Calgary Public Library no longer charges fines for overdue Library materials. Please note that items 35 days overdue will be considered lost. You can renew items online though your account or contact staff here.
It’s easy and convenient to borrow, place holds, renew, and return your items, either online or in person at any community Library.
Read more about "Borrow, place holds, renew, and return your items."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 the auto-renewal was successful.
Read more about "Your items automatically renew."You can keep books, magazines, CDs, and audiobooks for three weeks, and DVDs and Blu-rays for one week.
Read more about "Library loans for three weeks."Clarence Wolfleg Sr. Clarence Wolfleg Sr. (Agar) is from the Siksika Nation. His traditional name, Miiksika'am , translates to “Red Crane.” This traditional Siksika name was also his fourth great grandfather’s name, who watched their eastern Siksika boundaries for many years back in the late 1700s. Clarence attended the Old Sun Indian Residential School in Siksika and was registered by the name Agar Wolfleg. He later used his correct name, Clarence Victor Wolfleg, which came from his god father, a Siksika Chief named Chief Clarence McHugh. Clarence McHugh’s wife’s name was Victoria. In 2013, Clarence finished his last term with Siksika Nation Chief & Council. He was elected for ten terms as a member of Siksika Council and served under many Siksika chiefs. Clarence is a member of the Sacred Horns’ Society (Transfer of Sacred Bundle 2015) and the Brave Dog Society, which are traditional Blackfoot Societies. He is a five-year veteran of International Peace Keeping (NATO & UN) in the mid 1960s. Upon his return from the Peace Keeping Initiative, he became a police officer and served 14 years as RCMP Supernumerary Constable, and later as Alberta Special Constable. Clarence also served as Chief of Police for the Siksika Nation and worked for Corrections Canada. He was also employed with the Native Counselling Services of Alberta (Native Programs Coordinator, Southern Alberta Area Supervisor) and was one of the first AADAC Outpatient Directors and trained through Nechi (Addictions Counsellor). Presently Clarence is recognized as a Siksika Traditional Spiritual Leader by Siksika Nation and is a spiritual advisor (Elder) at MRU, BVC (Iniikokaan Centre), Sunrise Addiction Services, Heritage Park, Calgary Board of Education, SAIT, and City of Calgary. On November 5, 2020, Clarence was honoured by MRU with an Honorary B.A. in Sociology, and in 2021, Clarence was honored again from MRU with an honorary Doctorate of Law.
Read more about "Clarence Wolfleg Sr."Come Discover What's New and Wonderful at Calgary Public Library on Love Your Library Day MEDIA RELEASEFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEJuly 17, 2018Calgary, AB — Everybody is invited to Calgary Public Library’s Love Your Library Day, a one-day event at all 20 libraries across the city on Saturday, August 18. This free event is for all, from avid Library users to those curious about what the Library can offer.“As we near November 1, all eyes are on New Central Library,” says Bill Ptacek, CEO for Calgary Public Library. “Love Your Library Day is an exciting opportunity to celebrate our incredible members and highlight our entire Library system that reaches so many people each day. We’ve never held a city-wide open house like this before, and we’re especially delighted at the chance to introduce more Calgarians to Calgary Public Library.”Love Your Library Day will run from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at each location. Staff have a jam-packed schedule of activities planned, including a city-wide storytime featuring special guests at 11:00 am, family programming, behind-the-scenes Library tours, musical performances, collaborative art and story walls, scavenger hunts, and face painting.On the day, people can celebrate how the Library has made a difference in their life, learn about new services and programs, enjoy refreshments, and enter to win one of 20 door prizes. The Calgary Public Library Foundation will also be selling special limited-edition commemorative community library tote bags on Love Your Library Day for $10 (regular $15). All sales proceeds will support the essential work of the Calgary Public Library.Love Your Library Day is also a perfect time to introduce someone you know to the Library. Whether it’s been a few years since they last checked out a book, or are visiting for the first time — bring a friend to your local Library, sign up for a free Library membership on August 18 and you will both be entered to win our Refer a Friend Grand Prize, valued at nearly $1,000, which includes:Calgary Public Library late fine forgiveness $100 gift certificate and other prizes from Lukes Drug Mart A six-month membership and other prizes from YMCA Four guest passes and other prizes from Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre Literary swag from the Library Store For more details on special programs related to Love Your Library, please visit calgarylibrary.ca/Love-Your-Library.Community Libraries Get Freshened UpDuring the construction of the new Central Library, the entire system has received a facelift, with all community Library locations being renovated before the November 1 opening. These renovations include new furniture, fresh paint, enhanced technology, more meeting spaces, and 10 Early Learning Centres. Stay tuned for refreshed spaces at Village Square Library and Country Hills Library this fall!Your Library Membership BenefitsYour free Calgary Public Library card gives you access to books, eBooks, programs, online resource, printing, plus much more. Free membership benefits include:Browse and borrow print and digital books, audiobooks, music, movies, magazines, newspapers, and more. E-Library access to more than 100 Digital Resources. Read digital books with OverDrive, learn a language with Rosetta Stone, take online courses with Lynda.com, watch movies with Kanopy, and listen to music with Freegal. Online resource for kids, including animated read-along story books with TumbleBook Library and tutoring with Brainfuse. Access to Early Learning Centres, where children can learn through play. Book free meeting rooms around the city. Free WiFi and three hours of computer use per day. Borrow Chromebook laptops for in-Library use. Up to $5 of free printing per month. Hundreds of free in-person programs for everybody. Calgary Public Library Calgary Public Library, with 650,000+ members and 20 locations, has been inspiring the life stories of Calgarians for more than 100 years. It is currently the second largest library system in Canada and the sixth largest municipal library system in North America, with Calgarians borrowing more than 14.6 million physical and digital items and with 6.8 million in-person visits last year. The awe-inspiring 240,000 sq. ft. Central Library — the newest gathering place for our city — opens November 1, 2018.- 30 -Media Contact:Mary KapustaDirector, CommunicationsCalgary Public Library403-774-7256mary.kapusta@calgarylibrary.ca
Read more about "Stories"Rosemary Griebel, Design Lead for Readers’ Services at the Calgary Public Library, started writing poetry as soon as she could start forming letters on a page. She started practising poetry more seriously 15 years ago, when she took a course with Richard Harrison, a Calgary poet and professor. Harrison won this year’s Governor General’s Literary Award for Poetry.Rosemary’s favourite kinds of poetry are music, spoken word, and form poetry. However, she most often reads lyrical and free verse. Rosemary has advice for aspiring poets: “Read, read more, and keep on reading!”“I really believe that if you don’t have a passion for reading you won’t have the right passion for writing,” she said.One of her poetry mentors, Patrick Lane, said it is important to learn from the masters, and the only way you can learn from the masters is by reading them.If you’re an aspiring poet, follow Rosemary’s top five tips to start writing:Just breatheIn the Inuit language Inuktitut, the words “to breathe” and “to make a poem” are the same. Rosemary thinks of this often as it provides her the freedom to just sit down and write and see what appears, without worrying about meaning or listening to her inner critic. You must start somewhere, and it starts with that first word or sentence. Welcome what comes. The poems choosing you are the ones that need to be written.Commit to a regular time to writeFor Rosemary, it is early morning when her mind is clear and the world is quiet. But for many, it is late at night when the rest of the house is sleeping.Take inspiration from the world around youSometimes we forget that what is most miraculous is the ordinary. What poetry does best, is to make us see the familiar with awe.Be proud of your voiceAlways remember that what you write only you can write. Use of language and experiences are unique, so be proud of your authentic voice and experience. Find your method and voice, and then sing loud.Be patientBe patient and don’t be afraid of failure. It takes a lifetime to learn a craft and failure is part of the journey.
Read more about "Stories Poetic Advice from Rosemary Griebel, Local Poet and Longtime Writer"Building Success Through Play Media ReleaseJanuary 18, 2017Calgary, AB — Starting this summer, 16,000 community kids under 17 years of age will benefit from Forest Lawn Library’s Nature Playground— thanks to the Canada 150 Infrastructure Program (CIP150).“Celebrating Canada’s 150th birthday with the creation of a nature playground is an incredible way to ensure everyone understands how foundational play is to all future learning,” says Bill Ptacek, CEO, Calgary Public Library.Calgarians have the opportunity to help us match this generous contribution and raise the full amount needed to build this outdoor early learning centre and empower Forest Lawn families towards a brighter future.”Safe outdoor spaces inspire active, fresh-air-filled play that supports the early learning needs of Calgary’s youngest citizens, helping them develop physical literacy skills and executive brain function, as well as learn about the world around them…putting them on the pathway to future success in school and beyond.The CIP150 contribution of $119,000 was announced January 17 by The Honourable Kent Hehr, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, who spoke about the role infrastructure plays in helping Canadians build better lives by learning how to care, share, and play together.Forest Lawn Library is an oasis in this diverse community where families can face particular challenges including low literacy levels and high unemployment, creating a barrier to learning and play opportunities. Forest Lawn Library is a vibrant community hub with more than 272,000 in-person visits annually, providing hundreds of free literacy and numeracy programs each year.The Calgary Public Library Foundation has a goal of raising $51,000 to complete the funding for this project. View the PLAY! video and for more information, or to make a donation, visit addin.ca.Calgary Public LibraryCalgary Public Library, with 570,000+ members, has been inspiring the life stories of Calgarians for more than 100 years. It is currently the second largest library system in Canada and the sixth largest municipal library system in North America, with Calgarians borrowing more than 16.1 million physical and digital items and with 6.2 million in-person visits last year. Preparations are underway for the awe-inspiring 245,000 sq. ft. New Central Library, to open in late 2018.Add In—the Campaign for Calgary’s LibraryAdd In is a bold and transformational initiative of the Calgary Public Library Foundation to create the best public library in the world for Calgarians. The $350 million city-wide campaign will build capacity for each and every community library and will include projects with a strong impact for Library patrons.
Read more about "Stories"Early Learning Investment will Prepare Calgary's Children for Lifelong Learning and Success MEDIA RELEASEFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEDecember 7, 2017Calgary, AB — Local children and families participating in a colossal playdate helped to celebrate the opening of the fourth and final Calgary Foundation Early Learning Centre at Crowfoot Library today.“Play is such an important part of building literacy skills for children,” says Eva Friesen, President & CEO, Calgary Foundation. “We’re so pleased to support these Early Learning Centres that allow youth to grow and learn by being creative and using their imagination at such an important stage of their lives.”Early Learning Centres are vibrant and interactive spaces that focus on play-based learning — one of the five focus areas outlined in the Library’s Early Learning Strategy released earlier this year. Each centre is built around a distinct theme, including energy and motion at Forest Lawn Library, a construction site for little builders at Signal Hill and a “Birds Eye View” that overlooks the clear mountain views at Crowfoot Library.In September, the Calgary Public Library Foundation announced the $1 million transformational investment in early learning from the Calgary Foundation and an anonymous donor. Funding from the Major & Signature Grant established Calgary Foundation Early Learning Centres at Saddletowne, Signal Hill, Forest Lawn and the new space at Crowfoot Library — the busiest community library in the city. The gift will also enhance early learning training for staff and volunteers. The Calgary Foundation is a Founding Partner of Add In—the Campaign for Calgary’s Library.“Thanks to Calgary Foundation and its anonymous donor, we have opened four new Early Learning Centres in the last four months,” said Ellen Humphrey, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Calgary Public Library Foundation. “We want to create a world-leading library model for Early Learning, which includes an Early Learning Centre in every library in the city, but we can’t do it alone.”Through the Library Foundation, the Library is seeking $20 million of philanthropic investment in early learning to support the Library’s Early Learning Strategyopens a new window, which focuses on spaces, people, collections, programs and research. There are more than 89,000 children under the age of five in our city, and research shows that healthy development in early childhood sets the course for a child’s future.To support early learning at the Library, visit addin.ca/early-learning.Calgary Public LibraryCalgary Public Library, with 600,000+ members, has been inspiring the life stories of Calgarians for more than 100 years. It is currently the second largest library system in Canada and the sixth largest municipal library system in North America, with Calgarians borrowing more than 15.8 million physical and digital items and with 6.7 million in-person visits last year. Preparations are underway for the awe-inspiring 240,000 sq. ft. New Central Library, to open in late 2018.Calgary Public Library FoundationAdd In—the Campaign for Calgary’s Library, is the largest public campaign for a public library in Canadian history. The $350 million campaign will support a system of community libraries across Calgary and activate and enhance the New Central Library. To learn more about Add In and the Calgary Public Library’s vision to create the best public library in the world for Calgarians, visit addin.ca.Calgary FoundationSince 1955, Calgary Foundation has been nurturing a healthy, vibrant, giving and caring community that values diversity and supports all people. We build a community where citizens are engaged, and where a strong and sustainable charitable sector serves the current and emerging needs of Calgary and area.- 30 -Media Contacts:Mary KapustaDirector, CommunicationsCalgary Public LibraryP: 403.774.7256mary.kapusta@calgarylibrary.caRachael TernerManager of CommunicationsCalgary Public Library FoundationC: 403.680.0626rachael@addin.caJanice FranceyCommunications AssociateCalgary FoundationC: 403.617.1998JFrancey@calgaryfoundation.org
Read more about "Stories"Come Discover What's New and Wonderful at Calgary Public Library on Love Your Library Day MEDIA RELEASEFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEJuly 17, 2018Calgary, AB — Everybody is invited to Calgary Public Library’s Love Your Library Day, a one-day event at all 20 libraries across the city on Saturday, August 18. This free event is for all, from avid Library users to those curious about what the Library can offer.“As we near November 1, all eyes are on New Central Library,” says Bill Ptacek, CEO for Calgary Public Library. “Love Your Library Day is an exciting opportunity to celebrate our incredible members and highlight our entire Library system that reaches so many people each day. We’ve never held a city-wide open house like this before, and we’re especially delighted at the chance to introduce more Calgarians to Calgary Public Library.”Love Your Library Day will run from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at each location. Staff have a jam-packed schedule of activities planned, including a city-wide storytime featuring special guests at 11:00 am, family programming, behind-the-scenes Library tours, musical performances, collaborative art and story walls, scavenger hunts, and face painting.On the day, people can celebrate how the Library has made a difference in their life, learn about new services and programs, enjoy refreshments, and enter to win one of 20 door prizes. The Calgary Public Library Foundation will also be selling special limited-edition commemorative community library tote bags on Love Your Library Day for $10 (regular $15). All sales proceeds will support the essential work of the Calgary Public Library.Love Your Library Day is also a perfect time to introduce someone you know to the Library. Whether it’s been a few years since they last checked out a book, or are visiting for the first time — bring a friend to your local Library, sign up for a free Library membership on August 18 and you will both be entered to win our Refer a Friend Grand Prize, valued at nearly $1,000, which includes:Calgary Public Library late fine forgiveness $100 gift certificate and other prizes from Lukes Drug Mart A six-month membership and other prizes from YMCA Four guest passes and other prizes from Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre Literary swag from the Library Store For more details on special programs related to Love Your Library, please visit calgarylibrary.ca/Love-Your-Library.Community Libraries Get Freshened UpDuring the construction of the new Central Library, the entire system has received a facelift, with all community Library locations being renovated before the November 1 opening. These renovations include new furniture, fresh paint, enhanced technology, more meeting spaces, and 10 Early Learning Centres. Stay tuned for refreshed spaces at Village Square Library and Country Hills Library this fall!Your Library Membership BenefitsYour free Calgary Public Library card gives you access to books, eBooks, programs, online resource, printing, plus much more. Free membership benefits include:Browse and borrow print and digital books, audiobooks, music, movies, magazines, newspapers, and more. E-Library access to more than 100 Digital Resources. Read digital books with OverDrive, learn a language with Rosetta Stone, take online courses with Lynda.com, watch movies with Kanopy, and listen to music with Freegal. Online resource for kids, including animated read-along story books with TumbleBook Library and tutoring with Brainfuse. Access to Early Learning Centres, where children can learn through play. Book free meeting rooms around the city. Free WiFi and three hours of computer use per day. Borrow Chromebook laptops for in-Library use. Up to $5 of free printing per month. Hundreds of free in-person programs for everybody. Calgary Public Library Calgary Public Library, with 650,000+ members and 20 locations, has been inspiring the life stories of Calgarians for more than 100 years. It is currently the second largest library system in Canada and the sixth largest municipal library system in North America, with Calgarians borrowing more than 14.6 million physical and digital items and with 6.8 million in-person visits last year. The awe-inspiring 240,000 sq. ft. Central Library — the newest gathering place for our city — opens November 1, 2018.- 30 -Media Contact:Mary KapustaDirector, CommunicationsCalgary Public Library403-774-7256mary.kapusta@calgarylibrary.ca
Read more about "Stories"New Nature Playground Fosters Early Learning for Calgary’s Kids Calgary, AB — Calgary Public Library unveiled its first outdoor Early Learning Centre today at Forest Lawn Library. The Forest Lawn Library Nature Playground will help Calgary’s kids learn and develop foundational skills through play and was made possible with the support of the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program and Friends of the Library.“The Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program represents a sense of unity for Canadians,” said the Honourable Kent Hehr, Minister of Veteran Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence. “The Forest Lawn Library Nature Playground will bring community members together through a shared interest in learning more about our environment and the outdoors.”The Forest Lawn Library Nature Playground is a fully accessible space featuring large-scale letters for children to play in, under, and around, surfaces for writing and drawing, and moveable elements that children can interact with. Raised berms provide a sensory and spatial feature, which will support creative play and exploration.“We know that learning happens everywhere, especially for children,” says Bill Ptacek, Calgary Public Library CEO. “This new destination will provide 16,000 neighbourhood kids—and even more across the city—with a free and safe place to learn, imagine, and explore their environment.”Early learning and outdoor learning research guided the design of the Forest Lawn Library Nature Playground, which was constructed using a variety of recycled materials, including steel for the fencing and benches, recovered wood for safety surfacing and tree stump seating that would have otherwise become firewood.Since 2016, Calgary Public Library has opened Early Learning Centres at five libraries. The Forest Lawn Library Nature Playground is its first outdoor Early Learning space. For more information on how you can support early learning and the creation of spaces like the Forest Lawn Library Nature Playground, visit www.libraryfriends.ca.Calgary Public LibraryCalgary Public Library, with 600,000+ members, has been inspiring the life stories of Calgarians for more than 100 years. It is currently the second largest library system in Canada and the sixth largest municipal library system in North America, with Calgarians borrowing more than 15.8 million physical and digital items and with 6.7 million in-person visits last year. Preparations are underway for the awe-inspiring 240,000 sq. ft. New Central Library, to open in late 2018.Calgary Public Library FoundationAdd In—the Campaign for Calgary’s Library, is the largest public campaign for a public library in Canadian history. The $350 million campaign will enhance and support a system of community libraries across Calgary and is inspired by the New Central Library, which will open its doors to the world in 2018. To learn more about Add In and the Calgary Public Library’s vision to create the best public library in the world for Calgarians, visit addin.ca.-30-Media Contacts:Rachael TernerManager of CommunicationsCalgary Public Library FoundationC: 403.680.0626rachael@addin.ca
Read more about "Stories"New Nature Playground Fosters Early Learning for Calgary’s Kids Calgary, AB — Calgary Public Library unveiled its first outdoor Early Learning Centre today at Forest Lawn Library. The Forest Lawn Library Nature Playground will help Calgary’s kids learn and develop foundational skills through play and was made possible with the support of the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program and Friends of the Library.“The Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program represents a sense of unity for Canadians,” said the Honourable Kent Hehr, Minister of Veteran Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence. “The Forest Lawn Library Nature Playground will bring community members together through a shared interest in learning more about our environment and the outdoors.”The Forest Lawn Library Nature Playground is a fully accessible space featuring large-scale letters for children to play in, under, and around, surfaces for writing and drawing, and moveable elements that children can interact with. Raised berms provide a sensory and spatial feature, which will support creative play and exploration.“We know that learning happens everywhere, especially for children,” says Bill Ptacek, Calgary Public Library CEO. “This new destination will provide 16,000 neighbourhood kids—and even more across the city—with a free and safe place to learn, imagine, and explore their environment.”Early learning and outdoor learning research guided the design of the Forest Lawn Library Nature Playground, which was constructed using a variety of recycled materials, including steel for the fencing and benches, recovered wood for safety surfacing and tree stump seating that would have otherwise become firewood.Since 2016, Calgary Public Library has opened Early Learning Centres at five libraries. The Forest Lawn Library Nature Playground is its first outdoor Early Learning space. For more information on how you can support early learning and the creation of spaces like the Forest Lawn Library Nature Playground, visit www.libraryfriends.ca.Calgary Public LibraryCalgary Public Library, with 600,000+ members, has been inspiring the life stories of Calgarians for more than 100 years. It is currently the second largest library system in Canada and the sixth largest municipal library system in North America, with Calgarians borrowing more than 15.8 million physical and digital items and with 6.7 million in-person visits last year. Preparations are underway for the awe-inspiring 240,000 sq. ft. New Central Library, to open in late 2018.Calgary Public Library FoundationAdd In—the Campaign for Calgary’s Library, is the largest public campaign for a public library in Canadian history. The $350 million campaign will enhance and support a system of community libraries across Calgary and is inspired by the New Central Library, which will open its doors to the world in 2018. To learn more about Add In and the Calgary Public Library’s vision to create the best public library in the world for Calgarians, visit addin.ca.-30-Media Contacts:Rachael TernerManager of CommunicationsCalgary Public Library FoundationC: 403.680.0626rachael@addin.ca
Read more about "Stories"Early Learning Investment will Prepare Calgary's Children for Lifelong Learning and Success MEDIA RELEASEFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEDecember 7, 2017Calgary, AB — Local children and families participating in a colossal playdate helped to celebrate the opening of the fourth and final Calgary Foundation Early Learning Centre at Crowfoot Library today.“Play is such an important part of building literacy skills for children,” says Eva Friesen, President & CEO, Calgary Foundation. “We’re so pleased to support these Early Learning Centres that allow youth to grow and learn by being creative and using their imagination at such an important stage of their lives.”Early Learning Centres are vibrant and interactive spaces that focus on play-based learning — one of the five focus areas outlined in the Library’s Early Learning Strategy released earlier this year. Each centre is built around a distinct theme, including energy and motion at Forest Lawn Library, a construction site for little builders at Signal Hill and a “Birds Eye View” that overlooks the clear mountain views at Crowfoot Library.In September, the Calgary Public Library Foundation announced the $1 million transformational investment in early learning from the Calgary Foundation and an anonymous donor. Funding from the Major & Signature Grant established Calgary Foundation Early Learning Centres at Saddletowne, Signal Hill, Forest Lawn and the new space at Crowfoot Library — the busiest community library in the city. The gift will also enhance early learning training for staff and volunteers. The Calgary Foundation is a Founding Partner of Add In—the Campaign for Calgary’s Library.“Thanks to Calgary Foundation and its anonymous donor, we have opened four new Early Learning Centres in the last four months,” said Ellen Humphrey, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Calgary Public Library Foundation. “We want to create a world-leading library model for Early Learning, which includes an Early Learning Centre in every library in the city, but we can’t do it alone.”Through the Library Foundation, the Library is seeking $20 million of philanthropic investment in early learning to support the Library’s Early Learning Strategyopens a new window, which focuses on spaces, people, collections, programs and research. There are more than 89,000 children under the age of five in our city, and research shows that healthy development in early childhood sets the course for a child’s future.To support early learning at the Library, visit addin.ca/early-learning.Calgary Public LibraryCalgary Public Library, with 600,000+ members, has been inspiring the life stories of Calgarians for more than 100 years. It is currently the second largest library system in Canada and the sixth largest municipal library system in North America, with Calgarians borrowing more than 15.8 million physical and digital items and with 6.7 million in-person visits last year. Preparations are underway for the awe-inspiring 240,000 sq. ft. New Central Library, to open in late 2018.Calgary Public Library FoundationAdd In—the Campaign for Calgary’s Library, is the largest public campaign for a public library in Canadian history. The $350 million campaign will support a system of community libraries across Calgary and activate and enhance the New Central Library. To learn more about Add In and the Calgary Public Library’s vision to create the best public library in the world for Calgarians, visit addin.ca.Calgary FoundationSince 1955, Calgary Foundation has been nurturing a healthy, vibrant, giving and caring community that values diversity and supports all people. We build a community where citizens are engaged, and where a strong and sustainable charitable sector serves the current and emerging needs of Calgary and area.- 30 -Media Contacts:Mary KapustaDirector, CommunicationsCalgary Public LibraryP: 403.774.7256mary.kapusta@calgarylibrary.caRachael TernerManager of CommunicationsCalgary Public Library FoundationC: 403.680.0626rachael@addin.caJanice FranceyCommunications AssociateCalgary FoundationC: 403.617.1998JFrancey@calgaryfoundation.org
Read more about "Stories"Building Success Through Play Media ReleaseJanuary 18, 2017Calgary, AB — Starting this summer, 16,000 community kids under 17 years of age will benefit from Forest Lawn Library’s Nature Playground— thanks to the Canada 150 Infrastructure Program (CIP150).“Celebrating Canada’s 150th birthday with the creation of a nature playground is an incredible way to ensure everyone understands how foundational play is to all future learning,” says Bill Ptacek, CEO, Calgary Public Library.Calgarians have the opportunity to help us match this generous contribution and raise the full amount needed to build this outdoor early learning centre and empower Forest Lawn families towards a brighter future.”Safe outdoor spaces inspire active, fresh-air-filled play that supports the early learning needs of Calgary’s youngest citizens, helping them develop physical literacy skills and executive brain function, as well as learn about the world around them…putting them on the pathway to future success in school and beyond.The CIP150 contribution of $119,000 was announced January 17 by The Honourable Kent Hehr, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, who spoke about the role infrastructure plays in helping Canadians build better lives by learning how to care, share, and play together.Forest Lawn Library is an oasis in this diverse community where families can face particular challenges including low literacy levels and high unemployment, creating a barrier to learning and play opportunities. Forest Lawn Library is a vibrant community hub with more than 272,000 in-person visits annually, providing hundreds of free literacy and numeracy programs each year.The Calgary Public Library Foundation has a goal of raising $51,000 to complete the funding for this project. View the PLAY! video and for more information, or to make a donation, visit addin.ca.Calgary Public LibraryCalgary Public Library, with 570,000+ members, has been inspiring the life stories of Calgarians for more than 100 years. It is currently the second largest library system in Canada and the sixth largest municipal library system in North America, with Calgarians borrowing more than 16.1 million physical and digital items and with 6.2 million in-person visits last year. Preparations are underway for the awe-inspiring 245,000 sq. ft. New Central Library, to open in late 2018.Add In—the Campaign for Calgary’s LibraryAdd In is a bold and transformational initiative of the Calgary Public Library Foundation to create the best public library in the world for Calgarians. The $350 million city-wide campaign will build capacity for each and every community library and will include projects with a strong impact for Library patrons.
Read more about "Stories"CALGARY, AB – Calgarians will now be able to borrow musical instruments thanks to the Sun Life Financial Musical Instrument Lending Library program – the first of its kind in the region. This innovative program, available at the Calgary Public Library’s Memorial Park location, gives anyone with a valid library card the opportunity to borrow a variety of musical instruments. Earlier this year, Sun Life Financial announced the expansion of its highly successful Sun Life Financial Musical Instrument Lending Library program to more cities across Canada in celebration of Canada’s 150th birthday. Calgary is now the fourth city in the country to be part of this innovative program.“Music can have a profound impact on a person’s life and being able to share and make music is something everyone deserves to experience,” said Paul Joliat, Assistant Vice-President, Philanthropy and Sponsorships, Sun Life Financial. “At Sun Life, we understand the importance of building healthy, sustainable communities and we are thrilled to be able to increase access to music through this program.”Sun Life Financial will be making a $140,000 philanthropic donation to the Calgary Public Library Foundation to fund the program operating costs, and is donating 150 instruments and accessories to the Memorial Park Library, including guitars, ukuleles, violins, drums, xylophones and portable keyboards. Sun Life has also created a series of seven short videos to assist individuals with the use, care and enjoyment of the instruments. Whether you’re a beginner picking up an instrument for the first time or a seasoned musician, the program is designed for anyone looking to explore the world of music.The Sun Life Financial Musical Instrument Lending Library program is a natural extension of Sun Life’s support of music education, one that aligns perfectly with the company’s award-winning Making the Arts More Accessible™ program. Sun Life Financial believes arts and culture should be celebrated within our communities and made available to everyone, regardless of their means.“Music, like reading, is a gateway to the wider world of creativity and ideas,” said Bill Ptacek, CEO, Calgary Public Library. “The Library, through the Sun Life Financial Musical Instrument Lending Library program, is bringing arts and culture to more Calgarians. We are grateful for Sun Life Financial’s continued investment in the Library and to arts and culture in our city. With their investment in innovation, Sun Life Financial is a valued Add In Campaign Founding Partner.”The Library will also be holding a Musical Instrument Donation Drive running from June 1 to July 1. Calgarians may drop off their donations at Memorial Park Library (1221 2 Street SW) and at Long & McQuade (225 58 Ave SE). See the instrument wish list for more information.The Sun Life Financial Musical Instrument Lending Library program was first launched at the Toronto Public Library in April 2016, and was later expanded to the Vancouver and Montréal Public Libraries. The program is already an overwhelming success in the first three cities, and all libraries are currently experiencing wait times to borrow an instrument.About Sun Life Financial in the communityAt Sun Life Financial, we are committed to building sustainable, healthier communities for life and we’re proud to hold the Caring Company designation from Imagine Canada. Community wellness is an important part of our sustainability commitment and we believe that by actively supporting the communities in which we live and work, we can help build a positive environment for our Clients, employees, advisors and shareholders. Our philanthropic support focuses on two key areas: health, with an emphasis on diabetes awareness, prevention, care and research initiatives through our Team Up Against DiabetesTM platform; and arts and culture, through our award-winning Making the Arts More AccessibleTM program. We also partner with sports properties in key markets to further our commitment to healthy and active living. Our employees and advisors take great pride in volunteering over 40,000 hours each year and contribute to making life brighter for individuals and families across Canada. Read more about Sun Life Financial in the community.opens a new windowAbout Calgary Public LibraryCalgary Public Library, with 600,000+ members, has been inspiring the life stories of Calgarians for more than 100 years. It is currently the second largest library system in Canada and the sixth largest municipal library system in North America, with Calgarians borrowing more than 15.8 million physical and digital items and with 6.7 million in-person visits last year. Preparations are underway for the awe-inspiring 240,000 sq. ft. New Central Library, to open in late 2018.About Calgary Public Library FoundationAdd In—the Campaign for Calgary’s Library, is the largest public campaign for a public library in Canadian history. The $350 million campaign will enhance and support a system of community libraries across Calgary and is inspired by the New Central Library, which will open its doors to the world in 2018. To learn more about Add In and the Calgary Public Library Foundation’s vision to create the best public library in the world for Calgarians, visit addin.ca.-30-Media Relations Contacts:Alessandra NigroManager, Corporate CommunicationsSun Life FinancialT. 416-979-4884C. 416-859-6918alessandra.nigro@sunlife.com
Read more about "Stories"CALGARY, AB – Calgarians will now be able to borrow musical instruments thanks to the Sun Life Financial Musical Instrument Lending Library program – the first of its kind in the region. This innovative program, available at the Calgary Public Library’s Memorial Park location, gives anyone with a valid library card the opportunity to borrow a variety of musical instruments. Earlier this year, Sun Life Financial announced the expansion of its highly successful Sun Life Financial Musical Instrument Lending Library program to more cities across Canada in celebration of Canada’s 150th birthday. Calgary is now the fourth city in the country to be part of this innovative program.“Music can have a profound impact on a person’s life and being able to share and make music is something everyone deserves to experience,” said Paul Joliat, Assistant Vice-President, Philanthropy and Sponsorships, Sun Life Financial. “At Sun Life, we understand the importance of building healthy, sustainable communities and we are thrilled to be able to increase access to music through this program.”Sun Life Financial will be making a $140,000 philanthropic donation to the Calgary Public Library Foundation to fund the program operating costs, and is donating 150 instruments and accessories to the Memorial Park Library, including guitars, ukuleles, violins, drums, xylophones and portable keyboards. Sun Life has also created a series of seven short videos to assist individuals with the use, care and enjoyment of the instruments. Whether you’re a beginner picking up an instrument for the first time or a seasoned musician, the program is designed for anyone looking to explore the world of music.The Sun Life Financial Musical Instrument Lending Library program is a natural extension of Sun Life’s support of music education, one that aligns perfectly with the company’s award-winning Making the Arts More Accessible™ program. Sun Life Financial believes arts and culture should be celebrated within our communities and made available to everyone, regardless of their means.“Music, like reading, is a gateway to the wider world of creativity and ideas,” said Bill Ptacek, CEO, Calgary Public Library. “The Library, through the Sun Life Financial Musical Instrument Lending Library program, is bringing arts and culture to more Calgarians. We are grateful for Sun Life Financial’s continued investment in the Library and to arts and culture in our city. With their investment in innovation, Sun Life Financial is a valued Add In Campaign Founding Partner.”The Library will also be holding a Musical Instrument Donation Drive running from June 1 to July 1. Calgarians may drop off their donations at Memorial Park Library (1221 2 Street SW) and at Long & McQuade (225 58 Ave SE). See the instrument wish list for more information.The Sun Life Financial Musical Instrument Lending Library program was first launched at the Toronto Public Library in April 2016, and was later expanded to the Vancouver and Montréal Public Libraries. The program is already an overwhelming success in the first three cities, and all libraries are currently experiencing wait times to borrow an instrument.About Sun Life Financial in the communityAt Sun Life Financial, we are committed to building sustainable, healthier communities for life and we’re proud to hold the Caring Company designation from Imagine Canada. Community wellness is an important part of our sustainability commitment and we believe that by actively supporting the communities in which we live and work, we can help build a positive environment for our Clients, employees, advisors and shareholders. Our philanthropic support focuses on two key areas: health, with an emphasis on diabetes awareness, prevention, care and research initiatives through our Team Up Against DiabetesTM platform; and arts and culture, through our award-winning Making the Arts More AccessibleTM program. We also partner with sports properties in key markets to further our commitment to healthy and active living. Our employees and advisors take great pride in volunteering over 40,000 hours each year and contribute to making life brighter for individuals and families across Canada. Read more about Sun Life Financial in the community.opens a new windowAbout Calgary Public LibraryCalgary Public Library, with 600,000+ members, has been inspiring the life stories of Calgarians for more than 100 years. It is currently the second largest library system in Canada and the sixth largest municipal library system in North America, with Calgarians borrowing more than 15.8 million physical and digital items and with 6.7 million in-person visits last year. Preparations are underway for the awe-inspiring 240,000 sq. ft. New Central Library, to open in late 2018.About Calgary Public Library FoundationAdd In—the Campaign for Calgary’s Library, is the largest public campaign for a public library in Canadian history. The $350 million campaign will enhance and support a system of community libraries across Calgary and is inspired by the New Central Library, which will open its doors to the world in 2018. To learn more about Add In and the Calgary Public Library Foundation’s vision to create the best public library in the world for Calgarians, visit addin.ca.-30-Media Relations Contacts:Alessandra NigroManager, Corporate CommunicationsSun Life FinancialT. 416-979-4884C. 416-859-6918alessandra.nigro@sunlife.com
Read more about "Stories"