Library Volunteers Recognized at Awards Event

On Friday, November 9, Calgary Public Library proudly celebrated its 4,300 volunteers at the 44th annual Volunteer Recognition Awards ceremony, held at Central Library.

Library volunteers allow the Library to offer more programs to Calgarians, in more locations, more often. Every year, our volunteers contribute more than 80,000 hours of their time to the Library. During the recent four-day opening celebrations for Central Library, 400 roles were filled by volunteers, who contributed over 1,500 hours. For the tours alone, volunteers engaged with over 1,800 patrons.

Volunteers help the Library enhance services and strengthen connections to the community. They help ensure that there is universal access to resources that lead Calgary Public Library members to learn, be inspired, and connect to their community. Library volunteers give their time, energy, and talent — and our members are the direct beneficiaries every year.

The following outstanding volunteers received awards at the event:

• Milestone Service Award – Margaret Manko
• Rising Star Award – Kim Dolny
• Emerging Leaders Award – Abby Goldstein
• Bright Futures Scholarship – Alisha Elbrahim
• Teamwork Award – Dr. Susan Bennett and Dr. Stefania Forlini
• Legacy Award – William Musani
• Library Builder Award – Janet Hutchinson
• Library Builder Award – Patricia Moore

Youth volunteers are integral to the work of the Library. Over 55% of our volunteers are between the ages of 12 – 17. The celebration featured a youth speaker, Asha Nenshi Nathoo, who volunteers for several programs including ELL school success, Action Squad, Conoco Phillips Reading Buddies, and special events.

Thank you to each one of our volunteers for another year of incredible volunteering. Your work is an integral part of a strong and vibrant Calgary. You ensure our city and our country is Library strong!