In 2022, the Library celebrated its 110th anniversary and unveiled a new four-year strategic plan with a focus on creating purpose together, championing a sense of belonging, and energizing lifelong learning. The anniversary and strategic plan marked a year of celebration and renewal for the Library as it looked back on its history and forward to the future with a renewed sense of purpose.
The following successes were made possible thanks to the generous support of our donors.
It is hard to believe that it has been four years since we celebrated the opening of Central Library. We are so proud to have been on this journey with you, and we are even more excited for what’s yet to come with Calgary Public Library’s new four-year Strategic Plan. This new roadmap promises not only an ongoing dedication to empowering community and lifelong learning, but also the opening of four new Library locations. It is an exciting time to believe in the Library!
In 2022, donor support enabled the Library to dream, to transform and to lead in access, connection and literacy. Thanks to our donors, we can confidently say that we are the best public library in the world…and we will not stop there. Donor support is actively shaping the potential of libraries and what they can be. Innovation doesn’t just happen at the Library, it starts here!
Our Library is a leader. From our design-first approach to new programming, to recognizing our unique ability to address Period Poverty, to engaging citizens in timely conversations about human rights, Calgary Public Library is leading the way worldwide. Donor support allows the Library to be creative and daring, experimenting with new ideas and creating vibrant spaces that bring people together and meet changing community needs. As we look four-ward, and through the support of our donors, we are inventing the future of libraries.
Thank you for being on this journey with us.
Tracy Johnson
Chief Executive Officer
Calgary Public Library Foundation
The past year has marked a turning point in our world, community, and for the Calgary Public Library Foundation. The Library has begun hosting programming in-person, and libraries across the city are once again becoming bustling community hubs. After two years of working and living digitally, we are now meeting and celebrating in person once more, and we have moved from responding to proactively planning for what’s next.
Our donors have continued to step up in support of the Library, with more than 12,000 gifts made and 500 individuals who demonstrate their commitment each month. You have shown up at our events, purchased tickets for our 50/50 raffle, and ordered local gifts throughout the year from Library Store. Your generosity has enabled the Library to expand its programming, enhance its collections and serve even more Calgarians.
As we look to the future, we are energized by the Library’s new four-year Strategic Plan and how it aligns with the Library Foundation’s fundraising priorities. I would like to recognize the Board of Directors and the staff of the Library Foundation for their continued commitment, and want to acknowledge your ongoing support. Thank you for helping to put our Library and city on the world stage, connecting Calgarians to each other, to information, and to the international community. We are excited to continue our journey of transforming lives here in Calgary and beyond.
Rob Van Weilengen,
Chair, Calgary Public Library Foundation Board of Directors
In 2022, our donors helped direct $2,611,582 to the Library.
Providing Accessible Mental Health Support in our Community
In 2022, generous donors supported more than 1,872 hours of the Wellness Desk, which provides access to mental health and wellness services with mental health professionals. The service is now offered at three locations five days a week; Central Library Tuesday through Friday, Crowfoot Library on Mondays, and Shawnessy Library on Wednesdays.
From January through November, more than 399 individuals were supported through the Wellness Desk. 64% of clients reported accessing the Wellness Desk for the first time, and 30% accessed mental health services for the first time ever. The Wellness Desk extends the Library’s place as an integral connector between individuals and the resources they need to improve and enhance their lives.
In partnership with: Wood’s Homes Supported by: the Boone-Poole Family Foundation, City of Calgary, Totem Charitable Foundation and donors of the Library Foundation.
Thank you
Join us as we invent the future of libraries together.
