"Libraries have been a centre for resiliency for Calgarians. We are an essential service and fill a critical need for our community.”
Sarah Meilleur
CEO, Calgary Public Library
With more than 713,000 members across 21 locations, the Calgary Public Library has unparalleled reach across our city. In a typical year, seven million people visit, including jobseekers, isolated seniors, early learners, caregivers, school-aged children, and newcomers. Membership is free for all Calgarians, and the Library serves people of all ages and backgrounds. An investment in the Library is an investment in the entire community.
Viewpoint Foundation is aligned with the Calgary Public Library’s goals; we have supported the Library since 2016. Rob Van Wielingen, President & CEO of Viewpoint Investment Partners, donates his time as Board Chair of the Library Foundation’s Board of Directors.
Continue reading for three ways that Library donors are supporting the Calgary community.
DIGITAL ACCESS:
Technology is increasingly critical, yet for many vulnerable individuals, the Library provides their only access. COVID-19 and the resulting Library closures have exposed the critical digital divide in the Calgary community.
During its first closure in March 2020, the Library worked with community partners to pilot the loan of Chromebooks to individuals with technology barriers, and in January 2021, began loaning computers to Library members. The demand continues to outpace supply for this service, and the Library is planning to expand the program to offer loans of WIFI hotspots, enabling cardholders to work, study or connect with loved ones online and directly connect to existing free digital literacy support. The Library Foundation envisions positioning the Library as a leader in digital access and outreach, which will support its vision to create the best public library in the world.
WELLNESS DESK:
With its broad reach, accessibility, and diverse users, the Library is uniquely positioned to support the mental health crisis within the Calgary community.
In October 2020, the Library launched a pilot program that brings trained social workers into the Central Library. The Wellness Desk, held in partnership with Wood’s Homes, minimizes barriers to mental health support, allows Calgarians to discover and better navigate services available, and empowers caregivers and those wanting to learn how to best direct loved ones to the right services. In October 2021, the Library expanded the Wellness Desk to Crowfoot Library to address the high demand for counselling services in the northwest quadrant of the city. The Library Foundation envisions a day where all 21 locations have social workers available to support people where they live, work, and attend school.
MY FIRST BOOKSHELF:
One in four children start school behind their peers in reading and language skills. The Library plays a critical role in school readiness, yet children are unable to control their barriers; many don’t have access to the Library.
My First Bookshelf is a donor-funded program that supports children with free, age-appropriate, personalized books delivered by mail once a month from birth to age five. Communities selected for the pilot either met conditions identified as risk factors for poor developmental outcomes and/or are further from existing library locations. As of October 2021, 2,127 children have participated in My First Bookshelf and are either currently enrolled or have graduated from the program on their fifth birthday. The Library Foundation envisions a day where all children have access to books and are set up for success in school and life.
To sign up for your free Library membership, register for programs or access digital resources, visit calgarylibrary.ca.
To make a donation that will support Calgary’s entire community, visit libraryfoundation.ca.