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Step back in time to uncover Orillia's rich heritage at library

Special event at library on Saturday will feature local genealogy and history experts, tours of updated Local History Room and much more
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Library employee Jayne Turvey is running this Saturday's Genealogy and Local History Fair as part of Culture Day.

NEWS RELEASE
ORILLIA PUBLIC LIBRARY
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Get ready to step back in time and explore the fascinating history of Orillia and its surrounding areas!

On Saturday, Sept. 23, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., genealogy and local history experts will gather at the Orillia Public Library to celebrate the rich heritage of our community, as part of Culture Days.

As you stroll through the building, rub shoulders with representatives from esteemed institutions such as the Simcoe County Archives, the Ontario Genealogical Society (Simcoe County Chapter), the Orillia Museum of Art and History, FamilySearch Center, and more. Engage in captivating conversations with local historians and satisfy your curiosity by asking those burning questions about the "good old days" that have always intrigued you.

Get help starting your family tree and unearth the array of resources available at the Orillia Public Library, including Ancestry.com (Library Edition), a Genealogy Club and much more.

But that's not all! Take a tour of the recently updated Local History Room, where the pages of history come to life. Whether you reside in a charming century-old home and are yearning to unveil its secrets or your family's roots run deep in the area, you will find a treasure trove of fascinating tidbits awaiting your exploration.

Venture into our Makerspace and discover how to digitize cherished family movies, transform old negatives and slides into digital heirlooms, and immortalize your family tree on beautifully crafted wood.

And if you're planning a family reunion, the Cricut awaits to help you create customized t-shirts and mementos for your beloved family members. And while you’re at it, complete a scavenger hunt for a chance to win fantastic prizes that will surely add a sprinkle of excitement to your historical journey.

On the same day, the library is hosting two more exciting events that are perfect for the whole family!

Making Change is presenting a Cultural Mosaic Program in the Family Department from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Drop-in and let your creativity shine as you craft an original artwork on a 4x4 tile, expressing your own unique cultural heritage. These tiles will be part of a larger mosaic project called "Culture Across Our Country" and no prior art experience is necessary.

In addition, there will be a special traveling exhibit from the Canadian Language Museum on display which focuses on the diverse Sign Languages of Canada. This exhibit will be available for viewing from Sept. 23 to Sept. 28 and introduces you to six distinct Sign Languages used across our nation. Dive into the histories and unique characteristics of these languages through maps, videos, and illustrations.

Mark your calendar and head to the library on Saturday, Sept. 23 to celebrate our rich history and culture! Everyone welcome. For more information, please email the library at [email protected] or call 705-325-2338.
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