Five reasons the Library is a Parent's Best Friend

Calgary Public Library loves parents, and we know parents love us right back. Many of our Library spaces and programs are designed with new parents in mind — right down to the Moms’ Stairway at Central Library. Here are five reasons the Library is a parent’s best friend.  

1. Library programs 

Whether you’re a first-time parent or a veteran, Library programs are a perfect way to connect with your baby, help set the foundations of literacy, and meet other caregivers with babies at similar ages and stages. From Baby Rhyme Time and 1-2-3: Count With Me through to Words and Wiggles, there’s a Library program to support you and your child on your early literacy journey. Browse all Library programs.

2. Library spaces  

We know how hard it can be to find a free space for you and your child to hang out and explore. Our 13 Early Learning Centres are built with your family in mind. There are lots of opportunities for you and your child to engage in play or let your little explorer try out age-appropriate toys and activities on their own. As your children get older, Questionariums and Teen Centres are there to keep your big kids busy. Learn more about Library spaces.

3. Fine-free lending  

Did you know that Calgary Public Library is fine free? Never worry about returning a book late, again! We don’t want fees to stand in the way of you and your family’s love of reading or the ability to access programs and materials. Worried about fines you previously received? Existing fines prior to July 1, 2020, were forgiven when fine free was introduced. Get the details.

4. Printing  

It’s 6:00 pm on a Thursday and your kid lets you know that their teacher gave them five different assignments to work on over the long weekend — and it all needs to be downloaded and printed out. You don’t own a printer and your family of five has plans starting at 8:00 am tomorrow. Don’t worry, we have you covered. Every Library member gets $5 of printing credit on their account that automatically reloads on the first of the month, every month. Maybe you’ll want to print some extra colouring and activity sheets too. Read about printing.

5. Meeting other caregivers 

Taking your kids to family programs is a great way to meet other parents, but the Library is also a place to celebrate you and what you love! We have programs like DIY Book Club to help you start reading with folks who love the same kind of books as you, or New Friends and Neighbourhood Groups for Newcomer Women to practise English skills and meet other newcomers in the community. Find a program for your interests.

What do you love about the Library? We’d love to hear from you. Follow us on all social platforms @calgarylibrary and let us know what your favourite thing about the Library is.