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National Library News

October 1995, vol. 27, no. 10

Public Programs

Spotlight on...
Another Very Successful Canada Day

by Natalie Lavigne, Public Programs

Many people will tell you that July 1, 1995 in Ottawa was two things: oppressive, unrelenting heat, and heaven-sent rain that broke the almost unbearable humidity. Yet they are overlooking another very important fact about July 1: the holiday was unforgettable and the enthusiasm overwhelming. Here is a brief review of how Canada's 128th birthday unfolded at the National Library of Canada.

In the torrid, almost tropical heat, hundreds of curious visitors came to the National Library on July 1 this year. Despite recent budget cuts, Public Programs still managed to celebrate Canada Day in fine style with its WOW (West on Wellington) partners.

As was the case last year, the Kins Clubs of Canada held a flag ceremony with special guests Marcel Beaudry, Chairman of the National Capital Commission, and National Librarian Marianne Scott. The ceremony began around 8:30 a.m., as planned, in the Garden of the Provinces, across from the National Library. The National Librarian was invited to say a few words:

"The National Library and its partners on Wellington Street have participated in Canada Day festivities for several years. While we serve Canadians from coast to coast, it isn't every day that we get to see so many Canadians from all regions right here on Wellington Street!"

After wishing her guests an enjoyable day, Miss Scott proceeded to 245 Sparks Street in Ottawa where the Elections Canada exhibition on democracy was being unveiled. To mark its 75th year, Elections Canada had invited the Prime Minister, Jean Chrétien, the Governor of the Bank of Canada, Gordon Thiessen, and Miss Scott to speak at a breakfast gathering.

There was no shortage of activities at the National Library on July 1: with the "reading tent", the treasure hunt and the science-fiction model builders, there was something for everyone.

The WOW treasure hunt, which proved very popular last year, returned in 1995. Participants were issued a WOW passport, giving them admission to the National Library, the National Archives, the Supreme Court, the Currency Museum, and Elections Canada at 245 Sparks Street. To answer the questions on their passport they had to visit each institution. Once they had answered all the questions, they were then given an entry form for the draw. Considering the prizes offered by the five institutions -- T-shirts, commemorative pens, books, compact discs, etc. -- it should come as no surprise that so many people participated in this treasure hunt. The winners, Makdessian Sarine of Montreal and Mark Robertson of Kingston, were quite proud of their achievements and thrilled with their rewards!

For fans of science fiction, the Science Fiction Model Builders' Association organized competitions and demonstrations of the art of modelling. There were many participants and more than 80 models were presented. This was the ideal opportunity to admire works by modellers and to be transported to new worlds. This activity was presented as part of the exhibition at the National Library, "Out of This World: Science Fiction and Fantasy in Canada".

And let's not forget the kids and their parents, who spent magic moments in the Frontier College reading tent. Radio personality Joan Olinik, Mohawk and Algonquin artist Simon Brascoupé, and federal Member of Parliament Mac Harb were among the "readers". Their interpretations introduced many young people to the simple pleasures of reading.

Tourists and residents of the National Capital Region alike took advantage of Canada Day to visit the National Library's exhibition on science fiction and fantasy, "Out of This World", as well as a small display on the national anthem to mark the fifteenth anniversary of its official adoption.

In brief, the day was a smashing success: many people discovered the National Library for the first time, while others renewed an old friendship. But all returned home with marvellous memories of a very enjoyable time. Yes, it was another wonderful Canada Day!