A number of Owen Sound cultural organizations are coming together to create a card as part of a new free membership program.
The new OPEN card allows access to the Owen Sound and North Grey Union Public Library, the Tom Thomson Art Gallery, Billy Bishop Museum, and the Marine and Rail Waterfront Museum.
The program will launch on May 18, and the card will be available to anyone eligible for a library card.
In addition, the city says as part of the TOM”s affiliation with the Ontario Association of Art Galleries, cardholders will also gain free admission to over 100 Ontario art galleries.
CEO and Chief Librarian of the Owen Sound and North Grey Union Public Library Tim Nicholls Harrison says, “it is wonderful to work with other community-focused organizations to deliver 21st-century services locally. The library is excited about this new partnership and we look forward to helping our current and future members enjoy the benefits now available.”
To celebrate the OPEN card, the TOM will be hosting a reception on the launch date from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., and will feature a music performance by local band G.R.I.N.D., refreshments, and a cash bar.
As capacity for the event is limited, people who are interested in attending can RSVP with Community Engagement Coordinator Hillary Weppler at hweppler@tomthomson.org.
Mayor Ian Boddy says, “I am thrilled to see this innovative, free membership program launch in Owen Sound. This great collaboration between these four local organizations will improve access to art and culture for everyone in our community, and for all of the Union Library partner municipalities. I can’t wait to get by OPEN card.”