Speculative fiction (science fiction, fantasy and horror) is usually seen as a boy's club. But women have been contributing to these genres for just as long. Women have taken part in every level of the creation of speculative fiction, from writing to editing to illustrating. The Merril Collection of Science...
On February 11, 2023, the United Nations and scientists around the world celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. Although the inclusion of women in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields has improved significantly in recent years, there is still a long way to go. According...
February is Black History Month and there are so many ways to celebrate. Canadians are invited to participate in Black History Month events and celebrate Black culture, heritage, and achievement all year long but February is a time when you'll see a vast array of activities. The theme this year,...
Pablo Picasso called him “the Leonardo of our time.” Among his inventions: a machine to wag tails of lazy dogs (never built). A chair “for very short visits” with a seat at a 45-degree angle (built, beautifully). A children's bed combining a cockpit with a jungle gym. A beautiful half-clock/half-sculpture,...
International Holocaust Remembrance Day, also known as Holocaust Memorial Day, occurs annually on January 27. Many people around the world commemorate this significant date by attending events and programs. The United Nations General Assembly adopted the observance in November 2005. This date was chosen as it marks the anniversary of...
Welcome to the scariest time of the year, when the veil between the dead and the living grows thin and spirits roam the night. No, not Halloween. I’m talking about Christmas! This festival of feasting and good cheer has some surprisingly ghoulish traditions. So if you’re sick of being jolly,...
December 2 is the International Day for the Abolition of Slavery. The General Assembly of the United Nations Convention adopted the observance in 1949. When you hear or see the word slavery, what do you think of? Is it the Trans-Atlantic slave trade? For many, the image of shackles and...
In folklore, "wee folk" have many names and forms. These fictional characters range from tricksters to helpful companions. But, these secretive and magical creatures can be difficult to spot! Peek under the toadstool at our new exhibit, Wee Folk: Fairies, Elves, Trolls and More. The exhibit runs until January 14,...
"Spring Forward, Fall Back." It's that time of year again! On November 6, we all had to set our clocks back an hour as we mark the end of daylight saving time. Every year, there are debates about whether we should cancel the practice. Admittedly, I've never really had a...
“A goal without a plan is just a wish.” – Antoine de Saint-Exupéry We have all heard the phrase “I hope this email finds you well,” and no one likes it. Why you may ask? Perhaps it was a less-than-happy expression, an extra task, or perhaps it is just wishful...