Artist Vincent Van Gogh, in 1888, wrote to his brother Theo and said, “I often think that the night is more alive and more richly colored than the day.”

There is no question that we’re looking up at a very changed sky from Van Gogh, and not only because he was writing from France.

Since that time, artificial light sources have increased dramatically, leading to an increate in light pollution. This creates a brighter sky at night, which impacts not only our own enjoyment of the night sky but, according to National Geographic, also creates problems for wildlife and the environment and can wreak havoc on natural body rhythms and sleep.

Members of the Royal Astronomical Society of Belleville will speak about this topic at the Picton Branch Library on Saturday, Dec. 14 at 2 p.m. in the flex space on the lower level. In addition to talking about the effects of light pollution, they’ll discuss steps we can take to combat it.

We’re grateful to RASC Belleville for leading a successful series of talks at the library and I’m happy to be able to share that they will continue in the new year starting on Jan. 11. Topics are still being confirmed but might include constellations, historic astronomy, and Jupiter. You can find out more about their group at https://rascbelleville.ca/

For children interested in the natural environment, The South Shore Joint Initiative will join Saturday Storytime on Saturday, Jan. 18 at 10:30 a.m. with a presentation all about birds in winter. All are welcome.

As the cold begins to set in, there are thoughts of spring happening already. The annual County Library Authors Festival will return in April. Confirmed authors include Shane Peacock with a new book for adults As We Forgive Others, Bonny Reichert with How to Share an Egg, Dr. Samra Zafar with Unconditional, Marissa Stapley with The Lightning Bottles and Nita Prose with the Women Killing It Event discussing The Maid’s Secret.

Tickets will be available in February but why not mark your calendar now?  More authors and details to come. The County Reads debate will also return for another exciting evening of debate and discussion around Canadian literature as five County residents come together each championing the one Canadian book they think you should read. Last year’s winner was the incomparable Ernie Margetson with “Where the Falcon Flies” by Adam Shoalts.
Who are the debaters for 2025? Well– they haven’t been chosen yet! We’re taking nominations now. If you know a well read, excellent public speaker, why not nominate them?  The committee will consider all suggestions – send them to ceo@peclibrary.org

END OF YEAR GIVING
If you are planning for end -of-year giving, please consider the library. You can direct your gift to the branch, collection, or program of your choice and can donate in the name of a loved one, which makes a great holiday gift for the person who has everything. Donations over $20 are eligible for a tax receipt. Find out more at peclibrary.org/donate or contact Barbara Sweet at ceo@peclibrary.org

For more upcoming events – view the library calendar at peclibrary.org or pick up a copy of our Literally News Newsletter, at any branch, to see the whole schedule of events.

Six branches with programs and services for everyone. Visit peclibrary.org to find upcoming events, the latest new books, and more.