Adult Programs & Events
SPECIAL EVENTS
Each month we offer a variety of special events, from our Simcoe Author Talk series to One Book One New Tecumseth, from Simcoe Reads to gardening programs and more.
For more information about any of the FREE programs listed here, please contact Kim and her team at [email protected].
Simcoe Reads 2026
8 Libraries. 8 Books. 1 Winner.
Eight libraries are bringing their communities together with Simcoe Reads, a cover-to-cover conversation for adults.
Each library has selected a local champion and book they believe everyone in Simcoe County should read.
Game On! Scrabble Tournament
Tuesday, August 4
1:00-3:00 PM
D A Jones Branch, Beeton
Join us for friendly / not-so-friendly games of Scrabble! A brief “how to” and “rules” for the game will be provided. Players of all skill levels welcome. Refreshments and prizes! Ideal for ages Adult 18+
The Wisdom of Water: Honouring Nibi with Indigenous Teachings
Friday, August 14
D A Jones Branch, Beeton
1:00-3:00 PM
Join Colleen Moreau, an Indigenous facilitator, who brings over 20 years of experience, for a meaningful exploration of the importance of Nibi (water) in Indigenous cultures. Our time together will include a sharing opportunity with the Eagle Feather, homemade cedar tea tasting, and a hands-on water testing workshop to learn why clean water matters for all communities.
Please bring a clean container of water from home for testing.
Registration is required, and children ages 7–10 must attend with a registered adult.
This program is ideal for ages 7 years through to adult.
About Colleen Moreau
Colleen Moreau is an Indigenous woman from Georgian Bay with over 20 years of experience facilitating Indigenous workshops such as Dream catchers, beading, medicine bags, Ribbon Skirts, Ribbon Shirts, leather bags and more. She has over 10 years of experience facilitating Indigenous Cultural Sensitivity Training and Indigenous Appropriation vs Appreciation.
Paint Along: Night Sky
Thursday, August 20
6:00-7:30 PM
CRIC IdeaLab, Pam Kirkpatrick Branch, Tottenham
Join other beginner artists in a fun, social setting as you will follow an easy step-by-step tutorial on painting a night sky! Supplies are included, and each participant will take home a canvas of their artwork. Ideal for ages 18+.
Saturday Switch: Family Takeover!
Saturday, August 22: Pam Kirkpatrick Branch, Tottenham
Saturday, August 29: D A Jones Branch, Beeton
2:00-4:00 PM
Drop in and enjoy Nintendo Switch games with the whole family at the library!
Summer Sizzle Open Book Club: Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke
Thursday, August 27
6:00-7:45 PM
Memorial Branch, Alliston
Join us for our Summer Sizzle 2026 Open Book Club, to discuss Yesteryear, by Caro Claire Burke.
A traditional American woman, a beautiful wife and mother who sells her pioneer lifestyle of raw milk and farm-fresh eggs to her millions of social media followers, suddenly awakens cold, filthy, and terrified in the brutal reality of 1855—where she must unravel whether this living nightmare is an elaborate hoax, a twisted reality show, or something far more sinister.
A gripping, electrifying debut novel that is as darkly funny as it is frightening, Yesteryear is a gimlet-eyed look at tradition, fame, faith, and the grand performance of womanhood.
Library copies of the book will be provided to program registrants; staff will contact you to arrange pick-up.
Ideal for ages 18+.
Butterflies @ NTPL!
July 8 until they are ready to migrate
Open Hours
Pam Kirkpatrick Branch, Tottenham
Butterflies are back! Stop on by our Tottenham branch to view caterpillars grow and change into monarch butterflies. Learn what they eat in their different stages of life and take out books to learn more about these fascinating critters.
On social media, we will put out short blasts on when we are releasing monarch butterflies for their migration south.
**As they will be available in sight and easy reach, we ask to provide a safe distance from the enclosures, ensuring the insects are not at risk of stress. **
Regular Monthly Events
NTPL’s regular monthly programming for adults includes an assortment of clubs and groups such as book clubs, a writers group, genealogy club, poetry circle and more.
Beeton Cookbook Club
6:00-7:30 pm
DA Jones Branch, Beeton
Cookbook Club is not a cooking demonstration, but a chance for fellow foodies to share recipes, favourite cookbooks, and tips and tricks they have learned during their cooking experiences, all related to the month’s theme. It is low key, no pressure, and listeners are welcome too! We simply chat, learn, and have fun. Food contributions are welcome but not necessary; we share what we have. This is an adult program for ages 16+, maximum 15 registrants.
As always, a small selection of theme-related cookbooks will be on hold for Cookbook Club members at the Beeton D.A. Jones Branch one month before each meeting date. Feel free to stop by, ask for the cookbooks at the desk, and check out any you like. Staff in the Alliston and Tottenham branches are more than happy to help you find related cookbooks in those branches as well; again, just ask at the desk! Or feel free of course to use your own recipes, family recipes, other cookbooks you have access to or recipes off the Internet.
Beeton Cookbook Club is on summer vacation and will return in the fall.
Book Clubs @ NTPL
- Queer Book Club, first Tuesday of each month, Alliston Branch, 6:00-7:45;
- First Edition Book Club, first Wednesday of each month, Alliston Branch, 6:15-7:45;
- No. 1 Literary Book Club, first Thursday of each month, Tottenham Branch 6-8;
- Beeton Book Club, first Thursday of each month, Beeton Branch 6:15-7:45;
- O.W.L.S. Seniors’ Book Club, second Tuesday of each month, Alliston Branch, 10:15-12:15 (for those aged 50+);
- Tuesday Tea Book Club, second Tuesday of each month, Beeton Branch, 1:30-3:00;
- Second Edition Book Club, second Wednesday of each month, Alliston Branch 6:15-7:45;
- Men’s Book Club, third Tuesday of each month, Beeton Branch, 6:00-7:45;
- Kingsmere Retirement Suites Book Club, third Thursday of each month, Kingsmere Retirement Residence, 2:00-3:30 pm.
For more information or to join, please contact us at [email protected].
Fit and Fabulous: Tai Chi
10:30-11:45 am
Thursday, August 6
Memorial Branch, Alliston
Discover the benefits of Tai Chi with instructor Antonio Lampreia, a gentle form of exercise that combines slow, flowing movements with deep breathing and mindfulness. This class is designed for adults of all fitness levels and helps improve balance, flexibility, and mental focus, while reducing stress.
Spaces are limited, so please register early to reserve your spot.
Ideal for ages 18 +
Fit and Fabulous: Chair Yoga
1:30-2:30 pm
Wednesday, August 5
DA Jones Branch, Beeton
Wednesday, August 26
Memorial Branch, Alliston
Chair yoga for adults and seniors… a gentle and accessible way to improve strength, flexibility, balance, mindfulness and relaxation.
Fit and Fabulous: Yoga 101
6:30-7:30 pm
Wednesdays, August 5
DA Jones Branch, Beeton
Wednesdays, July 23, August 26
Memorial Branch, Alliston
Are you new to Yoga or looking to get back to your mat? Join us for this beginner Hatha practice; emphasis on slow movement, refining poses, mindful breathing, and connecting to self. If possible, bring your own mat and props; limited materials available.
Genealogy Club: Getting the Most from Your DNA Results
Wednesday, July 15
1:30-3:00 pm
Memorial Branch, Alliston
DNA has become another tool in the genealogist tool kit, but do we truly understand what it is, how it can help us and how to get the most from our results? This presentation provides an introduction to the topic of DNA, explaining the types of tests available, the laws surrounding them, a discussion about ethics and how to make the most of your results.
Presented by the Simcoe County Branch, Ontario Genealogical Society.
Ideal for ages 18+
In the Loop
Thursdays, June 25-September 3
6:30-7:30 pm
Pam Kirkpatrick Branch, Tottenham
A Group for teens and adults who enjoy crochet, knitting, sewing, rug hooking, …whatever – together!
Bring your own supplies.
All Ages
Drop-In!
Intro to Cricut
Thursday, August 13
5:30-7:00 pm
Thursday, July 16
2:00-3:00 PM
CRIC IdeaLab, Pam Kirkpatrick Branch, Tottenham
Fascinated by a Cricut machine and not sure where to start? Join us and learn the basics of using a Cricut machine and the Cricut Design Space. You also get to take home your own vinyl sticker!
Ideal for ages 18+.
Kanopy Club
7:00-8:30 pm
Zoom
Did you know you now have FREE access to thousands of online movies with your library card, via the Kanopy platform? Watch our pre-selected film at home each month in advance and then sign in to the Zoom program on the scheduled date and time to discuss. Think book club, but for film!
Moss (2017)
Thursday, August 6
A troubled teen finds solace in a mystical hiker on his 18th birthday, who helps him confront his mother’s death and reconnect with his detached father in this coming-of-age Southern Gothic tale.
Knitting and Needlework Circle
Mondays, July 27, August 10, 17, 24, 31
Tuesdays after long-weekend closures, August 4
1:30-3:30 pm
Memorial Branch, Alliston
Join us every Monday afternoon in the Alliston Memorial Branch with your knitting or other needlework project. Exchange ideas and information and learn tips and tricks from other knitters.
Drop-In!
Let’s Play: Chess
Wednesdays, July 29, August 5, 12, 19, 26
4:30-5:30 pm
Memorial Branch, Alliston
Wednesdays, July 29, August 5, 12, 19, 26
4:30-5:30 pm
Pam Kirkpatrick Branch, Tottenham
Come play chess at the library! We provide the boards and the how-to-play chess books, and you bring the moves. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, you’re welcome to drop in, meet other players, and enjoy a game.
Expect to share tips, learn new strategies, and play games with other drop-in players.
No registration required. All ages and skill levels welcome.
New Tecumseth Script Readers
Script Readers is on summer vacation and will return in the fall.
NTPL Seniors Social
NTPL Senios Social is on summer vacation and will return in the fall.
Ideal for ages 55 +
Queer and Ally Craft Club
Wednesdays, weekly
6:00-7:45 pm
Memorial Branch, Alliston
Let’s get crafty! Join us for this fun, casual program. Meet new friends and use your imagination in a dedicated safe space for 2SLGBTQ+ allies.
Bring your own supplies.
Drop-in!
Ages 18+
Queer Game Night
Tuesdays, July 28, August 25, September 22, October 27, November 24, December 22
6:00-7:45 pm
Memorial Branch, Alliston
Come hang out, make new friends, and play some games at Queer Game Night! A welcoming space for 2SLGBTQ+ folks and allies. Whether you’re into strategy, silliness or just good vibes, we’ve got something for everyone. Come solo or bring friends, all are welcome!
Drop-In!
Queer Game Night will be offered on the fourth Tuesday of each month.
Sew Simple: Introduction to Sewing
Friday, August 7
2:00-3:30 pm
CRIC IdeaLab, Pam Kirkpatrick Branch, Tottenham
Sew Simple is back! Join fellow beginners on learning the basics of using a sewing machine, and take home your first project. Supplies are included.
Ideal for ages 18+.
SPICE IT UP
First Wednesday of the Month: July 8 (closed Canada Day), August 5
All Branches
Spice It Up! is our updated take on Savour & Spice. On the first Wednesday of each month, Spice It Up! will be available at each of our NTPL locations for pickup. Each kit contains a sample of the month’s spice, as well as feature recipes and facts.
No registration is necessary, and kits can be picked up on a first come, first served basis. Spice It Up! kits will be available while supplies last at the circulation desk. Due to high demand, participants will be limited to in-person pickup of one kit per month.
Tech Time Tutorials:
Libby 101
Wednesday, August 12
6:00-7:45 pm
Memorial Branch, Alliston
Friday, August 14
2:00-4:00 pm
Pam Kirkpatrick Branch, Tottenham
Libby by OverDrive brings eBooks and Audiobooks to your fingertips. Join us for a hands-on tutorial on accessing the Libby by OverDrive app on your Android or Apple device, or libbyapp.com, and practice checking items out on your own device.
Ideal for ages 18+.
The Writers’ Room
Write, share and discuss in a supportive, creative writing community. Writers of all skill levels, genres and styles are welcome. Meeting format will vary, offering both open and themed writing circles and additionally offering structured workshops. Day and/or evening sessions will be offered in our Alliston and Beeton Branches. Registration required, drop-ins welcome space permitting.
Join us for:
August: Informal Sharing Circle
Tuesday, August 18
1:00-3:00 pm
Memorial Branch, Alliston
Wednesday, August 19
6:15-7:45 pm
D A Jones Branch, Beeton
Verbally share your writing sample (max 1200 words) and receive constructive feedback from the group. Suggested prompt: Fireflies
Ideal for ages 18+
Tech Assist
Do you have questions about technology? Do you have a new smartphone or tablet that you aren’t quite sure how to use? Need help getting started with Libby to access eBooks and audiobooks? Would you like to learn how to attend a library program using Zoom?
Request a 30-minute one-on-one session at any of our branches. Sessions are by appointment only. Call or email the branch you would like to have your appointment in.
Alliston:
705-435-5651
[email protected]
Beeton:
905-729-3726
[email protected]
Tottenham:
905-936-2291
[email protected]
Partnership Programs
NTPL has partnered with other community groups to bring you the following programs and services:
FOCUS Employment Services
(TAGS: Partnership Programs, Special Events, Employment)
NTPL has partnered with FOCUS Employment Services to offer drop in employment help at the Pam Kirkpatrick Branch in Tottenham on Tuesday afternoons from 1:30-4:30 pm. Drop in to meet with a team member from FOCUS and get help with:
| Services for Job Seekers | Services for Employers | Additional Services |
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For more information, contact FOCUS at: 1-877-513-0187 or [email protected]. You can also find them on social media (@FOCUSEmploymentServices). Click DISCOVER below to visit their website.
