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The Historian in Residence is a six-month paid residency that supports individual researchers working in any genre related to the social, cultural and built history of Calgary, Treaty 7 and Métis Region 3.
They deliver free programs and act as a mentor to historians, writers, and researchers through individual consultations, and curate an exhibit at Central Library.
Presented in partnership with Heritage Calgary.
Shelly McElroy has a background in education, agriculture, counselling, and museums and is the curator of Pioneer Acres Museum in Irricana, Alberta. Her work considers how agriculture shaped life in Calgary and area in the early twentieth century — and how it still does.
Shelly will be providing talks and tours to help Library members understand the work involved in running a museum: making phone calls, having 35 browser tabs open on a computer, figuring out what kinds of ant traps work best, but also considering the changing role of museums and reflecting on their significance as we move into an increasingly digital future.
Shelly thinks we are happiest when we spend time in nature, take daily walks, have moments to reflect, and find stories that give us context, meaning, and hope: “What can we learn from the past that can help us live more appreciative and thoughtful lives today?”
Shelly is available for one-on one virtual consultations:
Wednesdays, 6 – 8 pm
Fridays, 2 – 6 pm
To book a one-hour consultation, please use the calendar booking link.
Attend online programs with Shelly McElroy during her residency. Registration is available online.
