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Finding the Funny
In the spirit of April Fools’ Day, we’re helping you find the funny in your everyday life. People say laughter is the best medicine and these days, we’ll try anything! Doctors have indicated that laughter can help as a distraction, but it can also relieve stress, improve memory and even make you more resilient.
This month we're highlighting the wonders of the library’s digital collections, from professional comedic genius, to cartoon comedy even the health benefits of laughter. And, while we’re not condoning pranks, you can find a list of ideas to fool your Family from Reader’s Digest. So, Find the Funny!
The galleries below have been curated by staff and link to free, digital content. You may be asked to login using your name, library card and PIN. Once logged into a database, you will be taken directly to the article. Your browser will usually remember logging in for the next time.
P.S. Need a Library Card? Signing up for a library card is free for residents of the Region of Waterloo. You can start with a digital card to gain immediate access to online collections (like the ones below).
Lyrics to Make You Laugh
Some of the best play on words in music happen in those oh so dramatic musical numbers. Have a listen to these ridiculous and outlandish show tunes as well as a few comedians who have utilized the art of music to provide you with some cheeky, laugh-out-loud, funny moments.
Laugh Out Loud
A comedian is a person who seeks to entertain people by making them laugh. So.... be prepared to laugh out loud while watching live performances, listening to comedians tell their own stories, or share about their personal and professional lives. (Contains explicit language)
Cartoon Comedy
Cartoons have always been a medium for comedy and continue to give us some of the most enjoyable laughs. This gallery contains full length cartoon features, as well as behind the scenes documentaries, political cartoon creation, making your own comics and cartoon representation that have recently caught the attention of the media.
Laughter is the Best Medicine
HA! HA! Science has proven there is a link between laughter and the brain. Laughter truly IS the best medicine. Read about how others have not just survived cancer and other illness but done it with humour and grace. One comedian uses his Asperger’s to educate others about the autism spectrum through his stand-up routine. Laugh like a kid again with an audiobook or an episode of Sesame Street on healthy habits. Two teens take a comedic look at healthy eating in the National Film Board sketch. Laugh and the whole world laughs with you!
More Funnies
Get Social
Our Get Social programs are sure to bring a smile to your face. Join us in April for Oscar Obsessed Trivia on April 21, and invite a friend! Past programs include: 90s Nostalgia Night, Netflix & Chill Trivia, Broadway Music Bingo and more.
April Break
Connect your kids with fun activities during April Break (and keep them out of your hair!). There are programs from Engineering Science Quest, Scott the Magician, The Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory and our fantastic Children’s Department.
The Making Box
The Making-Box, based in Guelph, with a satellite hub in Waterloo has been empowering individuals and organizations through improv training and comedy. As they acknowledge, the need for joy and human connection is greater now more than ever. During the pandemic, they are offering free online introductory classes for those who want to step out of their comfort box. There are options for Business, Overcoming Creative Doubt and Energizing Virtual Learning Spaces.
90s Nostalgia
Laugh at the past with this Where Community Connects blog post about the last decade of the 20th century. Dreaming of the ‘90s: Moments in Pop Culture That Live in My Head Rent Free links to materials that will take you back to that wonderful period.
Kitchener-Waterloo Comedy Festival
You’ll have to wait until 2022 for this local comedy show, but in the meantime, why not explore their video content. You might find a new favourite comedian or comedic genre to enjoy.