Wednesday, February 16 will be Train Night at Port Elgin Library as the Friends of the library host their fifth Library Live! event. From 7 to 9 p.m. it’s an opportunity to explore the romance of the rails through photographs and memories.

Featured guest is John R. Hardy, of Hanover, the author of Rusty Rails: a photographic record of branchline railways in Midwestern Ontario 1966-1991. He has taken hundreds of photos of trains, stations, and outstanding features of the now-abandoned lines in our area. John will present a selection of images from his collection.

Ed Cook, of Southampton, will talk about his backyard live-steam railway, the second he has operated in Saugeen Shores. A long-time resident, his enthusiasm for steam is legendary among railway modellers. He will share some video footage of his trains.

Doug Schlenker, builder of the Port Elgin & North Shore Railroad, will reminisce about the steam train at the waterfront. His interest in steam began with a visit to a plowing match, and the daily watching of trains passing his dad's shop opposite Port Elgin's CNR station. Weather perimitting, Scott Pearson of Beamsville, current owner of the original PENSRR locomotive, will travel to share the story of his restoration of the engine.

Everyone is welcome to the Library Live! programs. This month, Friends of the Library extend a special invitation to anyone whose family includes railway workers, past or present. Come share your memories.

Programs take place in the Community Room of the library at 708 Goderich Street. Admission is by donation to the Friends.

Library Live! is a series of programs for adults that connects books and other materials in the library collection with interests of the community. Each event features local presenters and displays on the topic, with time for questions and refreshments.

Port Elgin Friends of the Library is a charitable organization supporting the programs and services of the Library. Membership is open to anyone wishing to befriend the 102-year-old Carnegie Library. The Friends are currently raising funds to restore the original table and chairs, now in the upper level of the building.