The Moose Jaw Public Library (MJPL) has secured a collaboration with Radio Canada to offer a series of French-speaking ‘digital storytelling’ workshops, led by video journalist Nicole Lavergne-Smith and facilitated by director Chantal Hamon. 

“So, we are partnering with Radio-Canada Saskatoon to offer three digital storytelling workshops,” explained Jennifer Doede, the community outreach librarian at MJPL. “We wanted to offer the Moose Jaw community more French programming, and we thought this partnership was absolutely fantastic.” 

The program will run for three consecutive Thursdays: Feb. 29, March 7, and March 14 from 7 to 9 p.m. in the South Meeting Room at the MJPL in Crescent Park.  

Participants should attend all three workshops, which will start with realizing that everyone has a story to tell — and how to get started. The second workshop will focus on development, storyboarding, and deciding which audiovisual elements should be included.  

Finally, workshop number three will focus on producing the final version. On April 11 at 7 p.m., all the stories will be presented at a special session at the MJPL Theatre. 

Registration is open for anyone 13 and up, although anyone 15 and under will need signed consent from a parent or guardian. The workshops will be led in French, so participants should probably know at least a little of the language, Doede said, but she noted that all language levels are welcome. 

Register through the MJPL website at www.moosejawlibrary.ca.  

“‘Tire-toi une bûche’ means to ‘pull up a chair’ around a campfire, or ‘take a seat’, like for a story,” explained Doede, who will attend the sessions as the library representative. “Basically, at the end of the three digital storytelling workshops, participants will have a complete digital story they can share, and we’re trying to focus on personal experiences, maybe with an emphasis on French. 

“We’re really thankful to be collaborating with Radio Canada for a workshop series like this, and to have the opportunity to offer more French programming in the community.” 

Moose Jaw is one of only three locations in Saskatchewan offering the workshops — they are also being held in Prince Albert and Saskatoon.