Donor-Funded Initiatives

Thanks to our donors
This resource is supported by the Government of Alberta.

A series of short-term, paid, community engagement roles that support individuals and collectives living and working in Calgary and surrounding First Nations communities. A variety of residencies are piloted, offered, and filled each year, including:

• Children’s Artist/Illustrator
• Indigenous Artist
• Newcomer Artist
• Author
• Musical Artist
• Historian
• Storyteller

Thanks to our donors
Elder-in-Residence, Indigenous Artist-in-Residence, and Newcomer Artist-in-Residence positions are supported by TD.

The Human Rights and Holocaust Education program seeks to raise awareness and engage Library patrons in critical dialogue about human rights and the Holocaust. Donor funds support physical exhibits and virtual tours that build on programs and events, facilitate community storytelling opportunities and enhance Library collections related to human rights.

“It is so important for our students to hear the perspectives of people who lived through such important history. Very informative and very linked to our Social Studies 20 content.” —Rundle College Senior High social studies teacher, regarding May 2025 Holocaust Education Symposium

Thanks to our donors
This program is supported by the Balaban family, the Krell family, and Viewpoint Foundation.

Job Desk provides access to career planning resources and career coaches who can help with job searching, resume and cover letter development, interview skills, and more.

“A returning patron whom I previously assisted with resume-building has made great progress. Through networking, he gained valuable insights into crafting a strong cover letter — bringing him one step closer to a potential interview. The most inspiring part? He arrived in Canada just one week ago.” —Job Desk Career Coach

Thanks to our donors
The Province of Alberta is working in partnership with the Government of Canada to provide employment support programs and services.

My First Bookshelf delivers a free book in the mail every month to children up to their fifth birthday, enhancing access to reading material and building a lifelong love of reading.

“I must say as a retired educator that this is one terrific and worthwhile program.” —parent of My First Bookshelf participant

Thanks to our donors
Chapter Sponsors: Canada Life; Lori Egger and Steve Laut; Leah and Ernie Hagel; Barbara Killick; Legacy Energy; Lorraine and Peter Moore; Sticks & Strings Foundation.
Supporters and Partners: Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library; The Dollywood Foundation of Canada.

Newcomers Desk provides support from newcomer-serving agencies and organizations in the community, including assessment of needs, referrals, language training, child support, education and skills training, employment, and community connections.

“A young man visited the Newcomers Desk to ask if he needed to file taxes for 2024. After reviewing his status and arrival date in Canada, I advised him that he was required to file his taxes. He seemed hesitant to discuss the cost, but I reassured him that he could access free tax clinics, and I also referred him to CCIS employment services for additional support. His visible relief and smile reaffirmed the importance of the assistance we provide.” —Newcomers Desk counsellor

Thanks to our donors
This program is supported by RBC Foundation.

Library locations across the city often host free performances and workshops across various art forms, including music, dance, drama, and movement, enhancing access to life-enriching arts and culture experiences and supporting emergent artists in reaching new audiences.

We acknowledge the support of the Province of Alberta through Alberta Foundation for the Arts.

Connects first responders and literacy to provide unique opportunities for students in Calgary to engage in literacy skill-building while cultivating relationships with local police, fire, and EMS.
Supported by James and Patricia Burns and the BURNSWEST Corporation.

Brings artists to Library locations across the city for free performances and workshops across various art forms, including music, dance, drama, and movement, enhancing access to life-enriching arts and culture experiences and supporting emergent artists in reaching new audiences.
Supported by Mary Rozsa de Coquet and the Rozsa Foundation.

Seniors Drop-in Social Club aims to create a dedicated space for seniors to connect, share, and learn, addressing social isolation and fostering community engagement for adults in Calgary aged 55 and older. The program is led by volunteers with support from Library staff, and is scheduled during the daytime at Library locations throughout the city.

Supported by Canadian Natural.

A mobile library that brings storytime, books, activities, and Library resources to day homes in neighbourhoods throughout Calgary, with emphasis placed on areas where access is constrained by financial or other barriers.
The Story Truck is supported by Canadian Natural and Calgary Public Library Foundation donors.

Provides free access to mental health and recovery support, health information, and service referrals on a drop-in basis at select Library locations throughout the city.
The Wellness Desk is supported generously by BMO Financial Group, The City of Calgary, and Calgary Public Library Foundation donors.