Burlington Public Library (BPL) is launching a brand new service called Handpicked For You. It’s kind of like a personal shopping service, at the library. Customers can fill out a short form online or with a staff member to request a custom list or bundle of items.   

Considering BPL has a physical collection of around 240,000 unique books, movies, and music CDs spread across seven locations (plus more in its digital collection!), it’s easy to overlook many outstanding titles. Handpicked For You helps customers find just what they’re looking for and discover hidden gems they may not have found otherwise. 

“Our staff have exceptional knowledge of our collections, and they are trained to help people find items that suit their needs and interests,” says Frances Hanemaayer, Manager of North Branches and the leader behind BPL’s Handpicked For You service. “We want our customers to take advantage of this talent so they can enjoy a great read (or watch) every time.” 

To get started using this service, simply complete the Handpicked For You online form or ask staff for help submitting your request by phone or in person. You’ll list what you like to read, watch, or listen to, and library staff will take a deep dive into our collection to find titles they think you’ll love. As part of this personal “shopping” service, you select whether to receive a digital booklist of suggested titles or a bundle of items to pick up and check out at your preferred branch. 

How can Handpicked help you? 
 Handpicked For You makes BPL’s collection more accessible in a few ways: 

  • Customers who cannot readily visit the library can select a bundle of titles for a friend or family member to pick up on their behalf. 
  • Staff can help customers find immediately available hidden gems and discover new authors so they don’t have to wait for our most popular items. 
  • Customers looking for support on niche topics like welcoming a new sibling or managing incontinence can get discreet help to find useful resources. 

Of course, the library will continue to welcome people to visit in person and browse! With both options you can enjoy standing in a field full of wildflowers AND receive an artfully curated bouquet.  

This service is only available to Burlington Public Library members. Fill out the Handpicked For You form at bpl.on.ca/handpicked.