Dorset library branch extends hours to include Thursdays

HALIBURTON COUNTY (January 8th, 2026): The Dorset branch of the Haliburton County Public Library (HCPL), located inside the Dorset Recreation Centre, is extending open hours in January by introducing a Thursday evening opening from 3 to 7 p.m. 

The Library Board approved an increase in service hours at the Dorset branch during their September 10, 2025 meeting. The decision was made based on public survey results gathered between June 12 and July 1, 2025. Both digital and paper copies of the survey were  made available and widely promoted. The survey collected responses from both full-time  and seasonal residents of Algonquin Highlands and found that most people were interested in having weekday evening hours available at the Dorset branch. 

As a result of the expanded Thursday evening hours, the library is pleased to introduce an  After-School Hangout program at the Dorset branch on Thursdays from 3-7pm for children and their families, as an opportunity to unwind together after the school day. Families are  invited to drop in and enjoy a mix of hands-on STEAM activities, creative play, and open-ended exploration in the library space.

About the Dorset Library Branch 

The Dorset branch officially opened on October 25, 2024. It is a 683-square foot space on the lower level of the Dorset Recreation Centre, located at 1051 Main Street in Dorset, Ontario. It is HCPL’s eighth branch within the County, and its second branch within the Township of Algonquin Highlands.

About Haliburton County Public Library

With eight library branches across the County, Haliburton County Public Library (HCPL) offers free public access to information, resources, programs, spaces, and services to meet the lifelong learning and literacy needs of residents and visitors. HCPL plays a critical role in  maintaining strong and healthy communities, for example, by offering free WiFi, public  computers and printers, as well as educational and literacy programs for people of all ages, backgrounds, abilities, and interests. HCPL’s extensive collection includes both physical and digital materials. 

For more information, contact:

Andrea Brown, CEO/Chief Librarian
Haliburton County Public Library
705-457-2241 
abrown@haliburtonlibrary.ca