With four branches across the city to manage, Oshawa Public Libraries’ CEO, Frances Newman, has a lot on her plate. But there’s always room for something more, in particular, she says, if it’s from Avanti Trattoria, the family-owned restaurant a short walk from the McLaughlin Branch.
“I love Italian food,” says Newman, whose story as CEO in Oshawa began seven years ago, having moved
from Nova Scotia, where she was CEO of the Annapolis Valley Regional Library.
Legend of Fazio’s, another Italian eatery in Downtown Oshawa, is also one to bookmark, she says.
For those looking to experience the city beyond its international flavourings, Newman suggests visitors put shows at the Regent Theatre and a tour of the “awesome” Canadian Automotive Museum on their book-it list.
The library, too, is also something to experience. Libraries have evolved from places of quiet contemplation to community hubs, offering services and activities for all who seek them out.
“Our great selection of quality programs is perfect for those looking for experiences; there's something for everyone. Whether you crave entertaining or educational in-person interactions or prefer to look for adventure or information from a book, ebook, movie, or one of our countless online resources, we've got you covered,” says Newman.
Those seeking coverage between the covers will see some non-intrusive changes at their branches around
Covid protocols; plexiglass at check-out and hand sanitizer stations, but Newman says things have mostly
returned to normal and library check-outs are almost back to pre-pandemic levels.
“During the mandated closures, we proved how essential and flexible libraries are. We have an extensive
eBook collection and online resources, as well as regular paper collection of books, so we were able to provide reading materials throughout the pandemic. We had also moved our programs, such as story time, online during the pandemic, but now most are back in person,” she says.
Those wishing to experience Oshawa public libraries in person can do so at any or all of the branches;
McLaughlin Branch is located at on Bagot Street opposite City Hall; Delpark Homes Centre Branch is on
Harmony, north of Coldstream; Northview Branch is on the corner of Ritson and Beatrice; and the Jess Hahn Branch is located in the Lake Vista plaza on Wentworth at Cedar.