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DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260128T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260128T200000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081626
CREATED:20260105T195148Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T195148Z
UID:46522-1769625000-1769630400@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:North Shore Reads - A Couple's Story of Confronting Chronic Pain
DESCRIPTION:In the fifth North Shore Reads\, Kara Stanley\, Simon Paradis\, and Marsha Lederman discuss Stanley’s new book “The Pain Project.” \nTen years after her husband Simon Paradis’ catastrophic injury to his brain and spinal cord\, Kara Stanley and Simon decide to spend one year researching pain\, interviewing experts\, reading self-help books\, and trying new and alternative methodologies to deepen their knowledge and bring ease back into their lives. In “The Pain Project: A Couple’s Story of Confronting Chronic Pain\,” Kara and Simon record their honest conversations\, insightful journal entries\, and affectionate banter\, all while addressing the nature of suffering and pain. Ultimately hopeful\, their story is one for anyone looking for a greater understanding of pain as a phenomenon and in their own lives. \nDon’t miss this thoughtful online conversation between Kara\, Simon\, and The Globe and Mail’s Marsha Lederman on what it means when we confront pain head on. \nThe event is held virtually via Zoom webinar. A link will be emailed to you two days before to the email address you used to register.
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/north-shore-reads-a-couples-story-of-confronting-chronic-pain/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Author Discussion,Interview
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/North-Shore-Read-2026-The-Pain-Project.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="North Vancouver District Public Library":MAILTO:info@nvdpl.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260129T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260129T203000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081626
CREATED:20260107T201049Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T201049Z
UID:47252-1769715000-1769718600@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:An Evening with Leanne Betasamosake Simpson
DESCRIPTION:Sintering: Making new worlds across difference\n\nIn this talk\, we will think alongside water as a theorist\, a network and a map to making worlds beyond the one we have inherited from colonialism.\n–Leanne Betasamosake Simpson\n\nLeanne Betasamosake Simpson is one of the most compelling Indigenous voices of her generation. A Michi Saagiig Nishnaabeg writer\, musician\, and scholar\, Simpson will discuss her most recent book\, Theory of Water\, a national bestseller. Reimagining water’s relationship to all beings and life-forces\, Simpson envisions it as a catalyst for radical change\, capable of birthing a new world. \nWhether on stage or on the page\, Simpson invites audiences into layered worlds where Indigenous ways of knowing become powerful acts of resilience\, care\, and transformation. See her live at this insightful talk of discovery. Use the promo code SIMPSON10 for $10 off up to 4 tickets!
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/an-evening-with-leanne-betasamosake-simpson/
LOCATION:The Chan Centre for the Performing Arts\, 6265 Crescent Rd\, Vancouver\, BC\, V6T 1Z1\, Canada
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/IG_Vertical___Leanne_Betasamosake_Simpson.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260131T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260131T143000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081626
CREATED:20260105T195102Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T195102Z
UID:46528-1769864400-1769869800@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:The Strangest Thing in the Sea and Other Curious Adventures: an Afternoon with Author Rachel Poliquin!
DESCRIPTION:Celebrate Family Literacy Week at Parkgate Library! Join us for an exciting\, engaging\, and interactive program with a local author. \nRachel Poliquin explores wonder and curiosity in her gorgeous book The Strangest Thing in the Sea. During this program\, Rachel will share the inspiration behind the book – then invite participants to dive deep into a world of creative thinking and strangeness by creating their very own Strangest Thing in the Sea! \nRegistration is required. This program is best suited for children aged 6-12. Parents are highly encouraged to participate and to attend if they feel their child may benefit from extra support. \nRachel Poliquin is an award-winning author of children’s non-fiction. She mostly writes about animals and particularly likes exploring the overlooked heroes of the natural world. Her books include I Am Wind: An Autobiography\, This is Orange\, and The Museum of Odd Body Leftovers\, which has been translated into 10 languages. She lives in Vancouver\, Canada with her husband\, three children. \nFor more information\, please reach out to Parkgate Library at 604-929-3727 ext. 8166.
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/the-strangest-thing-in-the-sea-and-other-curious-adventures-an-afternoon-with-author-rachel-poliquin/
LOCATION:North Vancouver Public Library – Parkgate branch\, 3675 Banff Court\, North Vancouver\, BC\, V7H 2Z8\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Author Discussion
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Rachel-Poliquin-The-Strangest-Thing-in-the-Sea.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="North Vancouver District Public Library":MAILTO:info@nvdpl.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260203T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260203T200000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081626
CREATED:20260105T195019Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260112T181518Z
UID:46638-1770141600-1770148800@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:Follow Request: Speed Friending at the Library
DESCRIPTION:We know it is tough to make friends in Vancouver so we’re here to help. Bring your favourite book\, e-book\, graphic novel\, DVD\, podcast\, blog or zine to discuss at this fun\, casual\, in-person event at Central Library. \nYou’ll have six minutes with each person to chat about the item you brought and see if there is a friendship connection. At the very least you’ll have a bunch of interesting conversations with people who share similar interests. \nThis event is open to all with limited space available and takes place in the Alice MacKay room in the Lower Level of the Central Library. \nRegistration is required and this event will be capped at 100 people\, so sign up early!
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/follow-request-speed-friending-at-the-library/
LOCATION:Vancouver Public Library\, Central Branch\, 350 West Georgia St.\, Vancouver\, BC\, V6B 6B1\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Festival
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/FollowRequest-iStock-1179519546_2000px.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Vancouver Public Library":MAILTO:candie.tanaka@vpl.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260207T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260207T153000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081626
CREATED:20260122T012647Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260207T002539Z
UID:47461-1770472800-1770478200@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:Once Upon This Land: Archaeology in British Columbia and the Stories It Tells with Bob Muckle
DESCRIPTION:In celebration of Heritage Week later this month\, Bob Muckle\, author of Once Upon This Land: Archaeology in British Columbia and the Stories It Tells\, will talk about British Columbia’s fascinating array of famous and lesser-known archaeological sites\, from footprints left in mud on Calvert Island 13\,000 years ago to remnants of COVID-19 left behind in urban landfills. Bob is a registered professional archaeologist who taught for many years in the Department of Anthropology at Capilano University. \nFollowing this talk\, the District of West Vancouver Archivist Reto Tschan will moderate a question-and-answer period about Bob’s archaeological work. \nPresented in partnership with the District of West Vancouver Archives.
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/once-upon-this-land-archaeology-in-british-columbia-and-the-stories-it-tells-with-bob-muckle/
LOCATION:West Vancouver Memorial Library\, 1950 Marine Dr.\, West Vancouver\, BC\, V7V 1J8\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Author Discussion
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Once-Upon-This-Land_fc-low-res.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260210T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260210T200000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081626
CREATED:20260202T201359Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260202T201359Z
UID:47814-1770746400-1770753600@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:Comic Pre-Launch Party: Passing in the Night
DESCRIPTION:Meet the author of Passing in the Night by Meghan Kemp-Gee\, an upcoming graphic novel published by Vancouver-based publisher Shrimp Cult Press. Passing in the Night is the story of two star-crossed lovers\, Ruth and Gloria. Ruth is a busy medical resident with a sleep disorder… and Gloria transforms into a giant flying lizard every night. While they struggle to make things work at home\, Ruth gets kidnapped by fairies and anti-magic riots spread throughout the city. Can they make things work\, or are they just two ships passing in the night? \nPassing in the Night was illustrated by the incredibly talented\, GLAAD and RINGO-award-winning Lane Lloyd\, and lettered by Megan Praz\, the illustrator of One More Year an Contested Strip. \nThe event will include a talk by author Meghan Kemp-Gee\, snacks\, non-alcoholic drinks\, and an exclusive comic of the opening pages of the book for anyone who backs the Kickstarter. We are generously hosted by Cross & Crows Books\, a bookstore in East Vancouver that celebrates queer stories.
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/comic-pre-launch-party-passing-in-the-night/
LOCATION:Cross & Crows Books\, 2836 Commercial Dr\,\, Vancouver\, BC\, V5N 4C6\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Launch,Meet & Greet
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Front-Cover-With-Titles.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Shrimp Cult Press":MAILTO:peter@shrimpcultpress.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260210T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260210T200000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081626
CREATED:20260204T224419Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260204T224625Z
UID:48056-1770750000-1770753600@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:Incite: Maggie Helwig on Encampment
DESCRIPTION:Presented in partnership with Vancouver Public Library. \nThe housing crisis plaguing major urban centres across Canada has sent countless people into the streets. In spring 2022\, some of them found their way to the yard beside the Anglican church in Toronto’s Kensington Market\, where Maggie Helwig is the priest. They pitched tents\, formed an encampment\, and settled in. Known as an outspoken social justice activist\, Helwig has spent the last three years getting to know the residents and fighting tooth and nail to allow them to stay. \nWinner of the 2025 Toronto Book Award and one of CBC Books’ and the Globe and Mail’s best books of 2025\, Encampment tells the story of Helwig’s life-long activism as preparation for her fight to keep her churchyard open to people needing a home. More importantly\, it introduces us to the Artist\, to Jeff\, and to Robin: their lives\, their challenges\, their humanity. It confronts our society’s callousness in allowing so many to go unhoused and demands\, by bringing their stories to the fore\, that we begin to respond with compassion and grace. \nHelwig shares her story and theirs\, and answers audience questions\, with The Tyee senior editor Jackie Wong\, whose journalism on housing and drug policy has been published widely. Books will be for sale at the event by Upstart & Crow\, with a signing afterwards.
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/incite-maggie-helwig-on-encampment/
LOCATION:VANCOUVER PUBLIC LIBRARY – CENTRAL LIBRARY
CATEGORIES:Author Discussion,Reading
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/2026-Incite_Maggie-Helwig_social-banner-1536x768-1.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Vancouver Writers Fest":MAILTO:info@writersfest.bc.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260212T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260212T203000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081626
CREATED:20260122T012627Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260122T012627Z
UID:47509-1770922800-1770928200@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:Getting Juicy with Awfully Hilarious: Pillow Talk Book Launch
DESCRIPTION:Join us at Whistler Public Library as we celebrate the launch of the latest and greatest from the Awfully Hilarious Project. \nFirst\, we cringed and laughed at tales of first dates. Then\, we nodded in agreement and horror as we read Period Pieces. Now\, join us for the launch of the third book in the series\, Pillow Talk. This latest addition to the Awfully Hilarious series takes us into the bedrooms (and back-seats and bathrooms) of its writers with true tales of intimacy\, pleasure\, and desire. \nThis book launch will feature readings from several Pillow Talk contributors including Awfully Hilarious mastermind Heather Hendrie\, followed by a conversation moderated by Library Program Coordinator Jeanette Bruce and a Q&A with the audience.
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/getting-juicy-with-awfully-hilarious-pillow-talk-book-launch/
LOCATION:Whistler Public Library\, 4329 Main Street\, Whistler\, BC\, V0N 1B4\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Launch
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/pillow-talk-FC-web.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Whistler Writing Society":MAILTO:writers@whistlerwritersfest.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260217T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260217T203000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081626
CREATED:20260122T012540Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260122T012540Z
UID:47514-1771353000-1771360200@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:Book Launch: Pillow Talk
DESCRIPTION:Join us at the Squamish Public Library as we welcome back Heather Hendrie\, the Imagination Agent behind the Awfully Hilarious trilogy. We cringed and laughed at tales of first dates. We nodded in agreement and horror as we read Period Pieces. Now join us for the launch of the third book in the series\, Pillow Talk.
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/book-launch-pillow-talk/
LOCATION:Squamish Public Library\, 37907 2 Ave\, Squamish\, BC\, V8B 0A7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Launch
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/pillow-talk-FC-web-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260227T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260227T210000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081626
CREATED:20260202T201307Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260202T201307Z
UID:47868-1772218800-1772226000@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:Off the Shelf Poetry Reading Series: Jeff Derksen & Saba Pakdel
DESCRIPTION:Please join Simon Fraser University’s Department of English and Poetry in Canada for a poetry reading featuring Jeff Derksen and Saba Pakdel.\nDetails:\nDate/Time: Friday\, February 27th (Doors 6:30 PM; Event: 7-9 PM)\nLocation: SFU Belzberg Library at Harbour Centre campus (515 West Hastings St. Vancouver\, BC V6B 5K3)\nThis is a free event\, no RSVP required. \nBios: \nJeff Derksen: https://www.sfu.ca/english/people-dir/faculty/jeff-derksen.html \nSaba Pakdel: Saba Pakdel: Saba Pakdel is a poet\, migration literature scholar\, and PhD candidate in English at the University of Victoria. In her SSHRC-funded PhD research\, Saba specializes in migration study and climate-induced mobility with a focus on modern and contemporary literature\, exploring the experience of exile\, displacement\, and climate crises. Saba has published two poetry chapbooks In-Between (2022) and Un-Composed (2024) by above / ground press. \nVenue Accessibility:\nThis in-person event takes place at the SFU’s Harbour Centre campus. It is easily accessible by transit and near SkyTrain. The campus is wheelchair accessible and has wheelchair accessible washrooms. Gender neutral washrooms are also available.
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/off-the-shelf-poetry-reading-series-jeff-derksen-saba-pakdel/
LOCATION:SFU Harbour Centre\, 515 West Hastings Street\, Vancouver\, BC\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Reading
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/LiveWhale_Off-the-Shelf-Poetry-11.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="SFU English":MAILTO:englcmns@sfu.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260228T033000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260228T173000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081626
CREATED:20260219T004637Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260219T004637Z
UID:48399-1772249400-1772299800@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:"The Librarians" Film Screening at the Rio Theatre
DESCRIPTION:Celebrate Freedom to Read by joining local libraries for a screening of the 2025 documentary The Librarians\, a documentary film about how Librarians unite to combat book banning\, defending intellectual freedom on democracy’s frontlines amid unprecedented censorship in Texas\, Florida\, and beyond. \nThe screening will be accompanied by a short discussion with local librarians and academics on book bans and challenges in Canada\, including libraries’ roles in protecting freedom to read and how we can all defend our right to intellectual freedom. \nWhere: Rio Theatre (1660 East Broadway\, Vancouver\, BC\, V5N 1W1)\nWhen: Saturday\, February 28 (Doors 3:00 pm | Movie 3:30 pm) \nTickets & more info: $16 from the Rio Theatre:\nhttps://riotheatretickets.ca/events/40213-the-librarians-with-post-show-panel-discussion
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/the-librarians-film-screening-at-the-rio-theatre/
LOCATION:BC
CATEGORIES:Panel
ORGANIZER;CN="North Vancouver District Public Library":MAILTO:info@nvdpl.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260308T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260308T210000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081626
CREATED:20260302T211518Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260302T211518Z
UID:49266-1772996400-1773003600@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:Poetry Reading: Steven Seidenberg & Danielle LaFrance
DESCRIPTION:Poets Steven Seidenberg and Danielle LaFrance will be reading at People’s Co-op Bookstore on Sunday\, March 8th (7-9 PM).\nThis is a free event and all are welcome – no need to RSVP. \n*This event is hosted by Simon Fraser University’s Department of English. \nBios:\nWriter and artist Steven Seidenberg’s literary works include “Coda” (Omnidawn\, Fall 2025)\, “Anon” (Omnidawn\, 2022)\, and “plain sight” (Roof Books\, 2020). His books have been published in Italian\, Portuguese and Swedish translation\, and his most recent collection of photographs is “The Architecture of Silence” (Contrasto\, 2023). \nDanielle LaFrance is a poet and information malprofessional. Their commitments are anchored to liberation\, resistance\, and pleasure. LaFrance is the author of “species branding” (Capilano University Editions\, 2010)\, “Friendly + Fire” (Talonbooks\, 2016)\, “JUST LIKE I LIKE IT” (Talonbooks\, 2019)\, and “#postdildo” (Talonbooks\, 2022). LaFrance co-created the reading and journal series\, “About a Bicycle” and currently collaborates on the ad infinitum intertextual sound project\, “Yes\, Sydo”. Their forthcoming book\, “Verbal Violence” (Talonbooks\, 2026) is a scrolling indictment of the professional managerial class. They reside as a guest on still occupied and still unceded xʷməθkʷəy̓əm\, Sḵwx̱wú7mesh\, and səlilwətaɬ lands.
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/poetry-reading-steven-seidenberg-danielle-lafrance/
LOCATION:People’s Co-op Bookstore\, 1391 Commercial Drive\, Vancouver\, BC\, V5L 3X5\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Author Discussion,Reading
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/LiveWhale_March-8-2026.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="SFU English":MAILTO:englcmns@sfu.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260310T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260310T170000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081626
CREATED:20260202T201217Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260202T201217Z
UID:47923-1773158400-1773162000@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:FREE Celebration of Outdoor Learning Books!
DESCRIPTION:Free 1 Hour Virtual Event on Tues\, March 10 at 4pm Pacific / 7pm Eastern Time. \nSign-up: https://outdoorlearning.com/event/spring-celebration-2026/ \nThis is a chance to connect virtually with the incredible authors of some of the outdoor and Indigenous learning resources that we’ve published. Get the inside scoop\, hear about their process\, and ask any burning questions. Offered in partnership with Take Me Outside\, with the support of Creative BC. \nAll registrants will receive: \n– Access the recording\, in case you can’t join us live\n– Access a Certificate of Attendance\n– Entry for some great prizes!\n– A 15% coupon code to access any of the books featured! \nOffered in partnership with Take Me Outside\, with the support of Creative BC.
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/free-celebration-of-outdoor-learning-books/
LOCATION:https://outdoorlearning.com/event/spring-celebration-2026/\, Virtual Event
CATEGORIES:Author Discussion,Day of Celebration,Panel
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Outdoor-Learning-Spring-Celebration-2026-Feature-CreativeBC.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Outdoor Learning School &amp%3B Store":MAILTO:info@outdoorlearning.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260314T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260314T160000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081626
CREATED:20260219T004611Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260219T004611Z
UID:48881-1773496800-1773504000@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:Nowruz Celebration: The Seven Trials of Esfandiyar
DESCRIPTION:Hear the story of the Seven Trials of the hero Esfandiyar from the famous The Persian Book of Kings! In true heroic fashion\, Esfandiyar fights beasts\, a dragon\, and a mythical bird to get to the fortress where his sisters are held captive. But not all tasks require raw strength and battle skills – heroism is about more than that. \nLed by Dr. Alexandra Hoffmann\, this event guides you through the story\, featuring an engaging lecture\, recitations in Persian and English\, and an opportunity for discussion. Join us for an afternoon immersed in Persian culture and learn how one might go about killing a dragon. \n— \nThis event is organized by Ashkan Doremami\, BA (UBC)\, Dr. Alexandra Hoffmann\, Assistant Professor of Classical Persian Literature and Culture (UBC)\, and Dr. Hessam Dehghani\, Assistant Professor of Teaching in Persian Language and Culture (UBC). \nIn partnership with the Persian Language and Culture Program at UBC and PanBeh Bookstore (Vancouver’s Iranian/Persian Bookstore).
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/nowruz-celebration-the-seven-trials-of-esfandiyar/
LOCATION:VANCOUVER PUBLIC LIBRARY – CENTRAL LIBRARY
CATEGORIES:Festival
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Nowruz-BE.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Vancouver Public Library":MAILTO:candie.tanaka@vpl.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260317T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260317T203000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081626
CREATED:20260112T181458Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260112T181458Z
UID:46648-1773770400-1773779400@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:Giant Silent Reading Party
DESCRIPTION:Are you feeling a little lonely and finding it hard to connect with community in Vancouver? The Vancouver Public Library is hosting a giant silent reading party to get ready for Spring. Our “silent reading party” at the library is a social space where patrons can sit together and read in silence. Do you have book that you just haven’t had the time or space to finish? Well now you can finally bring that book out of your giant TBR pile to the table! \nEnjoy the company of other book lovers with a 30 minute conversational social afterwards to discuss what you are reading. \n*Light refreshments will be provided.
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/giant-silent-reading-party-2/
LOCATION:Vancouver Public Library\, Central Branch\, 350 West Georgia St.\, Vancouver\, BC\, V6B 6B1\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Festival
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/giantsilentreadingparty2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Vancouver Public Library":MAILTO:candie.tanaka@vpl.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260325T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260325T210000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081626
CREATED:20260325T180721Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260325T180721Z
UID:50469-1774465200-1774472400@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:Somatic Writing Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a Somatic Writing Workshop with poet\, spoken word artist\, playwright\, and somatic psychotherapist\, Mercedes Baines. Somatics refers to a practice of listening to and dialoguing with the body (which includes the mind and imagination)\, allowing us to be present with ourselves. \nAs local and global injustices continue\, our bodies also continues to process\, reflect\, and protect. Embodied practices like somatic writing can create a space for grounding\, connection\, and attuned creative expression. Our bodies are a rich and prolific source of inspiration – Images\, memories\, dreams\, and metaphors are within and tapping into them can build our capacity to see ourselves and each other with deep care and empathy. \nResmaa Menakem says\, “The body\, not the thinking brain\, is where we experience most of our pain\, pleasure\, and joy\, and where we process most of what happens to us. It is also where we do most of our healing\, including our emotional and psychological healing. And it is where we experience resilience and a sense of flow.” \nWhether you are a seasoned writer or this is your first time participating in this type of workshop\, you are welcome to join us for an evening of sensory\, celebratory & sacred expressions. You will be invited to engage with breath awareness\, mindfulness\, visualization\, memory\, dreams\, sound\, drawing\, gentle movement all to foster a deeper attunement to the flow of images and ideas that are already within you and waiting for you to express. \nMore about our facilitator\, Mercedes: \nMercedes Baines (MA\, RCC\, CCC\, CAC) (she/her) is a poet\, spoken word artist\, playwright\, performer & somatic psychotherapist\, facilitator\, instructor and consultant in private practice – Mind In Body. She identifies as a multi-racial\, fat-bodied\, queer-adjacent\, cis-gendered woman who is a trauma survivor and lives with chronic illnesses. Her work in the performing arts (SFU School for Contemporary Arts)\, her training in somatic trauma healing (Somatic Experiencing) and Adlerian Therapy (Adler University)\, influences her approach to psychotherapy & her understanding of the healing and the creative processes. She is passionate about exploring ways to inhabit both the healing & creative processes in ways that are collaborative\, embodied & integrated. Her themes of creative practice include: intersection of race & sexuality; identity & race politics; eroticism & sensuality; body image; fantasy; gender identity; intimate relationships & trauma. Her areas of psychotherapy practice include: body image; trauma; living with a life-altering (chronic)/life-threatening illness; disordered eating; depression; anxiety; grief and loss; identity; sexuality and issues related to race and culture. \nThis event takes place in our Literary Lounge at 712 A 12th Street\, in so called new west – the stolen and occupied territories of the Halq’eméylem speaking peoples. \nPlease register on our website : https://wildfiresbookshop.com/events/49928
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/somatic-writing-workshop/
LOCATION:wildfires bookshop\, 712 A 12th Street\, New Westminster\, BC\, V3M 4J6\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/67.png
ORGANIZER;CN="wildfires bookshop":MAILTO:Wildfiresbookshop@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260325T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260325T210000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081626
CREATED:20260325T202744Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260325T202744Z
UID:50716-1774465200-1774472400@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:Somatic Writing Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a Somatic Writing Workshop with poet\, spoken word artist\, playwright\, and somatic psychotherapist\, Mercedes Baines. Somatics refers to a practice of listening to and dialoguing with the body (which includes the mind and imagination)\, allowing us to be present with ourselves. \nAs local and global injustices continue\, our bodies also continues to process\, reflect\, and protect. Embodied practices like somatic writing can create a space for grounding\, connection\, and attuned creative expression. Our bodies are a rich and prolific source of inspiration – Images\, memories\, dreams\, and metaphors are within and tapping into them can build our capacity to see ourselves and each other with deep care and empathy. \nResmaa Menakem says\, “The body\, not the thinking brain\, is where we experience most of our pain\, pleasure\, and joy\, and where we process most of what happens to us. It is also where we do most of our healing\, including our emotional and psychological healing. And it is where we experience resilience and a sense of flow.” \nWhether you are a seasoned writer or this is your first time participating in this type of workshop\, you are welcome to join us for an evening of sensory\, celebratory & sacred expressions. You will be invited to engage with breath awareness\, mindfulness\, visualization\, memory\, dreams\, sound\, drawing\, gentle movement all to foster a deeper attunement to the flow of images and ideas that are already within you and waiting for you to express. \nMore about our facilitator\, Mercedes: \nMercedes Baines (MA\, RCC\, CCC\, CAC) (she/her) is a poet\, spoken word artist\, playwright\, performer & somatic psychotherapist\, facilitator\, instructor and consultant in private practice – Mind In Body. She identifies as a multi-racial\, fat-bodied\, queer-adjacent\, cis-gendered woman who is a trauma survivor and lives with chronic illnesses. Her work in the performing arts (SFU School for Contemporary Arts)\, her training in somatic trauma healing (Somatic Experiencing) and Adlerian Therapy (Adler University)\, influences her approach to psychotherapy & her understanding of the healing and the creative processes. She is passionate about exploring ways to inhabit both the healing & creative processes in ways that are collaborative\, embodied & integrated. Her themes of creative practice include: intersection of race & sexuality; identity & race politics; eroticism & sensuality; body image; fantasy; gender identity; intimate relationships & trauma. Her areas of psychotherapy practice include: body image; trauma; living with a life-altering (chronic)/life-threatening illness; disordered eating; depression; anxiety; grief and loss; identity; sexuality and issues related to race and culture. \nThis event takes place in our Literary Lounge at 712 A 12th Street\, in so called new west – the stolen and occupied territories of the Halq’eméylem speaking peoples.
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/somatic-writing-workshop-2/
LOCATION:wildfires bookshop\, 712 A 12th Street\, New Westminster\, BC\, V3M 4J6\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Posters-45.png
ORGANIZER;CN="wildfires bookshop":MAILTO:wildfiresbookshop@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260327T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260327T210000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081626
CREATED:20260316T180310Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260316T180310Z
UID:49604-1774638000-1774645200@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:Off the Shelf Poetry Reading Series: Joanne Leow\, Garth Martens\, Fenn Stewart
DESCRIPTION:Please join Simon Fraser University’s Department of English and Poetry in Canada for a poetry reading featuring our own Professor Joanne Leow and Garth Martens and Fenn Stewart. \nDetails:\nDate/Time: Friday\, March 27th (Doors: 6:30 PM; Readings 7-9 PM)\nLocation: SFU Belzberg Library (SFU’s Harbour Centre campus – 515 West Hastings St.\, Vancouver) \n*Free Event; No RSVP Required \nBios \nJoanne Leow is Associate Professor and Tier 2 Canada Research Chair of Transnational and Decolonial Digital Humanities in the Department of English at Simon Fraser University. Her first academic monograph is “Counter-Cartographies: Reading Singapore Otherwise” (Liverpool University Press\, 2024). She is also a poet and writer with a debut collection of poetry\, “Seas Move Away” (Turnstone Press\, 2022) and a forthcoming creative-critical memoir\, “Exhumations: In the Body of a Petrostate” (Alchemy Press\, 2026). Her writing and research interests lie at the intersections of spatial theory\, decolonial theory\, postcolonial studies\, transnational and diasporic texts\, and the environmental humanities. \nGarth Martens is the author of “Prologue for the Age of Consequence” and “Who Else in the Dark Headed There”. For his first book\, he was a finalist for the Governor General’s Literary Award for Poetry. He is also a past winner of the Bronwen Wallace Award for Emerging Writers. His poetry appears in “Dark Mountain Project”\, “Poetry Ireland”\, “Hazlitt”\, “This Magazine”\, “Vallum”\, “Fiddlehead”\, and “Best Canadian Poetry”. He is a co-founder and producer for Palabra Flamenco\, a literary flamenco ensemble that joins traditional flamenco dance and music with poetry and oral storytelling. He lives in Victoria\, BC. \nFenn Stewart is the author of three chapbooks and two poetry collections – “Better Nature”\, which was longlisted for the 2018 Gerald Lampert Memorial Prize\, and “women & roosters” (2025). A former editor of “The Capilano Review”\, she continues to serve on the magazine’s editorial board. Stewart holds a PhD in social and political thought\, and teaches literature and writing at Capilano University. She lives with her kids\, and the world’s nicest dog\, on unceded Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish)\, xʷməθkʷəỷəm (Musqueam)\, and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) territories. \nVenue Accessibility \nThis in-person event takes place at the SFU’s Harbour Centre campus. It is easily accessible by transit and near SkyTrain. The campus is wheelchair accessible and has wheelchair accessible washrooms. Gender neutral washrooms are also available.
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/off-the-shelf-poetry-reading-series-joanne-leow-garth-martens-fenn-stewart/
LOCATION:SFU Harbour Centre\, 515 West Hastings Street\, Vancouver\, BC\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Author Discussion,Reading
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/LiveWhale_Off-the-Shelf-Poetry-12.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="SFU English":MAILTO:englcmns@sfu.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260331T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260331T193000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081626
CREATED:20260316T180303Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260316T180303Z
UID:49559-1774980000-1774985400@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:Introducing Cee Peal: 2026 Indigenous Storyteller in Residence
DESCRIPTION:Vancouver Public Library is honoured to introduce Cee Peal as the 2026 Indigenous Storyteller in Residence. \nCee Peal is a theatre artist from the Nisga’a First Nation of Northern B.C. now working in Vancouver on the traditional\, unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam)\, səl̓ilwətaɁɬ (Tsleil-waututh)\, and sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) peoples. He brings to the library his experience in storytelling\, theatre\, and image making\, drawing from his experience working as an actor\, director\, writer\, dancer\, and producer on various productions. With a passion for Indigenous studies and cultural evolution\, Cee is also the Indigenous outreach coordinator at The Cultch and the artistic associate at The Carmen Arts Group. \nTo find out more about Cee’s residency and keep up with his upcoming events visit: vpl.ca/storyteller \n— \nJoin us for an evening of storytelling and theatre magic with special guests.
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/introducing-cee-peal-2026-indigenous-storyteller-in-residence/
LOCATION:VANCOUVER PUBLIC LIBRARY – CENTRAL LIBRARY
CATEGORIES:Author Discussion,Launch,Meet & Greet
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/ISIR2026_CeePeal.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Vancouver Public Library":MAILTO:candie.tanaka@vpl.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260402T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260402T200000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081626
CREATED:20260122T012505Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260219T004457Z
UID:47682-1775152800-1775160000@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:A Reading of the Play El Terremoto by Christine Quintana
DESCRIPTION:Touchstone Theatre and Neworld Theatre present a reading of Christine Quintana’s play El Terremoto (directed by Daniela Atiencia). Twenty years have passed since the three Jurado sisters lost their parents\, and life just seems to continue on in their East Vancouver home. \nA birthday party\, a failed proposal\, and a missed connection fill the days and months until an earthquake nearly destroys the city\, and brings forward a shocking turn of events that splits their world wide open.\nFrom Dora-Award winning playwright Christine Quintana\, El Terremoto is a dramatic comedy about how nothing matters\, so everything matters. \n— \nA reading of the full play by seven actors will be followed by a Q & A at the end of the evening with Christine and Lois Anderson\, Artistic Director at Touchstone Theatre. Join us for a delightful evening around the playwriting process and the Canadian theatre scene. \n— \nChristine Quintana was born in Los Angeles to a Mexican-American father and a Dutch-British-Canadian mother. Christine grew up as a grateful visitor to the unceded lands of the Musqueam\, Squamish\, and Tsleil-Waututh people. Christine is an actor\, playwright\, and co-Artistic Producer of Delinquent Theatre. In these various capacities\, she has worked with Tarragon Theatre\, the Arts Club Theatre Company\, Bard on the Beach\, The Cultch\, Neworld Theatre\, Electric Company Theatre\, Rumble Theatre\, Boca Del Lupo\, Zee Zee Theatre\, Caravan Farm Theatre\, Ruby Slippers Theatre\, Playwrights Theatre Centre\, Pi Theatre\, Gateway Theatre\, Nightswimming Theatre\, Belfry Theatre\, Stratford Festival\, and Young People’s Theatre. Her writing has been translated and performed in Spanish\, French\, ASL\, and German. \nDaniela Atiencia is the Artistic Associate at Touchstone Theatre and a Latinx-Canadian theatre artist born and raised in Colombia. She has a BFA in Theatre Performance from SFU’s School for the Contemporary Arts and holds an MFA in Theatre Directing from The University of Essex’s East 15 Acting School. Daniela works as a freelance bilingual director\, dramaturg\, and deviser. She is currently working on two plays as co-director for Neworld and Green Thumb Theatre. As dramaturg she is collaborating with Tetsuro Shigematsu’s latest commissioned piece for Pacific Theatre and served as Spanish Language Dramaturg for Made in Canada\, an agricultural podcast for rice & beans theatre. She is currently based on the Unceded Territories of the Coast Salish peoples (Vancouver\, B.C.) and her work recently earned her a finalist spot in the RBC Rising Star Emerging Director award. \nLois Anderson is the Artistic Director of Touchstone Theatre\, and an Adjunct Professor at UBC in the Department of Theatre and Film. She won the Jessie Award for Best Direction (Pericles\, Bard on the Beach) and the 2019 Critic’s Choice Award for Innovation (Lysistrata). She has worked extensively in Canada and Australia and has been an artistic associate with The National Arts Centre most recently directing You Used to Call Me Marie by Tai Amy Grauman.
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/a-reading-of-the-play-el-terremoto-by-christine-quintana/
LOCATION:Vancouver Public Library\, Central Branch\, 350 West Georgia St.\, Vancouver\, BC\, V6B 6B1\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Author Discussion,Panel
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/El_TERREMOTO-image_760X380.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Vancouver Public Library":MAILTO:candie.tanaka@vpl.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260407T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260407T203000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081626
CREATED:20260325T202632Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260325T202632Z
UID:50861-1775588400-1775593800@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:Robin Ducharme Launches Real Love Ready
DESCRIPTION:Victoria author Robin Ducharme launches Real Love Ready: A Guide to Relational Literacy\, a compassionate guide to the knowledge\, skills\, and daily practices that help us love with greater intention\, truth\, and heart. In conversation with Monique Gray Smith\, Robin will discuss how relational literacy can shape the way we connect in love\, friendship\, family\, work\, and self. A meaningful literary event for readers drawn to relationships\, personal growth\, and conscious living.
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/robin-ducharme-launches-real-love-ready/
LOCATION:Bolen Books\, #111-1644 Hillside Ave.\, Victoria\, BC\, V8T 2C5\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Author Discussion,Book Signing,Interview
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot-2026-03-24-at-9.49.30-PM.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Real Love Ready":MAILTO:kate@realloveready.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260409T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260409T203000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081626
CREATED:20260325T202541Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260325T202541Z
UID:50795-1775759400-1775766600@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:Book Launch - Exhumations: Inside the Body of a Petrostate by Joanne Leow
DESCRIPTION:Join Simon Fraser University English Professor Joanne Leow at Enabling Arts on April 9th (6:30 PM) for the launch of her new book\, “Exhumations: Inside the Body of a Petrostate”. \nAbout the book: \n“What unknowable chemical? How slow was this damage\, this violence? … How might any of us stay uncontaminated by all that was built around us?” \n“Exhumations: In the Body of a Petrostate” oscillates between an unflinching critique of the author’s birth island\, Singapore\, and a memoir of grief and illness. Seeing our porous bodies as part of a contaminated and compromised system based on extraction\, violence\, and political repression\, the book asks what must be made visible in our current moment. Drawing on her experience as a journalist for state-controlled media\, and her current work as a scholar\, Leow explores histories of activism\, censorship\, weapons manufacturing\, terraforming\, and petroleum refining. In doing so\, she traces the networks of power that link Singapore with Canada\, Palestine\, Israel\, England and beyond. Drawing on art\, photography\, film\, and literature\, she considers how they exhume truths that cannot otherwise be told. \nThis launch is supported by Simon Fraser University’s Department of English and the David See-chai Lam Centre\, and Alchemy/Knopf. \nProfessor Leow will be joined by UBC Professors Phanuel Antwi and John Paul (JP) Catungal. (Photo Credits: for Joanne Leow: sweetmoon photography; for Phanuel Antwi: Rachel Topham Photography) \nSpeaker Bios: \nJoanne Leow grew up in Singapore and now lives on the unceded traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam)\, Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish)\, and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations. She is Associate Professor and Canada Research Chair of Transnational and Decolonial Digital Humanities at Simon Fraser University. She is the author of the academic monograph\, “Counter-Cartographies: Reading Singapore Otherwise” (Liverpool University Press\, 2024) and the poetry collection\, “Seas Move Away” (Turnstone Press\, 2022). Her creative work and research lie at the intersections of the environmental humanities\, transnational and diasporic cultural production\, global Asia studies\, autotheory\, and decoloniality. \nJP Catungal (he/him) is Assistant Professor in the Institute for Gender\, Race\, Sexuality and Social Justice\, and Co-Director of the Centre for Asian Canadian Research and Engagement at the University of British Columbia. A queer\, first generation\, Filipinx Canadian scholar\, JP’s research\, teaching and public facing works are in conversation with critical human geography and feminist and queer of colour theories and methods. He is particularly interested in how migrant\, racialized and LGBTQ+ communities address their experiences of marginalization in the fields of sexual health\, education and social services. He has served as co-edit of the book\, “Filipinos in Canada: Disturbing Invisibility”\, as well as special journal issues for “BC Studies”; “ACME: International Journal of Critical Geographies”; “TOPIA: Canadian Journal of Cultural Studies”; and “Alon: Journal for Filipino American and Diasporic Studies”. He received the Killam Teaching Prize at UBC. \nPhanuel Antwi is an artist\, an organizer\, a curator\, and an associate professor of English concerned with race\, poetics\, movements\, intimacy\, and struggle. He works with text\, dance\, film\, and photography to intervene in artistic\, academic\, and public spaces. Dr. Antwi holds a Canada Research Chair in Black Arts and Epistemologies at the University of British Columbia\, Canada. His recent book\, “On Cuddling: Loved to Death in the Racial Embrace”\, is from Pluto Press. He’s currently finishing a manuscript called “Currencies of Blackness: Faithfulness\, Cheerfulness and Politeness in Settler Writing”.
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/book-launch-exhumations-inside-the-body-of-a-petrostate-by-joanne-leow/
LOCATION:Enabling Arts\, 104-343 Railway Street\, Vancouver\, British Columbia\, V6A 1A4\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Author Discussion,Launch
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Eventbrite_Exhumations.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="SFU English":MAILTO:englcmns@sfu.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260411T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260411T150000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081626
CREATED:20260316T180346Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260316T180346Z
UID:50119-1775912400-1775919600@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:Creator Series: Audio Plays with Cee Peal
DESCRIPTION:An audio play or drama relies strictly on acoustical elements for its manifestation. There are no visual components involved as it’s rendered strictly with dialogue\, sound effects\, and music alone to help listeners imagine the characters and the story. \nAt this fun and playful event\, participants are invited to create a live audio play with Cee Peal the 2026 Indigenous Storyteller in Residence. \nHave you ever imagined yourself as an actor? If so\, then maybe you’d like to use your voice to recite dialogue (practice with our play collection on level 6 at Central Library). Would you like to be more in the background and create noise with sounds effects? Do you know about the Inspiration Lab and its resources? If you are a musician\, you may want to experiment with a new instrument. In that case\, we want to make sure that you are aware of our Musical Instrument Lending Library. If you’d prefer to sit and watch that is wonderful too as audience members are a huge part of this event as well. \n— \nCee Peal is a theatre artist from the Nisga’a First Nation of Northern B.C. now working in Vancouver on the traditional\, unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam)\, səl̓ilwətaɁɬ (Tsleil-waututh)\, and sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) peoples. He brings to the library his experience in storytelling\, theatre\, and image making\, drawing from his experience working as an actor\, director\, writer\, dancer\, and producer on various productions. With a passion for Indigenous studies and cultural evolution\, Cee is also the Indigenous outreach coordinator at The Cultch and the artistic associate at The Carmen Arts Group. \nTo find out more about Cee’s residency and keep up with his upcoming events visit: vpl.ca/storyteller
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/creator-series-audio-plays-with-cee-peal/
LOCATION:VANCOUVER PUBLIC LIBRARY – CENTRAL LIBRARY
CATEGORIES:Meet & Greet,Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/CeePealCreatorSeries.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Vancouver Public Library":MAILTO:candie.tanaka@vpl.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260411T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260411T210000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081626
CREATED:20260316T180352Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260316T180352Z
UID:50380-1775934000-1775941200@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:Phyllis Webb Memorial Reading featuring Wayde Compton
DESCRIPTION:Please join SFU English and Poetry in Canada for the 4th annual Phyllis Webb Memorial Reading featuring award recipient Wayde Compton. This free event takes place on Saturday\, April 11th (Doors: 6:15 PM; Event: 7-9 PM) at SFU Harbour Centre (Room 1400). Special guests include Cecily Nicholson and Courtenay Chan. Hosted by Professor Stephen Collis. Enjoy readings\, discussion\, and light refreshments. \nThe Phyllis Webb Memorial Reading honours a Canadian poet(s) with a cash award and a celebration of their work. This event will occur each April and will be organized and administered by the Poetry in Canada Society\, https://www.poetrycanada.org/. \nA Governor General’s Award–winning poet and a member of the Order of Canada\, Phyllis Webb was a major Canadian cultural figure from the 1950s through the 1980s\, publishing ten celebrated collections of poetry and prose and co-founding the CBC Radio program Ideas (in 1965). When “words abandoned” her in the early 1990s and she was no longer able to write\, she took up photography\, photocollage\, and eventually painting. \nAs Stephen Scobie once wrote\, the work of Phyllis Webb “has always been distinguished by the profundity of her insights\, the depth of her emotional feeling\, the delicacy and accuracy of her rhythms\, the beauty and mysterious resonance of her images – and by her luminous intelligence.” It is this legacy that the Phyllis Webb Memorial Reading seeks to honour\, by selecting a poet who is distinguished by similar qualities. \nIn 2026\, the fourth annual Phyllis Webb Memorial Reading honours poet Wayde Compton\, who is the author of six books and the editor of two literary anthologies. His collection of short stories\, “The Outer Harbour”\, won the City of Vancouver Book Award in 2015 and his work has been a finalist for three other City of Vancouver Book Awards. He won a National Magazine Award for Fiction in 2011 and was nominated for the Dorothy Livesay Poetry Prize in 2000. In 2002\, Compton co-founded the Hogan’s Alley Memorial Project\, an organization devoted to researching and promoting Vancouver’s historical Black community and later helped establish the Hogan’s Alley Working Group and the Hogan’s Alley Society\, its successor organizations. From 2006-2011 Compton co-published Commodore Books\, Western Canada’s first Black Canadian literary press. He has been writer-in-residence at Simon Fraser University\, Green College at the University of British Columbia\, and the Vancouver Public Library. Compton currently teaches in the Department of Writing at the University of Victoria\, and his latest book is “Toward an Anti-Racist Poetics” (U of Alberta P\, 2024). \nImportant Information: \nVenue and Accessibility: This in-person event takes place at the SFU Harbour Centre (Room 1400). It is easily accessible by transit and near SkyTrain. The campus is wheelchair accessible and has wheelchair accessible washrooms. Gender neutral washrooms are also available. \nPlease note: This event may be recorded and/or photographed. If you do not wish to be photographed\, please inform the photographer.
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/phyllis-webb-memorial-reading-featuring-wayde-compton/
LOCATION:SFU Harbour Centre\, 515 West Hastings Street\, Vancouver\, BC\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Author Discussion,Award,Reading
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Livewhale-Phyllis-Webb_Compton-2026.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="SFU English":MAILTO:englcmns@sfu.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260414T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260414T200000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081626
CREATED:20260316T180418Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260316T180418Z
UID:49564-1776189600-1776196800@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:Stage Your Own Play with Cee Peal - Part One
DESCRIPTION:Gain a comprehensive understanding of the playwriting process from initial concept to production and finally opening night in this three-part series program. Learn about the concepts of Scene and Monologue Writing\, Text Analysis\, Staging\, Performance\, Production and more. \nUse this time to explore the early stages of theatre development and experiment with others in a collaborative and unique process. \n— \nCee Peal is a theatre artist from the Nisga’a First Nation of Northern B.C. now working in Vancouver on the traditional\, unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam)\, səl̓ilwətaɁɬ (Tsleil-waututh)\, and sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) peoples. He brings to the library his experience in storytelling\, theatre\, and image making\, drawing from his experience working as an actor\, director\, writer\, dancer\, and producer on various productions. With a passion for Indigenous studies and cultural evolution\, Cee is also the Indigenous outreach coordinator at The Cultch and the artistic associate at The Carmen Arts Group. \nTo find out more about Cee’s residency and keep up with his upcoming events visit: vpl.ca/storyteller
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/stage-your-own-play-with-cee-peal-part-one/
LOCATION:VANCOUVER PUBLIC LIBRARY – CENTRAL LIBRARY
CATEGORIES:Author Discussion,Meet & Greet,Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/ISiR_CeePeal_2026_Biblioevents_760x380px_Alt2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Vancouver Public Library":MAILTO:candie.tanaka@vpl.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260418T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260418T170000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081626
CREATED:20260417T230134Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260417T230134Z
UID:51545-1776526200-1776531600@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:Book Signing with Garth Mullins
DESCRIPTION:Please join us for a book signing with Garth Mullins; author of “Crackdown: Surviving and Resisting the War on Drugs”. This will be in collaboration with the Name the Crisis community art show\, which will be running from April 7-26th. Prior to the signing\, you can attend Garth’s reading and Q&A event at the Victoria Art Council Bay Centre Gallery at 1150 Douglas Street from 2-3:30pm! \n“Crackdown” is an intimate portrait of Garth’s relationship with opioids\, and a searing indictment of a broken system that is failing drug users and non-users alike. With street drugs getting more toxic by the day\, drug users and their families\, friends and communities are left to pay the price. This book asks us to radically reimagine our approach to drug use\, and to envisage a system that helps rather than harms. \nWhat: Book Signing with Garth Mullins \nWhen: Saturday\, April 18th from 3:30-5:00pm \nWhere: Munro’s Books – 1108 Government St \nHow: This event is free to attend
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/book-signing-with-garth-mullins/
LOCATION:Munro’s Books\, 1108 Government Street\, Victoria\, BC\, V8W 1Y2\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Book Signing,Day of Awareness
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ORGANIZER;CN="Munro's Books":MAILTO:events@munrobooks.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260421
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260423
DTSTAMP:20260430T081626
CREATED:20260225T222247Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260413T182654Z
UID:49246-1776736800-1776823199@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:BC Book Day
DESCRIPTION:WHEN: Tuesday\, April 21\, 2026 \nWHAT: BC Book Day invites British Columbians to celebrate the province’s book & magazine publishers\, authors\, illustrators\, bookstores\, libraries\, festivals\, and literary prizes that connect us with local stories. \nGOAL: To raise awareness among government and the public of BC’s publishing ecosystem and its cultural and economic contributions. \nWHO: BC Book Day is coordinated by Books BC\, which works to support the long-term health and success of the Canadian-owned book industry in British Columbia. \nHow can you support BC Book Day and BC’s Independent Publishers? \n\nBuy BC-published books directly from your local independent bookstore or the publisher’s website (list of BC publishers here).\nEncourage your school and public library to buy and stock both BC and Canadian-published books (find our Books for Schools database here)\nCelebrate Canadian Independent Bookstore Day on April 25 (learn about the day and how to participate here).
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/bc-book-day-3/
LOCATION:BC
CATEGORIES:Day of Awareness,Day of Celebration
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/banner@4x.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260421T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260421T200000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081626
CREATED:20260316T180429Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260316T180429Z
UID:49569-1776794400-1776801600@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:Stage Your Own Play with Cee Peal - Part Two
DESCRIPTION:Gain a comprehensive understanding of the playwriting process from initial concept to production and finally opening night in this three-part series program. Learn about the concepts of Scene and Monologue Writing\, Text Analysis\, Staging\, Performance\, Production and more.  \nUse this time to explore the early stages of theatre development and experiment with others in a collaborative and unique process. \n— \nCee Peal is a theatre artist from the Nisga’a First Nation of Northern B.C. now working in Vancouver on the traditional\, unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam)\, səl̓ilwətaɁɬ (Tsleil-waututh)\, and sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) peoples. He brings to the library his experience in storytelling\, theatre\, and image making\, drawing from his experience working as an actor\, director\, writer\, dancer\, and producer on various productions. With a passion for Indigenous studies and cultural evolution\, Cee is also the Indigenous outreach coordinator at The Cultch and the artistic associate at The Carmen Arts Group. \nTo find out more about Cee’s residency and keep up with his upcoming events visit: vpl.ca/storyteller
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/stage-your-own-play-with-cee-peal-part-two/
LOCATION:VANCOUVER PUBLIC LIBRARY – CENTRAL LIBRARY
CATEGORIES:Reading,Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/ISiR_CeePeal_2026_Biblioevents_760x380px_Alt2-1.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Vancouver Public Library":MAILTO:candie.tanaka@vpl.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260424T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260424T210000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081626
CREATED:20260407T213556Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260407T213556Z
UID:51076-1777057200-1777064400@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:Off the Shelf Poetry Reading Series with Cornel Bogle\, Lisa Richter\, Salena Wiener
DESCRIPTION:Please join SFU English and Poetry in Canada for a poetry reading featuring Professor Cornel Bogle\, Lisa Richter\, and Salena Wiener. \nDetails: \nDate/Time: Friday\, April 24th (Doors 6:30 PM; Event: 7-9 PM) \nLocation: SFU Belzberg Library at Harbour Centre campus \nThis is a free event\, no RSVP required. \nBios \nCornel Bogle engages Caribbean archives and diasporic memory through erasure\, found\, and lyric poetry. Their work has been published in literary platforms such as “brick”\, “Arc Poetry Magazine”\, and “Pree: Caribbean Writing”\, and has been presented in readings across Canada and the Caribbean. \nAt SFU\, they teach in areas such as Black and Caribbean literatures\, decolonial literary studies\, diaspora\, transnationalism\, and creative writing\, guiding students to explore how storytelling travels across borders\, histories\, and communities. Originally from Kingston\, Jamaica\, they earned their BA at the University of the West Indies\, and both their MA and PhD at the University of Alberta\, joining SFU in 2023. \nLisa Richter is a Toronto-based poet\, writer\, and educator. She is the author of two books of poetry\, “Closer to Where We Began” and “Nautilus and Bone”\, winner of the Canadian Jewish Literary Award\, the National Jewish Book Award (U.S.)\, and the Robert Kroetsch Award. Her work has been longlisted for the CBC Poetry Prize\, a National Magazine Award finalist\, and appeared in “Best Canadian Poetry”\, “The Fiddlehead”\, “The Malahat Review”\, and “The New Quarterly”\, among other places. She holds an MFA from the University of Guelph and teaches at the University of Toronto’s School of Continuing Studies. Her third book\, “Sublunary”\, is forthcoming with University of Alberta Press in March 2026. \nSalena Wiener is a poet and PhD student in English Literature at Simon Fraser University. Her research interests include British Romantic women’s writing\, print and manuscript culture\, digital humanities\, and ecopoetics. She has worked as a Research Assistant for SpokenWeb and the Women’s Print History Project. Her critical and creative work appears in “Honey & Lime Lit Magazine”\, “Peculiars Magazine”\, “Montreal Review of Books”\, “Digital Studies”\, and elsewhere. She is the author of two poetry chapbooks\, “bodies like gardens” (Cactus Press 2023) and “Cities of Delusions” (Anstruther Press 2026). \nVenue Accessibility \nThis in-person event takes place at the SFU’s Harbour Centre campus. It is easily accessible by transit and near SkyTrain. The campus is wheelchair accessible and has wheelchair accessible washrooms. Gender neutral washrooms are also available.
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/off-the-shelf-poetry-reading-series-with-cornel-bogle-lisa-richter-salena-wiener/
LOCATION:SFU Harbour Centre\, 515 West Hastings Street\, Vancouver\, BC\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Author Discussion,Reading
ORGANIZER;CN="SFU English":MAILTO:englcmns@sfu.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260425
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260427
DTSTAMP:20260430T081626
CREATED:20260219T005722Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260219T005914Z
UID:48893-1777082400-1777168799@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:Canadian Independent Bookstore Day (CIBD)
DESCRIPTION:Save the date!  \nApril 25\, 2026 is this years celebration of Canadian Independent Booksellers. \nIndie booksellers work hard to serve their customers and communities. CIBD is our opportunity to say thank you. \nHere are some ways you can participate in Canadian Independent Bookstore Day: \nBuy books! Purchase books and other items in-person\, online\, or by phone to show your support and to enter our annual contest. \nCheck out bookstore activities. Local shops across Canada are planning celebratory activities for the big day including customer giveaways\, discounts\, exclusive products\, author events\, and more. Visit their websites and social channels for details. \nHelp us spread the word. CIBD is an opportunity to raise awareness about everything that indies have to offer. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to share our info about the campaign throughout the month of April.
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/canadian-independent-bookstore-day-cibd/
LOCATION:BC
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Untitled-design-7.jpg
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END:VCALENDAR