Many more residents across Prince Edward County are flying the Canadian flag thanks to a recent initiative by Picton Home Hardware. Close to 200 flags were sold for the low price of only $10, less than cost and they were “flying” off the shelves at the Picton Branch as people want to show their Canadian pride. Thanks to a library patron, Judith van Bastelaar, who kickstarted the project.

“Elbows up” has become a Canadian rallying cry after actor Mike Myers used the phrase on the television show Saturday Night Live. Originally a hockey phrase, it’s now being used to mean protecting and supporting Canada.

Picton’s BIA is using the phrase for an upcoming sidewalk sale on Saturday, April 12. As they say, “Elbows up for Picton Main Street. Get your elbows up and celebrate our main street and its merchants.” You can find more about what they have planned on social media.

The library will be holding its spring book sale at the Picton Branch Saturday, April 12 from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. It will be a great opportunity to stock up on good books for great prices, and support the library while you’re at it.

People often generously want to donate their used books to the library and we are grateful when you think of us. With limited space to store the books, we accept donations only in advance of planned sales and ask that you are careful only to give us books that are in good condition and saleable. The next sale on the calendar is the annual Canada Day book sale at the Wellington Branch, which has been arranged by the Friends of the Wellington Library for many years.

If, like many people, you have Canada on your mind, don’t miss the annual County Library Authors Festival. Held in April, the festival highlights excellent established and up-and-coming Canadian writers and is a great way to find out about new Canadian books. This year’s slate of authors is varied and sure to have something for everyone – from Nita Prose discussing her latest book in the Maid series to Andrew Forbes discussing his book Field Work: On Baseball and Making a Living and more.

The County Reads debate returns as well with five readers each suggesting the one Canadian book you should read.

Find out more about festival offerings and tickets at peclibrary.org/festival or at any branch of the Library.

County Reads reveals defenders for April’s best book debate

EASTER BONNET DECORATING – The annual Easter Egg Hunt at the Milford Fairgrounds is always a popular event. On Saturday, April 19 from 10 to 10:45 a.m., you are invited to drop in to the Milford Branch Library to decorate your own hat. We’ll provide the decorating materials and assistance.

Prince Edward County offers six library branches with programs and services for everyone. Visit peclibrary.org to find upcoming events, the latest new books, and more.