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DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260606T133000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260606T150000
DTSTAMP:20260928T210505
CREATED:20260521T190053Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260604T193155Z
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SUMMARY:The Anime Studies Appetizer Sampler: Researching Japanese Popular Culture
DESCRIPTION:Anime and manga are more than entertainment – they are global cultural phenomena that shape communities\, inspire academic research\, and influence how people connect across borders. From fan conventions and online communities to tourism\, education\, and social movements\, Japanese pop culture continues to have a powerful impact around the world. \nIn this lively and wide-ranging talk\, Billy Tringali\, Librarian at the Indiana University Indianapolis and Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Anime and Manga Studies (JAMS)\, introduces you to the growing field of anime and manga studies through real-world examples and current research. Drawing from projects on anime research in the United States\, anime’s impact on fans’ social and mental health\, and global anime data initiatives\, Billy will explore how people study these pop culture contents and why it matters. Blending research\, fandom\, and personal experience\, this presentation offers an accessible look at the many ways anime and manga shape culture\, identity\, community\, and global engagement today. \n  \nThe Speaker \nCredit: pinkbikemike \nBilly Tringali is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Anime and Manga Studies\, and Founder and Academic Showrunner for the JAMS@AX Academic Symposium at Anime Expo\, the largest anime convention in North America. Billy is a Faculty Librarian at Indiana University Indianapolis\, where he serves as liaison for First-Year Sciences\, Undergraduate Research\, and Health Sciences.
URL:https://tr.jpf.go.jp/event/anime-studies-appetizer-sampler/
LOCATION:The Japan Foundation\, Toronto\, 2 Bloor St. East\, 3rd Floor\, Toronto\, ON\, M4W 1A8\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Library,Talk Event
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260617T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260617T193000
DTSTAMP:20260928T210505
CREATED:20260528T182641Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260604T203342Z
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SUMMARY:The World of Kamishibai: Japanese Paper Theatre and Storytelling
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a special introduction to the world of Kamishibai\, Japan’s traditional and unique form of paper theatre storytelling. Visiting from Japan\, two experienced Kamishibai storytellers\, Tamachan and Piiman-san\, will present an engaging overview of the history and cultural significance of kamishibai\, its various styles and formats\, and the techniques behind live storytelling performances.\nThe event will also feature live Kamishibai performances using their storyboards\, offering you a rare opportunity to experience this dynamic storytelling tradition through narration\, illustration\, and theatrical presentation. Whether you are new to Kamishibai or an experienced storyteller\, participants of all backgrounds and ages are welcome. \n*The event will be held in Japanese\, with Japanese-English interpretation provided by Jocelyne Allen. \n*JFT Library has special opening hours from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm on the day of the event. Feel free to explore our physical collection before the event! \n  \n\nAudience:\nEducators\, library professionals\, parents and anyone (6+ years old) who are interested in Japanese storytelling culture and techniques \nAdmission:\nFree (RSVP required) \nWheelchair Accessibility:\nYes \nRegister Here \n\nKamishibai Performers \n \nMIMOTO Fumiyo (a.k.a Piiman-san) performs kamishibai for children at libraries\, community centers and special events and also gives workshops in Yao City\, Osaka on handmade kamishibai. She won the top prize at the prestigious Minoh City Handmade Kamishibai Competition (箕面手作り紙芝居コンクール) in 2000 and has published many kamishibai stories for the elderly\, which she performs at elder caregiving seminars and facilities. \nMIMOTO is a co-founder of the Tezukuri Kamishibai-Kan in Osaka\, where she teaches children and adults how to create original kamishibai stories and shares classic street-performance kamishibai from the Shiozaki Children’s Kamishibai Museum. \n  \nOTSUKA Tamayo (a.k.a. Tamachan) is one of Japan’s leading practitioners of traditional street kamishibai and a cultural heritage practitioner dedicated to preserving\, transmitting\, and promoting Japanese kamishibai culture both in Japan and internationally. \nFor more than 45 years\, she has been engaged in kamishibai performance\, exhibitions\, publishing\, and educational activities. Beginning her career as a traditional street kamishibai performer traveling by bicycle to neighborhood parks\, she has devoted her life to preserving and transmitting Japan’s kamishibai heritage. \nIn recent years\, she has focused on discovering\, preserving\, reproducing\, and publishing handmade kamishibai created by children and community members. Working in collaboration with museums\, libraries\, schools\, and community organizations\, she promotes cultural heritage preservation and international exchange through kamishibai. \nThrough performances\, exhibitions\, workshops\, publications\, and international collaborations\, she has introduced kamishibai to audiences throughout Japan\, North America\, and Europe. \nShe currently serves as President of the Handmade Kamishibai Museum. \n*Learn more about OTSUKA Tamayo from here (PDF file) \n\nInterpreter\n \nJocelyne Allen is a Japanese translator and interpreter and has translated hundreds of short stories\, novels\, and manga\, including the Eisner Award-winning Frankenstein by Junji Ito and the critically acclaimed Our Dreams at Dusk by Yuhki Kamatani. As an interpreter\, she has worked with Japan’s most celebrated authors and artists\, including Sayaka Murata\, Nagata Kabi\, Kyoko Nakajima\, and Asano Inio. @brainvsbook \n 
URL:https://tr.jpf.go.jp/event/worldofkamishibai/
LOCATION:The Japan Foundation\, Toronto\, 2 Bloor St. East\, 3rd Floor\, Toronto\, ON\, M4W 1A8\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Lecture,Library,Performance,Talk Event
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260630T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260630T203000
DTSTAMP:20260928T210505
CREATED:20260611T214651Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260616T152439Z
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SUMMARY:JFT Book Club (Hybrid) – Manga: Run Away With Me\, Girl by Battan [Pride Month Pick!]
DESCRIPTION:For the upcoming JFT Book Club (Hybrid)\, we will discuss Battan’s manga\, Run Away With Me\, Girl\, Volume 1 (original Japanese version: ばったん作『かけおちガール』１巻; English translation by Kevin Steinbach). This moving and thought-provoking yuri manga explores sexuality\, identity\, societal expectations\, and the search for happiness through the reunion of two women in their twenties whose high school romance ended abruptly. Yuri manga is a genre of Japanese comics that depicts romantic relationships between women. Even if you have never read a queer love story before\, its relatable characters and universal themes of love\, adulthood\, and finding one’s place in the world make it an accessible and rewarding read. \nHeld during Pride Month and following Battan’s appearance as a featured guest and poster designer at the 2026 Toronto Comic Arts Festival\, this is a perfect opportunity to discover one of Japan’s most compelling manga creators. Whether you are a longtime manga fan\, interested in Japanese creators\, or curious about LGBTQ+ stories\, our book club offers a welcoming space to connect with readers from diverse backgrounds. \nJoin us in person or virtually from anywhere in the world\, connect with fellow readers to share what touched you and discover new perspectives on this powerful story that you might not have found on your own!  \nWe also have a limited number of “Observer” slots available for those who prefer to listen this time\, or for anyone curious about how a book club works without the pressure to speak. First-time participants are welcome!  \nRegister Here \n*Please be aware that space may be limited.  \n*Depending on the number of participants and how the discussion goes\, we might extend the end time until 8:30 pm (EDT). However\, if you have other commitments\, feel free to leave at 8:00 pm. \n  \nIf you have any questions or concerns\, please don’t hesitate to email us at library_jftoronto@jpf.go.jp.  \n\nShow WHY JOIN JFT BOOK CLUB?  \nWHY JOIN JFT BOOK CLUB?\nYou can read a book by yourself\, but when you read something thought-provoking or moving\, it’s natural to want to discuss it with someone else. This will be an exciting opportunity to connect with other book lovers from different cultural backgrounds\, find new and interesting books\, authors\, or themes\, and develop a richer understanding of Japan that you wouldn’t gain from reading alone! \n \n\nShow HOW DOES THE UPCOMING JFT BOOK CLUB WORK?  \nHOW DOES THE UPCOMING JFT BOOK CLUB WORK?\n1. Once you register for the event\, you will receive guiding questions to help you think more deeply about the book. \n2. On the day of the event\, we will meet via Zoom and in person at Japan Foundation Toronto Library (2 Bloor St E #300\, Toronto\, ON M4W 1A8 Canada). *How to find us: https://tr.jpf.go.jp/about-us/how-to-find-us/ \n3. We will start with a quick introduction & ice-breaking activity (*Light refreshments will be served for in-person participants) \n4. Depending on the number of the participants\, we will break into a few small groups to discuss questions so that everyone has a chance to share their thoughts. \n5. After each breakout session\, each group will share what they have discussed with other groups. \n*There is no right or wrong answer. Different perspectives make discussion more fun and vibrant! \n \n\nShow WHERE YOU CAN FIND THE BOOK?  \nWHERE YOU CAN FIND THE BOOK?\nRun Away With Me\, Girl\, Volume 1 (physical copies and ebooks) are available at JFT Library! The checkout of the physical copies are limited to JFT Book Club participants for a 1-week loan period (non-renewable).  \nTo get a new library card or to renew your existing card\, please follow the instructions found here. \n  Borrow Ebook      Email Library to place hold (physical copy)  \n  \nFor more information about the book or where else you can get the physical copies\, click here. \n \n\nShow ABOUT THE BOOK  \nABOUT THE BOOK\n Run Away With Me\, Girl\n(The original Japanese version:『かけおちガール』)\nWritten by Battan  \nTranslated by Kevin Steinbach \nPublished by Kodansha\, 2020 / Kodansha USA\, 2022 \n  \nA dramatic\, funny\, and painful romance manga between two women about how\, sometimes\, you need to run away in order to find where you truly belong. Perfect for fans of coming-out yuri like How Do We Relationship? and masters of adult drama like Akiko Higashimura (Princess Jellyfish) and Takako Shimura (Even Though We’re Adults). You know that one person you just can’t forget? Not the one that got away\, but the one you had\, until suddenly you didn’t? Maki’s first love was her high school classmate\, a girl named Midori. But Midori broke up with Maki at graduation\, saying they were now “too old to be fooling around dating girls.” Ten years later\, Maki still can’t get Midori off her mind\, and when the two women reconnect after a chance encounter\, Maki realizes that\, while her feelings haven’t changed\, Midori has long moved on—in fact\, she’s engaged. Yet the more Maki hears Midori talk about her soon-to-be-husband\, the more red flags she notices. And Midori has another secret\, one she hasn’t yet shared with Maki. Will it be the last blow to Maki’s hopes that their romance might be rekindled? Or will it be the push that sets them on a new path—one they’ll travel together? \n— from Publisher’s website \n \n\nShow ABOUT THE AUTHOR  \nABOUT THE AUTHOR\nBattan debuted in 2016 with her title Nijiiro konpurekkusu (Rainbox Color Complex)\, published by KODANSHA. Her other works include Ane no yujin (My Older Sister’s Friend\, LEED)\, Kakeochi garu (Kodansha; published in English as Run Away with Me\, Girl)\, Kemutai ane to zurui imoto (Annoying and Cunning Sisters\, Kodansha). Soshite hiroin wa inaku natta (And Then There Were No Heroines) is currently being serialized in the online comic platform Web Action. Battan loves dogs. \n \n\n\nShow Video Archives of Past Event on Manga  \nVideo Archives of Past Event on Manga\nFind out how manga are translated across genres in the first of the Parallel Worlds series of discussions\, Parallel Worlds: Translating Manga\, where translator Jocelyne Allen sits down with colleagues David Evelyn and Jenny McKeon to discuss the challenges and thrills of connecting two different cultures. You can now watch the recording on our YouTube channel. \nFor more recordings of past JFT lectures\, interviews\, presentations\, and expert discussions\, check out our Japan Dialogues collection.  \nWatch Here \n\n  \n \n\n\n \nPrevious Book Clubs\n \n\nJFT Book Club (Hybrid) : Sakura by NISHI Kanako – April 16\, 2026 \n\nJFT Book Club (Hybrid) – With Silent Reading Time –Books Adapted into Film – February 24\, 2026 \n\nJFT Book Club (Hybrid) – Seesaw Monster by ISAKA Kotaro – Nov 8\, 2025 \n\nJFT Book Club (Hybrid) – With Silent Reading Time – Food in Japan – September 25\, 2025 \n\nJFT Book Club (Hybrid) – Manga: Look Back by FUJIMOTO Tatsuki – Jun 10\, 2025 \n\nJFT Book Club (Hybrid) – With Silent Reading Time – Japanese Architecture\, Civil Engineering\, and Landscapes – April 15\, 2025 \n\n \nJFT Book Club (Hybrid) – First Love by SHIMAMOTO Rio – February 8\, 2025 \n\nJFT Book Club (Hybrid) – With Silent Reading Time – Yōkai – November 21\, 2024 \n\nJapanese Tadoku Book Club – October 26\, 2024 \n\nJFT Book Club (Hybrid) – Before the Coffee Gets Cold by KAWAGUCHI Toshikazu – September 4\, 2024 \n\nJFT Book Club (Hybrid) – With Silent Reading Time – Japanese Ceramics & Life in the Edo to Meiji Periods – June 18\, 2024 \n  \nJFT Book Club (Hybrid) – Manga: BL Metamorphosis by TSURUTANI Kaori – April 18\, 2024 \n\nJFT Book Club (Hybrid): Mild Vertigo by KANAI Mieko – February 13\, 2024 \n\nJFT Book Club (Hybrid) – With Silent Reading Time – Holiday Reading Recommendations – November 16\, 2023 \n\nJFT Book Club (Hybrid) – Manga: Planetes by YUKIMURA Makoto – September 28\, 2023 \n\nJFT Book Club (Hybrid) – With Silent Reading Time – LGBTQIA+ Books -June 20\, 2023 \n\nJFT Book Club Online – Manga: After the Rain by MAYUZUKI Jun -April 24\, 2023 \n\nJFT Book Club Online – Three Short Works by NISHI Kanako: On beauty\, the Female Experience and Othering – February 8\, 2023 \n\nJFT Book Club Online: Temple Alley Summer by KASHIWABA Sachiko – September 15\, 2022 \n\nJFT Book Club Online: Manga – June 15\, 2022 \n\n \nJFT Book Club Online: Bring Your Own Book – April 13\, 2022 \n\nJFT Book Club Online: The Woman in the Purple Skirt by Natsuko Imamura– February 9\, 2022 \n\nJFT Book Club Online:Colorful by Eto Mori– November 10\, 2021 \n\n \nJFT Book Club Online: Heaven by Mieko Kawakami – August 12\, 2021 \n\nJFT Book Club Online: Manga – June 10\, 2021 \n\n \nJFT Book Club Online: Bring Your Own Book – April 8\, 2021 \n\nJFT Book Club Online: The Memory Police – February 11\, 2021 \n\nJFT Book Club Online: Breasts and Egg – November 5\, 2020 \n\nJFT Book Club Online: Travel Japan – August 20\, 2020 \n\nJFT Book Club Online – June 11\, 2020 \n\nMemoirs of a Polar Bear – February 20\, 2020 \n\n \nThe Little House – December 12\, 2019 \n\nMystery Book Club – October 10\, 2019 \n\nMovies and Books – August 8\, 2019 \n\nBooks and Tea – June 6\, 2019
URL:https://tr.jpf.go.jp/event/jft-book-club-hybrid_manga-runaway-battan/
LOCATION:The Japan Foundation Toronto Library\, 2 Bloor St E #300\, Toronto\, ON\, Canada\, M4W 1A8
CATEGORIES:Library
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260704T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260704T163000
DTSTAMP:20260928T210505
CREATED:20260618T183041Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260722T222606Z
UID:114079-1783164600-1783182600@tr.jpf.go.jp
SUMMARY:Tanabata Star Festival 2026 at JFT Library
DESCRIPTION:Thank you to all those who joined Tanabata Star Festival 2026 at JFT Library! \n*For those who participated and have not yet had the chance to fill in the questionnaire\, it would be of great help to us if you could share your feedback. As we strive to continually improve and create more inspiring experiences for our patrons\, your feedback will play a vital role in shaping our future events! \nMissed the event? Our sasa bamboo tree and food samples are still on display until Friday\, July 31. You are welcome to add your own wishes when you visit the library during our opening hours! \n \n\n Tanabata Star Festival (七夕祭り) is a traditional Japanese festival where people make wishes and send them to the stars. Mark your calendar for a special day of cultural exploration\, creativity\, and heartfelt wishes at JFT Library!\n \nRSVP is not needed! Join us with your friends and family on this joyous occasion and engage in a variety of activities that will transport you to the heart of Tanabata\, including:  \n  \nTanzaku-writing Workshop: Write Your Wish in Japanese!\n12:00 pm – 4:00 pm \nAccording to the Tanabata tradition\, people write their wishes and aspirations on colourful tanzaku cards and hang them on sasa (bamboo branch) in hopes that they will reach the stars and their dreams will come true. This year\, we’re introducing a special drop-in workshop where you can learn to write your wish in Japanese using a brush pen. No Japanese language skills or calligraphy experience required. \n  \n  \n  \n\nKamishibai Storytelling\n11:30 am – 12:00 pm\, 4:00 pm – 4:30 pm\n*We’ve updated the kamishibai schedule so you won’t have to choose between the stories and cheering on Team Canada vs Morocco at the World Cup! \nListen to the mesmerizing art of kamishibai\, a traditional Japanese form of street theatre and storytelling\, where folk tales and children’s stories are brought to life through vibrant illustrations and dynamic narration! This year\, we will be presenting a classic folklore story and a new story by a guest storyteller: \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Story of Tanabata  『たなばたものがたり』\nThe Sea Sluggers (Story by Samantha Dizon\, Illustrations by Kayla Preston-Lord)\n\n*Our Kamishibai storytelling will be in English\, so you don’t need Japanese language ability.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGuest Storyteller \nSam Dizon began kamishibai storytelling in 2013. As a children’s programmer at Toronto Public Library\, she borrowed kamishibai kits and did outreach storytelling in branches and for several schools. When she had gone through the library’s collection\, the students asked her for more. Sam began writing kamishibai stories\, drawing on her life experiences\, love of Japanese culture and knowledge gained from the East Asian Studies program at University of Toronto\, where she was studying part-time. She has completed 9 stories with illustrations by three artists. She has read her stories to hundreds of children and families in schools\, libraries\, storytelling festivals\, Wee Asian Film Festival and various events. \n \n  \nOrigami Fishing Pond\n11:30 am – 1:30 pm\, 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm \nGoldfish catching is a quintessential festival activity in Japan. For our Tanabata Star Festival\, we have prepared an origami fishing pond instead. Try catching some origami sea creatures with a fishing rod! \n  \n  \n \nYukata Dress Up\n12:00 pm – 4:00 pm \nDon’t miss the chance to try on a Yukata (a traditional Japanese garment worn during the summer season). Feel a connection to the vibrant traditions of Japan! \n  \n  \nPhoto Booth\n12:00 pm – 4:00 pm \nCapture the memories of this special day at our photo booth with entertaining props and a festive backdrop! \n  \n  \n Check out Library Materials and Cultural Items on Display about Tanabata and Japanese Festivals!\n11:30 am – 4:30 pm \nVisitors are welcome to browse our collection of over 20\,000 Japan-related materials covering a wide range of topics\, including Tanabata and Japanese festivals.\nIf you’re new to our library\, we can help you sign up for a library card! \n*Special Thanks to Consulate-General of Japan in Toronto for kindly loaning some cultural items. \n  \n  \n  \nClick here to download a PDF file of Tanabata Star Festival activities schedule\n *We’ve updated the kamishibai schedule so you won’t have to choose between the stories and cheering on Team Canada vs Morocco at the World Cup!
URL:https://tr.jpf.go.jp/event/tanabata-star-festival2026/
LOCATION:The Japan Foundation Toronto Library\, 2 Bloor St E #300\, Toronto\, ON\, Canada\, M4W 1A8
CATEGORIES:Children's Event,Library,Performance,Talk Event,Workshop
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260815T163000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260815T183000
DTSTAMP:20260928T210505
CREATED:20260716T205638Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260825T215253Z
UID:114736-1786811400-1786818600@tr.jpf.go.jp
SUMMARY:JFT Book Club (Hybrid) – With Silent Reading Time – Share Your Favourite Books from JFT Library
DESCRIPTION:Thank you to all those who participated in JFT Book Club (Hybrid) – With Silent Reading Time – Share Your Favourite Books from JFT Library!\n\nPlease continue to check the JFT’s website and newsletters for future book club information. \nSharing some comments from our participants! \n“Genuinely enjoyed the event! I think everything was timed well enough for us to enjoy every bit. Especially enjoyed the discussion. Every participant brought a different book and shared such interesting and personal perspectives as well. People bounced of each others opinions and recommendations which made the whole discussion so lively. It was very engaging and I hope everyone had as much fun as I did! Thank you Risa-san\, Emi-san and all the library staff\, for creating such a wonderful space with a thriving community that will only continue to grow thanks to your efforts. Also\, thank you for continuing to keep the hybrid mode alive. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to participate in such wonderful event!”\n—Johan  \n“We can make it longer\, more time to chill.”\n—Peter  \n \nShare Your Favourite Book. Celebrate Our Library Collection. Cultivate Cultural Exchange. \nBefore our physical library concludes operations in conjunction with our office relocation\, join us for a special book club celebrating our library collection\, the memories it has inspired\, and the community that have grown around it. Whether you’re a long-time library patron or a first-time visitor\, everyone is welcome! No assigned reading or prior knowledge is required. You can attend in person at the library or join online from anywhere in the world. \nOn the day of the event\, we invite you to bring a favourite book from our physical or digital collection (in English\, Japanese\, or French) and briefly share why it is meaningful to you or a memory associated with it. Then\, enjoy a relaxing hour of silent reading together; you can either revisit your own pick or read a book recommended by another participant. We’ll wrap up with an informal discussion in English\, where you’re welcome to share your thoughts on what you read\, or simply listen to fellow participants. This is a friendly\, low-pressure space where curiosity is encouraged\, different viewpoints are celebrated\, and every level of participation is valued. \nAs one of the last opportunities to gather in our current physical library before its relocation\, we hope this special session helps you cultivate meaningful connections with readers from diverse backgrounds through books and (re-)discover Japanese literature\, manga\, nonfiction\, and culture through fresh perspectives. \nThis book club is part of our special event series\, Journey onto JFT’s Next Chapter\, celebrating our community\, expressing our sincere appreciation to everyone who has supported us\, reflecting on our history together\, and sharing our vision for the future as we embark on this new chapter. Participants are warmly encouraged to explore our full program and make the most of this opportunity to enjoy our current public spaces and programming together! \nRegister Here   \n  \nIf you have any questions or concerns\, please don’t hesitate to contact us in person\, by phone\, email\, or via our contact form. \nP.S. The final day to borrow physical materials from our library will be Saturday\, August 22\, and all borrowed items must be returned by Friday\, October 9. JF Canada Digital Library will remain available during and after the relocation. \n\nShow WHY JOIN JFT BOOK CLUB “WITH SILENT READING TIME”?  \nWHY JOIN JFT BOOK CLUB “WITH SILENT READING TIME”?\nMany of us simply want more time to read but cannot squeeze the time in\, as we have too many distractions and interruptions in our daily lives to concentrate on reading. JFT Book Club with Silent Reading Time offers a sanctuary to indulge in the simple pleasure of reading\, surrounded by fellow book enthusiasts who share your love for literature. \nIn addition\, we provide an optional space for those who wish to connect and discuss their reading experiences with others. Engage in conversations at your comfort level and learn new perspectives from other book lovers from different cultural backgrounds that you wouldn’t gain from reading alone! It’s a safe space where your thoughts and impressions are valued\, regardless of whether you choose to actively participate or quietly absorb the conversations around you. \nWe welcome both seasoned book club members and first-time participants to discover the joy of silent reading without the pressures of finishing an assigned book on time and/or participating in mandatory discussions. \n \n\nShow HOW DOES THE UPCOMING JFT BOOK CLUB WORK?  \nHOW DOES THE UPCOMING JFT BOOK CLUB WORK?\n\nOnce you register for the event\, find a book to share based on the criteria listed in WHAT BOOK TO BRING? (see below) or from JFT Library’s collection. \nOn the day of the event\, we will meet via Zoom and in person at the Japan Foundation Toronto Library (2 Bloor St E #300\, Toronto\, ON M4W 1A8 Canada). *Click here to check how to get to our Library.\nWe will start with a quick introduction & ice-breaking activity (*Light refreshments will be served for in-person participants)\nParticipants will share their books and why they pick them up (2-3 minutes each)\nSilent Reading Time: Participants will read the book they select anywhere in the library (or wherever they want if participating virtually). \nOptional Discussion Time: We will share thoughts and learning from the book\, favourite quotes from your chosen book\, suggestions for next reads\, etc.\n\n*There is no right or wrong answer. Different perspectives make the discussion more fun and vibrant! \n \n\nShow WHAT BOOK TO READ?  \nWHAT BOOK TO READ?\nA book to bring can be either a physical book\, ebook\, or audiobook (excluding DVDs & Blu-rays) that meets the following criteria: \n\nTheme: Your Favourite Book from JFT Library’s physical or digital collection \ni.e.\, Japan-related fiction\, nonfiction\, or manga about Japan\nOR fiction\, nonfiction\, or manga by Japanese author(s) \nLanguage: Books can be written in any language (i.e. English\, Japanese\, French). *The book club meeting will be held in English.\nFor those who cannot visit our library in person\, check out ebooks/audiobooks on JF Canada/USA Digital Library!\n\n*You can either borrow a book from the JFT Library’s collection\, or bring your own copy from home. \n*You can check whether the book is part of our collection by searching on our online catalogue (*to search physical & digital items) or JF Canada/USA Digital Library (*to search and read ebooks & audiobooks). Please contact us if you wish to confirm the availability with us. \nTo get a new JFT library card or to renew your existing card\, please follow the instructions found here. \n \n\nRelated Programming\n\nThe Canadian Connection: How literary translators bring Japanese voices to the world\nJuly 13 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm EDT \nYou may have noticed an increasing number of Japanese titles appearing on bestseller lists and displayed at your local bookstores and libraries. Behind this growing popularity and access to Japanese voices are literary translators\, whose work helps to shape how Japanese literature is read\, understood\, and enjoyed around the world. \nTo celebrate the vital yet often unrecognized work of translators who bring Japanese voices to the world\, three Canada-based translators of Japanese literature will gather onstage at the Japan Foundation. The conversation will be moderated by an editor of Japanese literature in translation\, and together they will reflect on the work of translation\, sharing insights into the creative process\, the opportunities and challenges facing translators today\, and the evolving landscape of Japanese literature in translation. The speakers will also discuss the dynamic role of the literary magazine MONKEY: New Writing from Japan*(formerly Monkey Business) in bridging languages\, cultures\, and literary traditions to bring Japanese literature to English readers. \n\nDetails Here *The event has passed. We will be making the video of this event available on our YouTube channel. Stay tuned!\n\n \n\n \n\n\n\nContemporary Japanese Cinema Spotlight\nJuly 8 – August 20\, 2026 \nAs 2026 marks a significant year for Japanese cinema on the global stage\, this summer we turn the spotlight to four of its most acclaimed contemporary voices. With new works by FUKADA Koji\, HAMAGUCHI Ryusuke\, KORE-EDA Hirokazu\, and KUROSAWA Kiyoshi selected for major sections at the Cannes Film Festival\, this series celebrates the creative force of Japan’s leading auteurs today. \nSpanning intimate drama\, psychological thriller\, and period piece\, the series brings together recent works that exemplify each director’s distinctive voice and thematic concerns. From nuanced explorations of human relationships to quietly unsettling reflections on society\, these films demonstrate the depth and diversity of contemporary Japanese filmmaking. \nJoin us this July and August for a curated selection of films that reflect the artistry of contemporary Japanese cinema! \n\nRegister Here\n \n \n\nJFT People’s Choice Award\n\n\nVoting closes: Monday\, July 27\, 12:00 pm EDT \nAs we prepare to bid farewell to our public space\, we’re inviting our community to help decide the final film to be screened at the Japan Foundation Toronto Event Hall. \n\n\nFor the final screening\, the audience will take the programmer’s seat through the JFT People’s Choice Award. Cast your vote for a Japanese film that you would like us to show — whether it’s one of your favourite titles previously presented by JFT or another Japanese film you’ve always wanted to experience on the big screen. \nYour vote will help shape this special farewell event and celebrate the films and stories that have brought our community together over the years. \nDetails Here \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n \nPrevious Book Clubs\n  \n \n\nJFT Book Club (Hybrid) – Manga: Run Away With Me\, Girl by Battan [Pride Month Pick!] — Tue\, Jun 30\, 2026 \n\nJFT Book Club (Hybrid) : Sakura by NISHI Kanako – April 16\, 2026 \n\nJFT Book Club (Hybrid) – With Silent Reading Time –Books Adapted into Film – February 24\, 2026 \n\nJFT Book Club (Hybrid) – Seesaw Monster by ISAKA Kotaro – Nov 8\, 2025 \n\nJFT Book Club (Hybrid) – With Silent Reading Time – Food in Japan – Sep 25\, 2025 \n\nJFT Book Club (Hybrid) – Manga: Look Back by FUJIMOTO Tatsuki – Jun 10\, 2025 \n\nJFT Book Club (Hybrid) – With Silent Reading Time – Japanese Architecture\, Civil Engineering\, and Landscapes – April 15\, 2025 \n\n \nJFT Book Club (Hybrid) – First Love by SHIMAMOTO Rio – February 8\, 2025 \n\nJFT Book Club (Hybrid) – With Silent Reading Time – Yōkai – November 21\, 2024 \n\nJapanese Tadoku Book Club – October 26\, 2024 \n\nJFT Book Club (Hybrid) – Before the Coffee Gets Cold by KAWAGUCHI Toshikazu – September 4\, 2024 \n\nJFT Book Club (Hybrid) – With Silent Reading Time – Japanese Ceramics & Life in the Edo to Meiji Periods – June 18\, 2024 \n\nJFT Book Club (Hybrid) – Manga: BL Metamorphosis by TSURUTANI Kaori – April 18\, 2024 \n\nJFT Book Club (Hybrid): Mild Vertigo by KANAI Mieko – February 13\, 2024 \n\nJFT Book Club (Hybrid) – With Silent Reading Time – Holiday Reading Recommendations – November 16\, 2023 \n\nJFT Book Club (Hybrid) – Manga: Planetes by YUKIMURA Makoto – September 28\, 2023 \n\nJFT Book Club (Hybrid) – With Silent Reading Time – LGBTQIA+ Books -June 20\, 2023 \n\nJFT Book Club Online – Manga: After the Rain by MAYUZUKI Jun -April 24\, 2023 \n\nJFT Book Club Online – Three Short Works by NISHI Kanako: On beauty\, the Female Experience and Othering – February 8\, 2023 \n\nJFT Book Club Online: Temple Alley Summer by KASHIWABA Sachiko – September 15\, 2022 \n\nJFT Book Club Online: Manga – June 15\, 2022 \n\n \nJFT Book Club Online: Bring Your Own Book – April 13\, 2022 \n\nJFT Book Club Online: The Woman in the Purple Skirt by Natsuko Imamura– February 9\, 2022 \n\nJFT Book Club Online:Colorful by Eto Mori– November 10\, 2021 \n\n \nJFT Book Club Online: Heaven by Mieko Kawakami – August 12\, 2021 \n\nJFT Book Club Online: Manga – June 10\, 2021 \n\n \nJFT Book Club Online: Bring Your Own Book – April 8\, 2021 \n\nJFT Book Club Online: The Memory Police – February 11\, 2021 \n\nJFT Book Club Online: Breasts and Egg – November 5\, 2020 \n\nJFT Book Club Online: Travel Japan – August 20\, 2020 \n\nJFT Book Club Online – June 11\, 2020 \n\nMemoirs of a Polar Bear – February 20\, 2020 \n\n \nThe Little House – December 12\, 2019 \n\nMystery Book Club – October 10\, 2019 \n\nMovies and Books – August 8\, 2019 \n\nBooks and Tea – June 6\, 2019
URL:https://tr.jpf.go.jp/event/jft-book-club-silent_favourite/
LOCATION:The Japan Foundation Toronto Library\, 2 Bloor St E #300\, Toronto\, ON\, Canada\, M4W 1A8
CATEGORIES:Library
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://tr.jpf.go.jp/wp-content/uploads/Thumbnail_BookClub_Favourite_1080x1080.png
ORGANIZER;CN="The Japan Foundation%2C Toronto Library":MAILTO:library_jftoronto@jpf.go.jp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20261003T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20261003T163000
DTSTAMP:20260928T210505
CREATED:20260910T142804Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260924T191859Z
UID:115949-1791027000-1791045000@tr.jpf.go.jp
SUMMARY:TSUNAGU: Passing on Books\, Memories & Culture つなぐ：本と思い出と文化交流
DESCRIPTION:Join us for TSUNAGU (つなぐ: to connect)\, a special celebration of the books\, memories\, and cultural connections that have flourished at the JFT Library. As we prepare to relocate\, this will be our final in-person celebration at our current library location and the final Saturday that the physical library will be open to the public. \nSome of our library items are selected for giveaway\, including books\, manga\, magazines\, CDs\, DVDs\, Blu-rays\, and VHSs in English\, Japanese\, and French. Find a treasure to take home and help us pass our collection on to new readers! \nAt our hands-on origami station\, you’re invited to fold a paper butterfly and pair it with an ema (絵馬)-inspired message card. Drawing on the Japanese tradition of writing wishes and messages on wooden plaques\, you can share a memory\, wish\, cultural discovery\, or message for the future. A butterfly is also included in the Japan Foundation’s logo\, whose form represents the cyclical exchange of culture: our wish to deliver Japanese culture to the world while conveying diverse cultures of the world back to Japan. Add your butterfly and message to a growing collaborative art installation\, and help us create a collective expression of the connections made through the library! \nWhether you have been visiting us for years\, discovered the library recently\, or simply love Japanese books and culture\, we invite you to join us\, meet fellow patrons and staff\, share your memories\, and create something together! \n  \nAbout the JFT Library Collection After Our Relocation\nIn preparation for our relocation\, our public-lending physical library will conclude its operations on Friday\, October 9\, 2026. At the new location of our Centre\, a portion of the library’s existing collection will be retained as a reference-only (not public lending) resource at our new location and will be made available upon request. (These materials will not be included in the giveaway items during the TSUNAGU event.) We will announce further details about this service and how to access the collection after this winter. \nOur JF Canada Digital Library will continue its service without interruption\, providing continued access to ebooks and audiobooks for eligible users. \n  \n  \n\nRelated Programming\n \nBring Your Own Bento: Japanese Language and Culture Talk [Topic: Japanese Gift-Giving Culture] \nSaturday October 3\, 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM (ET) \nIn-person at JFT | Admission Free | Registration Required | Presented in English and basic Japanese \nIn conjunction with the JFT Library’s event titled “Tsunagu: Passing on Books\, Memories & Culture”\, this session’s topic will be Japanese Gift-Giving Culture. Come join us and learn Japanese words and phrases related to gift-giving\, along with interesting facts about this theme. All attendees will receive a gift from our center! Join us for the talk\, and take the opportunity to participate in the library’s event during your visit! This session is B.Y.O.B. (“bring your own bento“)\, so please feel free to bring your lunch with you. \nDetails Here
URL:https://tr.jpf.go.jp/event/tsunagu-library/
LOCATION:The Japan Foundation Toronto Library\, 2 Bloor St E #300\, Toronto\, ON\, Canada\, M4W 1A8
CATEGORIES:Library
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://tr.jpf.go.jp/wp-content/uploads/JFTNewsltter_TSUNAGU_library_1080x1080.png
ORGANIZER;CN="The Japan Foundation%2C Toronto Library":MAILTO:library_jftoronto@jpf.go.jp
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR