The Library is more than just a collection of books; we're your trusted guides to a world of stories. Whether you're a seasoned reader or just starting out, our curated recommendations will lead you to your next great read. So, sit back, relax, and let us be your companions on your literary adventure.
Every day, the Library's Collection team does extensive research to decide what books will be added to our shelves. From looking at trends, knowing the interests of our community, and understanding the importance of accessibility, the team anticipates what books will be in high demand or most popular.
With these observations, the Collections team was able to carefully select the Library's 2024 Books of the Year. View the list below for our top recommendations for adults, young adults, and children. Need more suggestions? The "If You Liked the Books of the Year" list has additional titles that you can check out.
Calgary Public Library’s 2024 Books of the Year include a diverse mix of reading that includes a book from a local author, titles of critical acclaim, and what selectors said was one of the funniest kids books.
Try these read-alikes our selectors chose if you enjoyed any of the Books of the Year.
Sometimes you just can't wait for that next great read. Don't worry, we've got you covered.
Libby offers some options to get you that digital read fast.
Skip the Line - 7 Day Loans
The items in this collection have 7 day loan periods and cannot be renewed. You can sign out three Skip the Line titles at a time.
Great Reads Without the Wait
These Ebooks are always available. They make a great choice for a buddy read.
Excited about the latest paperback releases? Come explore our New! paperbacks display at the Library and pick up your newest reads.
Remember, there are no holds on these titles, just the joy of browsing.
We are frequently adding new items to our collection which will soon be available. Although these items aren't on our shelves yet, you can still place them on hold.
Book clubs are a great way to meet and create lasting connections with people who have similar reading interests to you. Start a new book club or take your existing one to the next level with free resources.
Reserve a meeting room at one of our 20 library locations, absolutely free, to gather and chat about your latest book club selection. Alternatively, consider meeting virtually to ensure accessibility for all members. Many of our meeting rooms are equipped for both virtual and in-person gatherings, offering the tools you need for a seamless hybrid experience.
It's the spookiest time of the year and these are our best picks for ghosts, monsters, haunted houses, and horror. Don't say we didn't warn you!
Whether you're in the mood for something fatally funny, a culinary crime, or senior sleuths, this list will be sure to keep you cozy as you do some armchair investigating.
Reading was never more fun! Whether looking for action, romance, twisty thrills, or escape to a whole other world, these authors know the value of high-quality entertainment.
Enjoy dining outdoors on warm summer days and nights next to the fire with this selection of titles to inspire BBQs, Al Fresco dining, and fresh ideas.
From the domesticated to the wild, the brutally raw to the sleekly polished, catch the whole spectrum of queer fiction with these freshest of the fresh staff picks!
Fill your Summer Challenge Maps with smart, explosive, action-packed thrillers. Yes! Adults can have fun reading too.
“I love learning something new that changes my mind or worldview on a topic."
“The best part of reading is escaping into other worlds, finding pieces of myself in them, quieting the chaos of my mind in favour of the chaos of someone else's."
“Reading lets me fall into another world, opens my mind to different perspectives, and connect with ideas I normally wouldn't have the chance to access."
“I read whenever I can. I love the fact that I am able to just transfer into a new world and feel the emotions that the character feels.”
“Gritty, atmospheric fantasy novels are my favourite, so it's always the story of an unlikely hero on a quest to save their world against insurmountable odds."
These booklists offer something for every reader, from timeless classics to contemporary gems
Favourite picks by some of our favourite guests — including authors, artists, historians and more.
Discover a variety of book lists specially selected for young adults, covering different genres and themes to satisfy every reader's interests.
A collection of booklists celebrating Indigenous voices and stories.
Music that's as cool and crisp as the Autumn season.
Celebrate the single life.
Icons and Anthems
Classical music from black composers who changed the course of music history.
Films from Kanopy and NFB that celebrate 2SLGBTQ+ lives, experiences, and stories.
Have an Oscar-themed movie night by streaming these past winners and nominees for free with your library card on Kanopy!
Stream for free with your library card these great Canadian films on Kanopy. In honour of National Canadian Film Day
This International Women's Day, celebrate women's achievements of yesterday, today and tomorrow with these inspiring films by and about women.
Relais allows you to request titles from across the province, or you can apply for a TAL card or ME card to borrow items in-person at libraries across Alberta.
