Located in the vibrant city of Oshawa, Ontario, the Oshawa Public Library (OPL) is a cornerstone of the community, offering a wealth of resources and services to its residents. With a history dating back to 1864, the library has evolved from a modest reading room to a modern, multi-branch system that serves a population of over 170,000 people. Whether you're a history buff, a genealogy enthusiast, or simply looking for a quiet place to read, OPL has something for everyone.
The story of the Oshawa Public Library begins in 1864 with the formation of the Oshawa Mechanics Institute. Located near the intersection of Simcoe Street and King Street in downtown Oshawa, this early library served as a reading room and offered free courses, along with a collection of books and magazines. William McGill served as the President, while William Dickson took on the role of librarian. This humble beginning laid the foundation for what would become one of Oshawa's most cherished institutions.
In 1906, thanks to the philanthropic support of Andrew Carnegie, a purpose-built library was constructed at the corner of Simcoe Street South and Athol Street West. At that time, Oshawa had a population of 5,500, and the new library housed 4,000 books. By 1948, the same building served a much larger population of 29,000 and housed over 30,000 books. The dramatic increase in both subscribers and circulation underscored the community's need for a larger, more modern facility.
Recognizing the growing needs of the community, plans were set in motion to expand the library services. In 1949, Oshawa Book Week highlighted the importance of a modern, well-equipped library. With the support of Col. R. S. McLaughlin, who donated $400,000, a new library building was constructed, providing ample facilities to meet the needs of the community. Today, the Oshawa Public Library operates four branches, each offering a variety of services and resources.
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The OPL system includes the McLaughlin Branch, the Northview Branch, the Jess Hann Branch, and the Delpark Homes Centre Branch. Each branch offers a unique experience, but all share a commitment to providing excellent service to the community. The McLaughlin Branch, for example, features a separate children's library, making it a popular destination for families. In the summer of 2010, the McLaughlin Branch underwent significant renovations, including the rebuilding of the south wing of the main floor, which reopened in the fall of that year.
One of the standout features of the Oshawa Public Library is its extensive collection of genealogy and local history resources. The McLaughlin Branch houses a large collection of pamphlets, photographs, maps, and texts detailing life and business in Oshawa, as well as information about early Ontario County and Durham Region. Of particular interest is the unique material pertaining to the McLaughlin family and the development and history of General Motors of Canada.
The Local History collection also includes a large genealogical reference collection, such as city directories dating back to 1923, telephone books, and microfilmed newspapers and census records. Microfilms of local newspapers like the Oshawa newspaper, as well as major newspapers like the Globe and Mail and Toronto Star, are available in the Local History Room at the McLaughlin Branch.
Beyond its impressive collections, the Oshawa Public Library serves as a hub of community activities. The library offers a wide range of programs for all ages, including storytimes for children, book clubs for adults, and technology workshops for seniors. Special events, such as author readings and cultural celebrations, are also a regular part of the library's offerings.
In addition to its physical collections, OPL has embraced the digital age with an expanding collection of online resources. The library now features over 30 databases covering a wide variety of topics, from academic research to recreational reading. This commitment to digital resources ensures that OPL remains a relevant and valuable resource for the community in the 21st century.
Visiting the Oshawa Public Library is a delightful experience, whether you're a long-time resident or a visitor to the city. Each branch has its own unique charm, but all share a welcoming atmosphere and a dedication to serving the community. The library's staff are friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to assist with finding the perfect book, researching a family history project, or navigating the library's digital resources.
In conclusion, the Oshawa Public Library is more than just a place to borrow books; it's a vital part of the community that enriches the lives of its residents. With its rich history, extensive collections, and commitment to serving the community, OPL is a must-visit destination in Oshawa. Whether you're exploring the local history collection, attending a community event, or simply enjoying a quiet moment with a good book, the Oshawa Public Library offers something for everyone.
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