 Ameliasburg (Al Purdy) Branch Library Hours
History Of The Al Purdy Library The by-law creating a library in Ameliasburgh Township was signed in 1975. The library's first location was the back of Harry Bisdee's store in the hamlet of Ameliasburgh. Later, the library was moved into the township hall, and finally found its present home in the little stone schoolhouse on the Whitney Sideroad. S.S.#12 had been built in 1848, served as a one-room school until 1965 and was ravaged by fire in 1981. It was later restored by the 7th Town Historical Society and provides a pleasant, cozy space for today's library. The branch was renamed the Al Purdy Library on September 23, 2001 in honor of the area's most illustrious resident. The late Al Purdy, author of over 30 books of poetry and prose, was the winner of two Governor General's awards, the Order of Canada and the Order of Ontario. As part of the special ceremony, Al's widow, Eurithe Purdy, and son Jim unveiled the sign bearing the branch's new name. The family of Al Purdy has graciously lent various pictures and awards to the library. Fans of Al Purdy may be interested in stopping by to view the display, including his Order of Ontario and Order of Canada. The library's collection includes books, VHS, DVDs, magazines for all ages, large print and talking books. Other services include interbranch and interlibrary loans, public computers with free internet access, a photocopier, children's summer reading programs and a Friends of the Library group. The library is wheelchair accessible through the main entrance and disabled parking is also available.
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