We all have computer work to do. No? Just me then? How about quiet work, or list writing, menu planning, recipe book re-organizing? The mindless, but important stuff of life that must get done somewhere in between dropping kids off and picking up groceries. We also need time to just sit on our asses and stare out a window. Science said so.
Enter “Office Hours”.
WHO IS THIS FOR?
- It is technically for everyone, but if you identify as neurodivergent, spoonie, disabled, anxious, sober, quiet, weird, a bookworm, this was designed with you in mind. There will probably be some extroverts there. No one gets turned away (except a**holes).
- This is nice for folks with social anxiety. There are no expectations for chatting or small talk, other than the standard “hi, welcome, what is your name and your pronouns?” Have you heard of body doubling? Let’s do it in person.
- Ages teens and up. Now, kiddos are welcome because we are in a library and they all have tonnes of activities for kiddos, but they can also be a distraction, so keep that in mind. You know your kid best! We won’t provide any specific child-minding activities. And remember, that it’s drop-in time, so pop in for as long as you can.
WHAT DO I DO?
- You set the terms and schedule. Wanna watch You Tube? Perfect. Prefer to catch up on emails? I hear ya! Do you enjoy staring out a window at the sky? We’ve got that too!
- Since we are in a public space, if you choose to listen to music or videos, please be respectful of the folks around you and wear headphones.
- Your host will be there for the entirety of the time, but you can come and go as your schedule permits.
I know you have asked yourself these questions: How do I make friends with people when it is so hard? How do I see my pals and acquaintances when we are all so busy? Do other people feel this way too?
This is a play on the quest to “Always Be Productive” that feels really gross in our current culture, and you are trying really hard to break away from. But also, like, you have stuff to do. It’s called being an adult. Wheeee!
WHY?
- Because meeting new people, and making friends is hard for many of us. There are fewer and fewer opportunities, and those are often inaccessible to different types of people and for a multitude of reasons.
- It gets you out of the house. It gets you exploring some of our city’s amazing libraries! You can practice your social skills, meet new people to expand your community, and maybe even make a friend!
- No registration required. It’s free! Come to one session, or come to all. While masks may no longer be required in public spaces, your neighbour might be wearing one. If you are feeling ill, please stay home. Let’s respect our fellow attendees and keep each other safe
WHERE?
- A local library branch in Edmonton
- They have wifi, power outlets, tables and cozy chairs
- They don’t charge money for being in this space
- It’s important that we support our local libraries! They do a lot more than just rent books
SCHEDULE
October 5, 2025 at Stanley Milner branch (downtown)
Super accessible via public transit. Large tables with handy plug ins. To note, this library is very busy on the weekend and can be louder than expected. We recommend bringing earplugs or headphones if that will be a distraction or complication for you.
November 2, 2025 at Mill Woods branch
Located next to Mill Woods Town Centre mall you’ll find lots of free parking, and easy LRT or bus access. This library is a busy one, so bring headphones if you need to.
December 7, 2025 at Highlands branch
Hang out with us in the second floor loft. There is elevator access and big round tables for sharing.
January 4, 2026 at Capilano Branch
Capilano branch is located in a building that looks like a mountain range, with a wall of windows that faces the forested area. It feels like you are in a magical place – which you are because it’s also a library!
February 1, 2026 at Mill Woods branch
Lots of free parking, and super easy access from bus and LRT, this branch gets busy on the weekends! Find us to the left of the front door in some cozy chairs.
March 1, 2026 at Stanley Milner Library (downtown)
Super accessible via public transit. Large tables with handy plug ins. Very busy on the weekend and can be louder than expected. We recommend bringing earplugs or headphones if that will be a distraction or complication for you.
Not Ladylike Community 