I AM THE !

Giving Credit Where Credit is Due

It started with a cryptic invitation featuring an exclamation mark. Weeks later, and for the first time in recent memory, all Calgary Public Library staff met—in three identical sessions in the John Dutton Theatre—not quite knowing why.

Trepidation quickly turned to enthusiasm as staff received the credit for the current success of the Library and heard how invaluable they are to the future of the Library in the community.

What the Library is Becoming

The Library is change; Library staff are change agents, going beyond accomplishments to reinvent the Library in ever more creative, innovative, and daring ways to meet the changing needs and expectations of Calgarians.

More, better, and timely communication, as well as enhanced training will provide staff with the support needed to continue experimenting, pushing boundaries, and reimaging learning to go beyond, knowing that the actions of Library staff truly make a difference.

Calgary Public Library: reDEFINED

1. A passion shared by all, for supporting and enriching our ever-evolving communities

2. A living and responsive organization always transforming itself in the pursuit of excellence

3. An abundance of free, relevant, unexpected, and impactful programs and services both within and beyond our walls

4. A welcoming space, where community gathers

5. Calgarians’ pathway to the joy, wonder, and power of knowledge

6. Surprising moments and delightful experiences that help people realize their true potential

Going Beyond

Exciting new initiatives coming to the Library in 2017

Getting Better

Materials Handling Review to meet growing demands on the system, making the Library easier and more efficient for members

Getting Bigger

From 18 to 21 community libraries; 4 new libraries in 2 years

• Rocky Ridge Recreation Centre Library location (3,000 sq. ft.) open to public February 2018

• Sage Hill Library location (19,500 sq. ft.) new home to Engine 23 & Early Learning Centre; starter library in retail space Spring 2017

• Seton Rec Centre Library location (25,000 sq. ft.) break-out rooms overlooking aquatic centre, program rooms & early learning spaces;

• New Central Library (245,000 sq. ft.) interior work starts June 2017; opening late 2018

Membership Retention & Growth: From 570,000 to 800,000 Members by Q4 2018

• Continued service excellence and innovative programming & resources, along with a Member Communication Program (including a new Welcome to the Library package)

Early Learning Focus in Every Community Library

• Expanded Early Learning Centre at Shawnessy Library with more to come

• Library’s first outdoor play space at Forest Lawn Library

• participation in International Play Association Conference

Going Public: Launch of Add In—The Campaign for Calgary’s Library

• 12,000 donors gave $26 Million (in addition to $275 Million from City & CMLC)

• Public Campaign Launch in 2017; Overall Goal of Campaign: $350 Million

Getting Connected

• 3 Book Trucks, 50 trained drivers, new Story Truck outreach to Calgary’s dayhomes

• Working closely with educators to pilot Math Quest & Info Investigators; trialling Campus Calgary/Open Minds at Central Library; Summer Learning focus on Canada’s 150th

Getting Out There

• Piloting programs & services for the system inspired by New Central Library, including innovative technologies; attention paid to local history; focus on Indigenous perspectives re: spaces, programs, services, policies & outreach to help Calgarians take the next steps toward reconciliation

Getting You

• Morel learning opportunities, including enhanced early literacy training, free access to Lynda.com; realigned Employee Recognition Program; year-end Employee Survey

Check out the January 20 Issue of The Bulletin

to explore best-public-library-for-the-world traits in the Going Beyond insert!

Celebrate the best public library for the world as, together, we Learn. Change. Grow. Use your staff discount code and get this t-shirt at cost with no markup. This item is currently set as a presale and will only be ordered if we reach our goal. Click here to order this special shirt!