Programs at both branches:
For all ages
How can I use the Makerspace?
There are three ways to access the space: Beginner Trainings, Makerspace Club Sessions, and Workshops (see other tab on this page). Each option is designed to support different levels of experience and project needs. Makerspace sessions are currently offered on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and select Saturdays. Visit the MMPL Makerspace page to learn more specifics on the machines, training & other details.
Please visit our Program & Event Calendar to find the dates and details for upcoming Makerspace Beginner Trainings, Workshops and Club Sessions: https://mmpubliclibrary.libcal.com/calendar/mmplcalendar
Browse or search “Makerspace”
Almonte branch, drop-in Thursdays from 5:30-6:30, main library room, Beginners to experts welcome!
Yarn and needles provided or bring your own! Share skills, enjoy creating with others who love to knit and crochet.
Explore 3D Printing at the Library!
Learn how to 3D print your own creations. Discover how to: download model blueprints, use beginner-friendly design tools like TinkerCAD, and convert designs using Prusa Slicer for printing. After training, patrons aged 16+ sign a waiver and can book time to print independently with the library’s Prusa i3 MK3 that uses PETG filament.
Library staff do not print items for patrons — this program is all about empowering you to learn the full process. Support is available by appointment. To Book Time or Register for Training with our 3D printer and support volunteer, you can visit the Almonte Branch in person, email us at almonte@mmpubliclibrary.ca, or give us a call at 613-256-1037. Spots are limited!
Rules & Registration Process for 3D Printing Classes at the Library
We are excited to announce updated guidelines for our 3D Printing Classes, designed to help you confidently explore and use this amazing technology! Patrons must now print their own objects after completing 3D printing training, library staff will no longer print for you. For that reason, the minimum age for attending 3D printing classes is 16. What you need to know:
Class Format
One-on-one sessions available at the Almonte Branch by appointment only. Classes are open to ages 16+ and adults.
What You’ll Learn in the Class
During your 3D printing training, you’ll gain hands-on experience with:
3D Model Blueprints
Learn how to find and download 3D models online. Great free resources include Thingiverse.com, Printables.com, and Pinshape.com (for paid models).
3D Modeling Software
Interested in creating your own designs? Discover beginner-friendly tools like TinkerCAD, FreeCAD, and Blender. You’ll learn how to create and save designs as STL files, which define the shape of your object.
Slicing Software
STL files need to be converted into a format that the 3D printer can read. You’ll learn how to use Prusa Slicer to create G-code, the language that tells the printer what to do. Prusa Slicer is available for free and also installed on library computers.
Waiver & Independent Use
After completing the training, patrons must sign a waiver in order to use the 3D printer on their own and book time to print their projects.
Please note: Library staff and volunteers do NOT print items for patrons. The goal of this program is to help you learn how to print independently. Support and troubleshooting available by appointment only (circulation desk staff cannot help with 3D printing troubleshooting).
Need Extra Help?
Join our 3D Printing Group every first Sunday of the month at 11:30 AM at the Almonte Branch. It’s a great space to learn, share ideas, and meet other makers. More info below.
Cost
All classes and the use of the 3D printer and library-provided filament are completely free thanks to a generous donation by the Elizabeth Kelly Foundation.
Also – MMPL’s 3D printing group drop-in
All welcome – 1st Sunday of the month at 11:30am – Almonte Branch meeting room
Greeting makers! The purpose of the group is to bring together 3D print enthusiasts of all levels to collectively learn more about 3D printing. A group facilitator provides some structure to the group, but the group defines its own agenda. This is not a printing class: it’s a gathering of assorted like-minds where you learn by sharing. The session is scheduled for one hour but there is the option for follow up discussions afterwards.
All experience levels welcome.
The library’s printer is a Prusa i3 MK3 that uses PETG filament. FREE 3D printing at the library is funded by the Elizabeth Kelly Foundation www.ekellylibraryfoundation.ca. Click here for a few further resources.
Access seeds, grow, donate seeds to the library!
Quick facts
- The Seed Library is a community resource, open to everyone.
- You can access the Seed Library at both Pakenham and Almonte branches.
- Seeds are available while supplies last (usually March-June each year). We cannot guarantee stock or supply.
Find information about how the Seed Library works and how to save seeds here: https://www.missmillslibrary.com/seed-library/
For children & teens
Friday mornings @ Almonte branch
Baby time @ 10 am, Almonte branch is for infants up to 12 months with their parent/caregiver/grandparent. Expect a fast paced 1/2 hour of tummy tickles, songs and bouncy rhymes! No registration required.
Toddler story time @ 11 am, Almonte branch is a fast-paced 1/2 hour of interactive, favourite stories, rhymes and songs. For children aged 1-4 years accompanied by their adult. Older and younger siblings are welcome. No registration required.
Wednesday mornings @ Pakenham branch – Drop-in!
Toddler story time @ 10 am, Pakenham branch is a fast-paced 1/2 hour of interactive, favourite stories, rhymes and songs. For children aged 1-4 years accompanied by their adult. Older and younger siblings are welcome. No registration required.
Baby time @ 11 am, Pakenham branch is for infants up to 12 months with their parent/caregiver/grandparent. Expect a fast paced 1/2 hour of tummy tickles, songs and bouncy rhymes! No registration required.
Join a movement of caregivers aiming to read 1000 books to their little one before they reach kindergarten.
The concept is simple: Read a book (yes, you can repeat books) to your newborn, infant, and/or toddler. Track the titles with the goal of having read 1,000 books before your kiddo starts kindergarten. You can download reading log sheets HERE OR come into the library to pick up a special colouring reading log, created & shared by the amazing folks at the Smiths Falls Public Library (thank you!)
Every time you reach 100 books, come into the library with your log for a milestone picture and a prize for your little one!
For adults
Schedule a session with our technology tutor to get one-on-one support with your phone, tablet, e-readers and more! Because appointment spaces are limited and demand is high, only one (1) appointment per month is permitted. One-on-one tech tutor appointments are available at both branches.
To make an appointment, email the library, phone 613-256-1037 (Almonte), 613-624-5306 (Pakenham) or BOOK ONLINE. Valid library card required.
Whit Fraser in Conversation with Sharon Johnston
Thursday, 28 May @6:30PM – Almonte branch library
Whit Fraser launches his new memoir, From Ragged Ass Road to Rideau Hall: Stories of Canada. Join us for a compelling interview, as Whit shares stories from 50 years of reporting on nation-changing events & national turning points in a conversation with 55th viceregal consort, Sharon Johnston.
This event is free to attend & books will be available for sale & signing. Registration is required: https://mmpubliclibrary.libcal.com/event/4014890
Travelogues begin at 7pm, Almonte branch, 2nd Wednesday of the month
Seating is limited, registration is recommended (registration link is available a few weeks prior to the event).
13 May – Kenya–from the ground: A compelling journey in awareness and community with Arnie Francis – Travel with Almonte resident Arnie Francis and his travel friends as they discover how Canadians are making a difference in the lives of the poorest Kenyans.
To Register: https://mmpubliclibrary.libcal.com/event/4014343
The library thanks you for your continued support & enthusiasm for its programming. If you would like to present a Travelogue, or have questions, please contact Melanie at mbrunton@mmpubliclibrary.ca or call 613-256-1037
Afternoon film is on the 4th Wednesday of the month at 1 pm, Almonte branch
27 May at 1:00pm
FREE popcorn! No registration required. Room capacity is 30 people.
Almonte branch – every 2nd & 4th Wednesday of the month, from 4-5pm
This is a casual Spanish conversation group and not a Spanish class. Some knowledge of Spanish is required to participate. The group engages in normal topics of conversation such as the weather, food, traveling, hobbies, etc. to help with fluidity of spoken Spanish. Participants can bring questions about grammar and spoken Spanish, but grammar lessons won’t be offered, as you can study grammar elsewhere. Grammar & language resource sites:
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- Duolingo – fun, free app for learning languages
- Libby has Spanish e-books & e-audiobooks for all ages. Libby is a free download and borrowing is done with your MMPL library card. Here’s the FAQ on setting language preferences in Libby
For more information, please email Berta at babaroa@mmpubliclibrary.ca
Almonte branch – weekly drop-in – WEDNESDAY mornings @10:30am
The club practices French through games & discussion. There’s a club facilitator, but periodically other individuals take a turn facilitating. Intermediate knowledge of French is necessary, as this is not a beginner French class or for those wanting to learn grammar. Radio Canada/CBC’s https://mauril.ca/en often stimulates discussion.
A few online learning French resources suggested for beginners and others:
- Duolingo – fun, free app for learning languages
- Libby has French e-books & e-audiobooks for all ages. Libby is a free download and borrowing is done with your MMPL library card. Here’s the FAQ on setting language preferences in Libby
- Try Mauril, Radio Canada/CBC’s free language learning app
- Also: MMPL has a good collection of French titles for adults and children, ready to be borrowed!
Questions? Please email Jill at jmccubbin@mmpubliclibrary.ca
Chess Drop-in, Almonte branch
Interested in playing chess? Drop by Almonte branch, main library room, on Tuesday afternoons around 2pm! Generally, at this time, there are a few people playing chess, who welcome drop-ins!
This is an informal afternoon activity. Chess players may not be here every, single Tuesday afternoon. If you drop by one week and are on your own, try again the next week. Best of Luck! Learning & playing chess is worth the effort!
A chess set & board is available, shelved in the teen library room, Almonte branch.
Drop-in Friday mornings at 10 am, Pakenham branch
Learning Again in Almonte 2026 season
Visit Learning Again in Almonte’s website for dates, details, registration & to pay for COURSES – and for details about Learning Again in Almonte LECTURES, which are attendance by donation (registration is required). https://www.learningagainalmonte.ca
(Learning Again in Almonte is a partner of Mississippi Mills Public Library. MMPL staff do not administer these programs.)
Almonte Writers & Readers is an MMPL partner. Many of the groups’ events happen at the library: many others take place around the community.
For more information about what’s happening, where and when, with this group, please visit this website: www.almontereadersandwriters.org
