Inside Toronto Article- Lisa Rainford, Aug 11, 2011 – 12:20 PM

Librarian pushes forward with community meet and greet

Cancellation of Junction Arts Festival forces community to be creative

She had already booked a tent for September’s Junction Arts Festival when Pam Mountain, head librarian of Annette Public Library, learned the annual event had been cancelled this year.

Rather than return it, Mountain decided to go ahead with her own festival of sorts – a ‘community meet and greet’ in lieu of the festival on the library’s front lawn next month.

Mountain said this will allow the neighbourhood to learn more about the library and its services. Various groups promoting community activism and activities will also be part of the event slated for Saturday, Sept. 10.

There will be plenty for both young and old to enjoy, including storytelling for kids and a comedy show by local comedian and historian Neil Ross, said Mountain. Police and fire will also have a presence at the meet and greet, she said. Historical costumes and comic books will also be on display.

The West Toronto Junction Historical Society (WTJHS), whose archives are in the basement of the library, will be erecting its tent at the library too.

“Many of us have been dismayed that the Junction Arts Festival will be taking a hiatus for reshaping,” said Ross, WTJHS president. “Others welcome the opportunity for the community to organically explore a grassroots celebration.”

The WTJHS and Mountain are working to create an event that will reflect the importance of libraries and heritage in the community, said Ross. The historical society is eager to promote the Centennial of the Junction Shul, which it is partnering with the Congregation Knesseth Israel in September, and its upcoming Heintzman Month in October. Mountain invites community groups to get involved. If you have any ideas, or have any questions, contact the Annette Library and ask for Ann: 416-393-7521.