Seeing authors present their works in real time with other fans and book lovers is a magical and unforgettable experience. That’s why we are excited to partner with the Festival of Literary Diversity (FOLD) next week with FREE watch parties in four of our branches.

This year’s FOLD kicks off with virtual programming from April 28 - May 1 before moving to in-person events in downtown Brampton from May 2 - 5. If you’re curious, what better way to learn more than to attend a FOLD x Brampton Library Watch Party?! Crossing genres, themes, and formats, these free in-branch experiences are worth a look:

Watch Party #1 in two parts:

Sunday, April 28, 2024, Cyril Clark Branch Library

• 11 a.m.: Meet the FOLD team at the virtual kick-off
• 12 p.m: Stay for FREADOM: Authors on Activism

What is the role of writers in a turbulent world? In this conversation with Wildseed Executive Director Jessica Kirk (Moderator), authors Farzana Doctor, Marjorie Beaucage, and Rodney Diverlus discuss the role of authors in times of crisis, including how to balance the work of writing with the demands of political engagement and activism.

Watch Party #2:

Monday, April 29, 2024, Springdale Branch Library

•  7 p.m.: Fun with Fiction

Covering an array of genres and styles, authors Natalie Sue, Craig Shreve and Mai Nguyen discuss their most recent novels and the process of crafting an imagined story with incredible plot and characters.

Watch Party #3:

Tuesday, April 30, 2024, Mount Pleasant Village Branch Library

• 7 p.m.: Navigating Ghosts: Memoirs and Memories

In this panel of memoir writers, authors Tara Sidhoo Fraser, Tania De Rozario and Tessa Hulls discuss the stories behind personal accounts that tackle themes of mental health, grief, disability, and loss. Discover the ideas that influenced three impressive works of creative non-fiction -- each with their own unique format.

Watch Party #4:

Wednesday, May 1, 2024, Chinguacousy Branch Library

• 12 p.m. Writing Distinct Voices, participants will be seated at tables to facilitate participation

Whether you're writing an epic fantasy, an emotional love story, a suspenseful thriller, a dramatic family saga, or a charming romance, it's important to build characters who are complex and distinct -- characters with unique backstories and personality that provide dimension. In this workshop, writers of all levels explore different ways to enhance character voice through dialogue with author and literary agent Taj McCoy.