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DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251020
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UID:43479-1760925600-1761530399@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:Vancouver Writers Fest
DESCRIPTION:They can delight\, inspire\, provoke\, comfort and unite—as do the authors\, journalists and poets who wield them. At the Vancouver Writers Fest we encourage readers of all ages to explore the power of storytelling\, and books\, through our dozens of events with local and international writers. \nOur activities include both year-round programming and our flagship\, annual literary Festival: one of the largest and most prestigious in North America. Tens of thousands of readers visit the cultural hub of Granville Island and venues around Vancouver to connect with local and international authors during this week-long event. \nThroughout the year we offer free and paid events with established and emerging authors\, in addition to youth education opportunities.
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/vancouver-writers-fest/
LOCATION:various around Vancouver\, Vancouver\, BC\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Festival
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/2025_VWF_Festival_header-1-2048x682-1.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Vancouver Writers Fest":MAILTO:info@writersfest.bc.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20251023T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20251023T183000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081843
CREATED:20251007T230142Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251007T230142Z
UID:43319-1761240600-1761244200@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:On Edge Reading Series Fall 2025 presents: Hajer Mirwali
DESCRIPTION:The On Edge Reading Series showcases the work of writers who are doing the freshest\, most interesting\, and relevant work\, writers who are also artists\, volunteers\, literary award winners\, social justice organizers\, prison abolitionists\, literary organizers\, dancers\, managing editors\, filmmakers\, creative writing instructors\, and scholars. \nFEATURING: \nHajer Mirwali\nThursday\, October 23\, 2025 at 5:30PM PT\nONLINE ONLY: https://emilycarru.zoom.us/meeting/register/f7TPNA51RA-7ShKqfoyWnw \nHajer Mirwal is a Palestinian and Iraqi writer living in Toronto. Her first book\, Revolutions (Talonbooks\, 2025)\, is a collection of poetry on shame\, pleasure\, and Arab Muslim girlhood. Two poems from the collection also appear in an anthology of Palestinian poetry called Heaven Looks Like Us (Haymarket Books\, 2025). Hajer’s work has been published in The Ex-Puritan\, Brick Magazine\, Room Magazine\, and Joyland. She has an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Guelph \n——- \nAll readings are FREE and open to the public. ASL interpretation is provided for all readings. On Edge is organized and hosted by Mercedes Eng and assisted by Eliza. \nOn Edge on social media: https://www.instagram.com/onedgereadingseries/\nFor any other inquiries: Please email onedge@ecuad.ca \nThe series is support by the Emily Carr Writing Centre with grateful acknowledgement to the Canada Council for the Arts and the Coast Salish First Nations whose traditional lands we are on.
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/on-edge-reading-series-fall-2025-presents-hajer-mirwali/
LOCATION:Emily Carr University of Art + Design\, 520 E 1st Ave\, Vancouver\, BC\, V5T 0H2\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Author Discussion,Reading
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ORGANIZER;CN="On Edge Reading Series":MAILTO:onedge@ecuad.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20251025T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20251025T160000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081843
CREATED:20250903T163756Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250903T163756Z
UID:35599-1761386400-1761408000@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:Alcuin Wayzgoose: Letterpress Print & Book Arts Fair
DESCRIPTION:The Alcuin Society and Vancouver Public Library are pleased to present the biennial Alcuin Wayzgoose\, the largest letterpress print and book arts fair in Vancouver! \nCome and meet more than 27 many skilled book artists\, printmakers\, letterpress printers\, papermakers and paper marblers and watch various book arts demonstrations throughout the day. \nThe exhibitors this year are: \nBarbarian Press\nBrigitte Potter-Mael\nCanadian Typography Archives\nCharles Van Sandwyk Fine Art Studio\nEmily Carr University of Art + Design\nGreenboathouse Press\nHannah McKendry\nIbis Trading Inc\nIntrovert Press\nJean Kares\nJocelyn Barrable-Segal\nKeith Valentine\nMariko Ando\nMarkus Fahrner\nMother Tongue Press\nMurray Schellenberg\nNew Leaf Editions\nPenny Parry\nPhyllis Greenwood\nRenée Alexander\nSeawrack Press\nSim Publishing\nStefani Peter\nTaaye Wong\nThe Haunted Bookshop\nUBC Fine Arts Department of Art History\nWestcoast Calligraphy Society \nNo registration is required
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/alcuin-wayzgoose-letterpress-print-book-arts-fair/
LOCATION:Vancouver Public Library\, Central Branch\, 350 West Georgia St.\, Vancouver\, BC\, V6B 6B1\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Author Discussion,Festival,Workshop
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ORGANIZER;CN="Vancouver Public Library":MAILTO:candie.tanaka@vpl.ca
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251030
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251104
DTSTAMP:20260430T081843
CREATED:20251008T223102Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251008T224101Z
UID:43470-1761789600-1762135199@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:Whistler Writers Festival
DESCRIPTION:In 2025\, the Whistler Writers Festival is pleased to gather in-person to welcome readers and writers to our mountain town. We continue to offer a select number of online events. Please review the program and website carefully to determine which options are available for each event. \nWe look forward to sharing stories again this year.
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/whistler-writers-festival-3/
LOCATION:various in Whistler\, BC
CATEGORIES:Festival
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ORGANIZER;CN="Whistler Writing Society":MAILTO:writers@whistlerwritersfest.com
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20251030T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20251030T200000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081843
CREATED:20251006T181334Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251006T181334Z
UID:41628-1761849000-1761854400@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:Poetry in Translation
DESCRIPTION:Join us for an evening lost in translation with three talented poets as they discuss the often overlooked art of translation. How do you carry a book from one language to another\, line by line\, with precision? UBC Associate Professor Bronwen Tate will moderate the discussion with poets Rhea Tregebov\, Rahat Kurd and Deborah Woodard. \n— \nBronwen Tate is the author of the poetry collection The Silk the Moths Ignore. She is an Associate Professor of Teaching and Undergraduate Chair in the UBC School of Creative Writing\, where she offers courses in poetry\, creative writing pedagogy\, and literary translation. A Practical Guide to Teaching Creative Writing: Supporting Inclusive Pedagogy\, a collaboration with colleague John Vigna\, is forthcoming with Bloomsbury Academic in Spring 2026. \nRhea Tregebov is the author of eight collections of poetry\, most recently\, Talking to Strangers. She edited and co-translated the anthology Arguing With the Storm: Stories by Yiddish Women Writers and taught workshops in literary translation at UBC. In 2019 she taught a graduate course for the English Department at Tsuda University in Tokyo entitled “Translating the Self: Issues in Literary Translation.” Tregebov has translated poetry from French and Spanish and has worked in tandem translation from Japanese\, Catalan and Finnish\, languages she does not know. She is now an Associate Professor Emerita at the School of Creative Writing at UBC. \nRahat Kurd is a poet\, writer\, and editor of Kashmiri and north Indian family origin\, born in Canada and based in Vancouver. The Book Of Z\, published by Talonbooks this fall 2025\, is her second full-length work of poetry. Her previous literary titles with Talonbooks are The City That Is Leaving Forever: Kashmiri Letters\, (2021)\, co-authored with Kashmiri poet Sumayya Syed\, and Cosmophilia\, (poems\, 2015). In her work as a beginner translator of contemporary Urdu poetry\, Rahat Kurd is particularly interested in the ways lyrical resonances from the classical ghazal tradition have influenced modern and feminist Urdu-language poetic sensibilities. \nDeborah Woodard studied with Charles Simic at the University of New Hampshire and has a PhD from the University of Washington. Her books include Borrowed Tales (Stockport Flats) and No Finis: Triangle Testimonies\, 1911 (Ravenna Press). With Roberta Antognini\, she has translated the poetry of Amelia Rosselli in Hospital Series (New Directions)\, Obtuse Diary\, The Dragonfly\, and Notes Scattered and Lost (Entre Rios Books). Their translation of Rosselli’s Document has just been published by World Poetry Books. Deborah teaches at Hugo House in Seattle\, Washington and co-curates the reading series Margin Shift. \n*This event is curated by writer\, Jen Currin (Disembark and Trinity Street amongst many others).
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/poetry-in-translation/
LOCATION:Vancouver Public Library\, Central Branch\, 350 West Georgia St.\, Vancouver\, BC\, V6B 6B1\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Book Signing,Panel,Reading
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/TranslationEventFinal.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Vancouver Public Library":MAILTO:candie.tanaka@vpl.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251107
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251110
DTSTAMP:20260430T081843
CREATED:20251107T201808Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251107T201808Z
UID:45052-1762480800-1762653599@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:Fraser Valley Writers Festival
DESCRIPTION:The Fraser Valley Writers Festival is an annual two-day literary festival featuring keynote addresses\, readings\, panel discussions\, writing workshops\, live podcast recordings\, and more\, hosted at the Abbotsford campus of the University of the Fraser Valley.  \n​November 7-8\, 2025 \nUFV Abbotsford\, Room B101
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/fraser-valley-writers-festival/
CATEGORIES:Festival
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/FVWF-Poster_2025.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20251113T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20251113T183000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081843
CREATED:20251107T200720Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251107T200720Z
UID:44991-1763055000-1763058600@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:Neveah North (ON EDGE READING SERIES: FALL 2025)
DESCRIPTION:The On Edge Reading Series showcases the work of writers who are doing the freshest\, most interesting\, and relevant work\, writers who are also artists\, volunteers\, literary award winners\, social justice organizers\, prison abolitionists\, literary organizers\, dancers\, managing editors\, filmmakers\, creative writing instructors\, and scholars. \nFEATURING: \nNeveah North\nThursday\, November 13\, 2025 at 5:30PM PT\nIN-PERSON in the Aboriginal Gathering Place at Emily Carr University (520 E 1st Ave\, Vancouver\, BC)\nLivestream option: Visit linked Zoom registration page! \nNevaeh Emily North is 36 years old and a proud member of the Carrier Nation\, born in Kelowna and raised in Prince George\, British Columbia. Her journey hasn’t been easy — she spent almost 16 years incarcerated. Those years shaped her in deep and lasting ways. They were some of the hardest of her life\, but they also gave her strength\, perspective\, and a powerful sense of purpose. Today\, Nevaeh stands rooted in her culture and identity. She carries forward the teachings of her ancestors and the lessons learned through both pain and resilience. She passionate about healing\, growth\, and giving back to her community — especially to others who feel forgotten or silenced. Navaeh’s story is still unfolding\, but she walks forward with honesty\, pride\, and hope. \n——- \nAll readings are FREE and open to the public. ASL interpretation is provided for all readings. On Edge is organized and hosted by Mercedes Eng and assisted by Eliza. \nFor any other inquiries: Please email onedge@ecuad.ca \nThe series is support by the Emily Carr Writing Centre with grateful acknowledgement to the Canada Council for the Arts and the Coast Salish First Nations whose traditional lands we are on. \nInstagram: @onedgereadingseries
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/neveah-north-on-edge-reading-series-fall-2025/
LOCATION:Emily Carr University of Art + Design\, 520 E 1st Ave\, Vancouver\, BC\, V5T 0H2\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Author Discussion
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ORGANIZER;CN="On Edge Reading Series":MAILTO:onedge@ecuad.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20251121T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20251121T210000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081843
CREATED:20251107T202700Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251107T203539Z
UID:45057-1763751600-1763758800@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:Rahat Kurd at Planet Earth Poetry
DESCRIPTION:On November 21\, head to Russell Books to see Rahat Kurd feature at Planet Earth Poetry! Kurd will be sharing poetry from her brand new collection The Book of Z. Now in their 30th season\, Planet Earth Poetry is Victoria’s longest-running poetry-only open mic and reading series. All of the information can be found here. \nRahat Kurd at Planet Earth Poetry\nRussell Books\nVictoria\, BC\nNovember 21\, 2025\n7:00 p.m.
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/rahat-kurd-at-planet-earth-poetry/
LOCATION:Russell Books\, Victoria\, BC\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Open Mic,Reading
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20251126T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20251126T193000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081843
CREATED:20251027T213034Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251027T213034Z
UID:43419-1764181800-1764185400@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:Author Talk: Robert J. Muckle
DESCRIPTION:Join us for an evening with Robert Muckle as he discusses his book Once upon This Land: Archaeology in British Columbia and the Stories It Tells. \nOnce upon This Land introduces readers to some of the most notable archaeological investigations\, including footprints left in mud on Calvert Island 13\,000 years ago\, the remains of a large First Nations village near Lillooet\, and the body of a man frozen in ice for centuries in the Tatshenshini region. He also investigates more recent phenomena\, such as a fur-trade fort\, remains of the gold rush\, a First World War internment camp near Fernie\, a Japanese logging camp in North Vancouver\, shipwrecks\, airplane crashes\, and even the remnants of COVID-19 left behind in urban landfills. \nRobert will discuss the book\, answer questions\, and have copies of the book for sale.
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/author-talk-robert-j-muckle/
LOCATION:North Vancouver Public Library – Lynn Valley branch\, 1277 Lynn Valley Road\, North Vancouver\, BC\, V7J 0A2\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Author Discussion
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Robert-Muckle-Author-Talk.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="North Vancouver District Public Library":MAILTO:info@nvdpl.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20251128T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20251128T210000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081843
CREATED:20251107T203212Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251107T203212Z
UID:45065-1764358200-1764363600@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:Four BC Poets Laureate
DESCRIPTION:ON Friday\, November 28\, Planet Earth Poetry is presenting a special evening of readings by four British Columbia Poets Laureate (presented as a sister event with Twisted Poets Reading Series in Vancouver on January 21\, 2026).
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/four-bc-poets-laureate/
LOCATION:Russell Books\, Victoria\, BC\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Reading
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/PoetLaureateReadingFall2025Season30.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20251206T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20251206T170000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081843
CREATED:20251107T200804Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251107T200804Z
UID:45017-1765033200-1765040400@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:North Shore Authors Collection Book Sale
DESCRIPTION:Join us for an exciting Book Sale featuring the authors from the 2025/2026 North Shore Authors Collection! \nThe North Shore Authors Collection celebrates the literary talent of North Shore authors by highlighting locally created content in all three North Shore libraries. This is your opportunity to purchase some of the titles featured in this year’s collection while meeting the authors in person to chat about their work or have your books personally signed. \nBring your friends\, your family\, and your love for local literature. We can’t wait to see you there! \nLet’s read local and support local authors. \nNote: authors may have different payment preferences\, including cash\, e-transfer\, or cheque.
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/north-shore-authors-collection-book-sale-2/
LOCATION:North Vancouver Public Library – Lynn Valley branch\, 1277 Lynn Valley Road\, North Vancouver\, BC\, V7J 0A2\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Meet & Greet
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/NSAC-book-fair.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="North Vancouver District Public Library":MAILTO:info@nvdpl.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20251216T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20251216T200000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081843
CREATED:20251006T181251Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251006T181251Z
UID:42081-1765908000-1765915200@www.readlocalbc.ca
SUMMARY:Giant Silent Reading Party
DESCRIPTION:Are you stressed about the holidays or feeling a little lonely? The Vancouver Public Library is hosting a giant silent reading party to combat the holiday blues. 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.
URL:https://www.readlocalbc.ca/event/giant-silent-reading-party/
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/2025/09/GiantSilentReadingPartyFinal.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Vancouver Public Library":MAILTO:candie.tanaka@vpl.ca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260128T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20260128T200000
DTSTAMP:20260430T081843
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:20260430T081843
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:20260430T081843
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:20260430T081843
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:20260430T081843
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:20260430T081843
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:20260430T081843
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:20260430T081843
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:20260430T081843
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:20260430T081843
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:20260430T081843
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/
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:20260430T081843
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:20260430T081843
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:20260430T081843
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:20260430T081843
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:20260430T081843
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:20260430T081843
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:20260430T081843
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
END:VCALENDAR