No money? No problem! Celebrating the month of love with your sweetheart doesn’t have to cost much when you have a library card. Here are some ways you can spend a date with your Valentine (or Palentine) using your Burlington Public Library membership.
This month, we are offering free Valentine’s Day postcards from our Ivan Cleaver historic postcard collection. We have restored a super cute card for you to share with your cutie. Pick one up at your local branch and stay to learn about all the fun ways you can celebrate with your sweetheart.
Enjoy a movie night in!
Your Burlington Public Library Card gives you access to thousands of movies online and on DVD. Borrow or download an old favourite, toss a bag of popcorn in the microwave, and cozy up on the couch.
We have two free streaming services you can use with your library card: Kanopy and Hoopla. They both offer award-winning documentaries, classic cinema, and modern hits.
Have a book swap date
Visit the library and go “secret shopping” with your pal or paramour. Give each other a few prompt words, then hit the stacks separately to search for a book that your love would love. Want to level up this option? Bring a thermos of coffee or hot cocoa and read your selections in our comfy seating areas once you’ve swapped. This would also be a great outing for pals!
Take an online cooking class together
Learning a skill together is a wonderful way to build on common interests. Your BPL card gives you access to free online courses through Kanopy’s The Great Courses collection including Mediterranean Cooking, Wine Tasting, and Spice Blends. Pick up some ingredients at the grocery store and learn alongside world-class chefs!
Take a step back in time
Flash back to a significant date in your relationship by browsing our collection of historic newspapers on microfilm. You can use our microfilm reader at Central Branch to view Burlington newspapers dating back to 1899! While you’re here, log on to Ancestry.com with our free in-branch membership and unearth your family history.
Make something special
Visit our MakerSpace at Central Branch to create a special Valentine’s gift together. You can print a favourite photo of the two of you using our large format printer or engrave it on a block of wood using our laser cutter. What about a puzzle piece keychain laser cut from acrylic to remind you both that you’re a perfect fit? Our MakerSpace operates on a cost-recovery model. Visit our MakerSpace webpage to plan your project and book time to visit.
In February and beyond, the library has plenty of activities to enjoy without spending a dime. Come solo, with friends, or as a couple—you’re always welcome.
