Public libraries have long been essential institutions in communities around the world, providing access to knowledge, literature, and resources. To keep up with our rapidly changing world, public libraries are evolving to meet the diverse needs and expectations of their communities.
Idea Exchange has taken this evolution one step further, offering members free access to a world of information, arts, entertainment and online resources. Idea Exchange is transforming the way people experience their local library and public art galleries, creating an environment of curiosity and discovery through the exploration of the arts and new technologies.
Idea Exchange is an innovative community space that fosters creativity, learning, and collaboration throughout their five Cambridge locations. As Queen’s Square manager Laura Knudsen explains, Idea Exchange is a free service that delivers a world of information, education and entertainment to Cambridge and surrounding communities, whether they choose to participate in person, or online.
“All of our services are free, so whatever people want to learn, we can usually get them started and get information into their hands,” says Knudsen. “And when we’re closed, people can check out e-books, audio books, stream video and movies all with their free membership.”
In addition to their vast collection of books, magazines and research materials, members enjoy access to diverse and vibrant online services like:
- OverDrive: Download or stream thousands of free eBooks, audiobooks, and magazines
- Hoopla: Borrow movies, TV shows, eBooks, audiobooks, digital music, and comics
- Kanopy: Access over 30,000 indie movies, Hollywood classics, international cinema, kids’ collection and more
- PressReader: Over 5,000 newspaper and magazine titles from more than 120 countries, in over 60 languages.
Access to all Virtual Library services is free with a valid Idea Exchange membership. If you don’t have a membership and live in Cambridge, you can get immediate access to these resources with an online membership.
Creative Spaces
There is so much more to learning than just what’s written on the page, and Idea Exchange embraces hands-on learning by providing access to the latest tech, musical exploration and creative spaces. Whether you want to learn to play the kulele or spend some time playing the latest game on a Switch, membership opens the doors to your creative pursuits.
“Our public libraries have a large collection of items that people can check out – but we also do other things”, Knudsen explains. “We have Art Galleries at our Queens Square and Preston locations, and the Old Post Office location with quite a large Makerspace.”
At the Old Post Office on Water Street South, members can try their hand at using a laser cutter and 3D printer and the Creative Studio provides a space for audio and video recording, and even digitizing old family photos from photos, negatives, slides, VHS, and film. No experience is needed; members can book the equipment, and Idea Exchange staff are on hand to offer instruction and assistance.
Programs and Special Events
From learning a new language to taking up soldering to therapeutic journaling, there is always something fun happening at Idea Exchange. Check out the events calendar for upcoming classes, workshops and more for children, tweens, teens, adults and seniors.
Says Knudsen “We have lots of programs that people aren’t aware of until they start using Idea Exchange. It’s definitely worth a visit.” Another exciting benefit of being an Idea Exchange member is enjoying free or discounted admission to over 100 museums and art galleries throughout Ontario.
Idea Exchange is exclusive to the Cambridge community but through an agreement with surrounding libraries, residents of select neighbouring communities can sign-up for a free Idea Exchange membership to use our services as well. In return, residents of Cambridge with a valid Idea Exchange membership, can sign up for cards in those partner communities. A full list of reciprocal borrowing communities is available online.
Open the doors to unlimited learning with your free Idea Exchange membership!
To sign up or to learn more about the many programs, services and for a list of upcoming events, stop in to the Queen’s Square, Clemens Mill, Hespeler, Old Post Office or Preston locations, call 519-621-0460, or visit online today.