Library Updates on COVID-19

Calgary Public Library locations are open.

Calgary Public Library locations are open, in addition to offering a wide range of virtual and contactless services. The health and safety of our employees and visitors remain our top priority, and we are committed to providing as much service as safely possible. 

• Browsing physical collections
• Printing and copying*
• Wi-Fi
• Desktop and Chromebook access*
• Study space*
• Public meeting room bookings at select locations
• Eating and drinking in public areas 
• Indoor seating for groups

• Interior book returns and exterior return chutes
• Early Learning Centres and access to small toys
• Wellness Desk
• Third-party poster displays 

• Third party events

*All locations except Rocky Ridge

Mask guidelines

As of March 1, masks are optional for Library visitors in public Library spaces, in accordance with provincial recommendations.

Staff and patrons are asked to self-monitor for COVID-19 symptoms and are not to enter any Library location if they meet criteria for self-isolation.

In-person programs

In-person programming will be available at select locations starting April 4. Browse virtual and in-person options for all ages in our program guide.

Sanitization stations

Hand sanitizer is available when you enter the Library and throughout each location. We ask that you please maintain hand sanitizing practices during your Library visit.

Physical distancing

Physical distancing in public and staff areas is encouraged, but not required as of March 1. Capacity limits have been removed at all locations, and we encourage everyone to practice physical distancing when possible.

How can I return Library materials?

Materials can be returned inside when the Library is open. Exterior book return chutes also remain open during and after open hours at most Library locations.

I have a hold ready, can I pick it up?

Yes, you can enter the Library to pick up your holds.

My book is due, but I can’t come to the Library. What do I do?

Your items will automatically renew the morning of their due date, up to four times. If you receive email notifications from the Library, an email will be sent on the due date to let you know whether auto-renewal was successful.

The Library has permanently moved to a Fine Free model to help Calgarians during this challenging time and reduce barriers to service.

Library Hotline

Our staff are here to answer all your questions. Need a book recommendation, tech support, help with schoolwork, or information about current events?

Call the Library Hotline at 403.260.2600 or contact us online.

What you can do to help

• Cover your mouth with a tissue or your sleeve when coughing or sneezing
• Discard used tissues immediately
• Wash your hands often for at least 20 seconds with soap and water or use hand sanitizer that is 60–90% alcohol-based
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands
• Practice social distancing by keeping a six-foot distance from other people
• Stay home if you are not feeling well or experiencing flu-like symptoms. Contact your doctor. Call 811 if you need connection to a medical professional.

Health Alerts and Information

• Alberta Health Services Online Screening
• COVID-19 coronavirus info for Albertans
• Government of Canada
• World Health Organization

211 Alberta
Find information and community resources including mental health and support with basic needs.

AHS Text4Hope
Text4Hope is a free service providing three months of daily Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) based text messages written by mental health therapists.

Calgary Connect Teen
Phone, text, chat, or find resources for teens and parents. Run by the Calgary Distress Centre.

Calgary Distress Centre
24-hour crisis support through over the phone counselling.

Coping and Connection for Children and Families During COVID-19 PDF
Find information and support from Alberta Health Services about mental health for children and families during COVID-19

Coping with stress during the 2019-nCoV outbreak PDF
Find tips for coping with stress, from the World Health Organization.

COVID-19 and Your Mental Health PDF
Find information and tips from Alberta Health Services on COVID-19 and mental health.

Healthy Together
Your guide to family and home life during COVID-19. Each weekday, Alberta Health Services posts a new story about how families can be healthy, active, and safe during these changing times.

Help in Tough Times
Find links to support and resources from Alberta Health Services.

Helping children cope with stress during the 2019-nCoV outbreak PDF
Find tips for helping children cope with stress, from the World Health Organization

Kids Help Phone Canada
Phone, text, chat, or find resources for children and families looking for support during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mental Health Wellness Videos
A series of short (one to 2.5 minutes) videos on mental wellness by a doctor from Alberta Health Services on a variety of topics.

MoreGoodDays
Receive a daily dose of inspiration and advice, straight to your phone via text message. This project was started by a University of Alberta researcher to support mental health during the pandemic.

Practical and Emotional Preparedness for a Pandemic PDF
Easy-to-read information from Alberta Health Services to help you prepare and maintain healthy habits during a pandemic.

Wellness Desk
Access free support for mental health challenges and addictions by calling 403.299.9699 or visiting a participating Library location.