London Street Names Book Launch
Saturday June 13th 2-4pm at the Central Library
On Saturday, June 13, 2026, a large crowd gathered on the third floor of Central Library to celebrate the publication of the second edition of London Street Names. First published in 2003, the new edition includes 30 additional stories about how London’s highways and byways received their names.
Editors Mike Baker and Hilary Bates Neary introduced the book and invited several contributors to share how they discovered and researched their histories. Publisher James Lorimer congratulated London on its bicentennial, spoke warmly about the importance of libraries in furthering local history, and championed the publication of Canadian books.
The Friends’ hospitality team of Debby Lowry, Scott Curoe and Lois Gosney provided refreshments for themany Friends and local history enthusiasts who attended. Hilary Thomas of Oxford Books sold all 40 copies she brought and took orders for more.
Friends of the London Public Library hosts Speaking With Friends at venues adjacent to the London Central Public Library in Citi Plaza for our fundraising Lectures on Literature and Literacy series. Authors reading and speaking at the event over the years have included Emma Donoghue, Peter Robinson, Maureen Jennings, Eleanor Wachtel and Bill Richardson. A reception, book sale and signing are also part of the evening. Admission to Speaking With Friends is free although donations are accepted to support Library programs.
