Donor support changes lives through Calgary Public Library

Explore how your gift supports the community through the work of the Library.

You may not have seen it happen firsthand, but every time you visited one of the Library’s 22 locations, borrowed something from the Library’s ever-growing collections, or attended a program, you were a part of the impact that donor support for Calgary Public Library makes in our community.

Thank you to our donors for helping open doors, spark curiosity, and create opportunities for Calgarians of all ages in 2025. We can’t wait for what’s next as we continue this journey together. We’re so grateful to have you with us as part of the story.

  • Library Foundation donors turn ideas into impact.
  • 4,000
    books added through The Fifth Book Campaign (and more to come!)
  • 150,000
    books delivered through the My First Bookshelf program
  • 20,000
    participants in Ultimate Summer Challenge 2025
  • 1,400
    Calgarians received career support at the Job Desk

New books checked out more than 7,000 times

Donor support for The Fifth Book Campaign for Library Collections is helping the Library add more books to its shelves, in the face of rising prices and increased demand. Donor funds purchased thousands of new books in the spring, which, by the summer, had already been checked out more than 7,000 times.

2 new children’s learning spaces

The Library’s Early Learning Centres, spaces for experiential play and active learning, gained new ground last year—literally—with the new Outdoor Early Learning Centre at Signal Hill Library and the start of renovations for an Early Learning Centre at Louise Riley Library. When these spaces open, the Library will have 15 Early Learning Centres, all of which are entirely funded by donors, making each space an example of how generosity translates directly into confidence and lifelong learning.

150,000 books delivered

My First Bookshelf helps families build home libraries by delivering free books by mail to children each month up to their fifth birthday. Last year, the program celebrated its fifth anniversary, and in the summer, the program delivered its 150,000th book. Since 2020, donor support has given nearly 7,000 children the opportunity to participate in this program.

20,000 people committed to reading all summer long

Ultimate Summer Challenge is the Library’s largest program, inspiring thousands of people to read all summer long. For children, this program helps them stay on track with reading goals while school is out, helping them re-enter the classroom with confidence. Teens continue to take on the Challenge in a big way with over 8,300 participants.

Attendance up by 25%

Drop-in English Practice launched at the Library early last year. By removing the need to register in advance—a barrier for many—it’s easier than ever for learners to feel confident and take part. Attendance is up by 25 percent compared to other Library ESL programming, showing how small changes can help more newcomers connect, learn, and feel at home.

Calgary Public Library Foundation is CASL-compliant. By donating, you have provided consent to receive updates and information about how your donation is making a difference. At any time, you may unsubscribe or change your communication preferences.

“I’m grateful for all the work you do to help people access what they couldn’t before. You’re making a positive difference in so many people’s lives, and that’s truly amazing. Thank you again for everything you do—you rock!”

—Teresa, Library donor