Meet our Volunteers: Marje Wing

Marje Wing was working as manager of Memorial Park and Giuffre Family Library (then known as Alexander Calhoun Library) back in 2014, when architects first shared the plans for Calgary’s new Central Library building. Standing at the back of the room, where Calgarians had gathered for the unveiling, Marje remembers feeling blown away by the plans.

Fast forward four years and Marje — who is now retired — will start leading patrons through the stunning new Library this November, as a volunteer guide for architecture tours. “I’m very excited,” she says.

It’s just the latest volunteer endeavour for Marje, who retired from a nearly 35-year career at Calgary Public Library in 2015. About a year later she began volunteering at the Library.

“I really believe in the Library. I love what the Library stands for,” Marje says. “This is my way of continuing to contribute to the Library.”

Marje has volunteered with a variety of programs, including ESL programs, Special Events, and Colossal Playdates. “There’s such a huge range of things that you can do as a volunteer. You can find a fit with whatever your interests are,” Marje says.

The same reasons that drew Marje to Calgary Public Library as an employee — that it’s a democratic institution, open to everyone — continue to inspire her as a volunteer. Plus, her new gig is a lot of fun.

“I get on the floor with the babies at the playdates. I work one-on-one with an ESL student. I get to do things that are so different from when I was working,” she says. “Every time I do a shift at the Library, I come away with a bounce in my step.”

Azmin Poonja, Manager, Volunteer Resources, describes Marje as a passionate and committed volunteer. “She is professional, accountable, and a natural leader. Marje is a great asset to our team of volunteers,” Azmin says.

Calgary Public Library is recruiting volunteers for all libraries. If you would like to join the Library's team of volunteers, please visit the Volunteers page.