Why We Exist

Airdrie Public Library nurtures the development of individuals, families, friendships, and community spirit. We strive to be the “heart” of the community.

“As a newcomer to Airdrie, I am very impressed by the kindness, friendliness, knowledge and whole area of positive thinking displayed by the librarians and facilitators of programs within this library.  I look forward every week to spending time and learning about the many opportunities to connect and thrive.” – Anonymous Patron

 

Airdrie Public Library:

• supports literacy and lifelong learning;
• connects the community and serves as an arts and cultural hub;
• champions technology and supports digital literacy;
• offers leisure and recreation opportunities; and
• promotes economic well-being.

What We Do

Having begun as Airdrie Municipal Library in December 1971, in a 13-by-15-foot room open seven hours a week, Airdrie Public Library was officially founded in 1988. From its humble beginnings, the library has evolved to become a true community resource centre. The library moved to a new 10,000-square foot facility in December 2005 (opening in January 2006) and joined Marigold Library System in January 2007. The growth of the library has been remarkable ever since.

From 2005 to 2018:

• The number of annual cardholders has increased from 5,668 to 23, 535 (315%)
• Program participation has skyrocketed from 3,194 to 26, 878 (742%)
• Circulation has jumped from 90,984 to 588,716 (547%)
• Library visits have increased from 40,800 to 205,867 (405%)

Airdrians love their library! We were able to offer over 1,600 FREE programs for library patrons in 2018.  We believe that all citizens should have access to lifelong learning and exposure to arts and culture.

In 2019, we were awarded the Marigold Innovation Award for our Mighty Machines program.  This event saw over 700+ attendees and engaged families in fun, educational discovery.

How We Do It

Airdrie Public Library had 23,535 members and 205,867 visitors in 2018. That is almost 600 individuals coming to our library daily! APL serves Airdrie and surrounding communities in Rocky View County.  Our library cards are FREE to all Airdrians and those in Rocky View County.

We have been able to offer many programs for all ages, such as:

• Preschool literacy programs (including Rhymes and Songs, Sensory Story Time, and A League of Super Dads for male caregivers and their charges.)
• Family events (including Family Literacy Day, Star Wars Reads Day, and Mighty Machines.)
• Tween and teen programs (including maker, gaming, and after school programs.)
• Adult and senior programs (including art instruction, financial literacy, and author readings.)
• Programs for children and adults with disabilities
• and so much more!

We serve our community in so many ways. APL is an accessible, inclusive and low-cost option for recreation and lifelong learning.  It is a gathering place, a venue to meet friends, and a welcoming environment for newcomers to learn about the community.  It is the cultural hub of our community with a large focus not only on literacy but, on art and cultural opportunities, community building and special events.

What You Can Do

In order to facilitate the following valuable events free of charge to the community, we rely on the generous support of donors like you. Your support will not only assist with the programming costs but will also help APL grow with our community!  The exponential growth that the library is facing has us looking forward to a new facility in the coming years.

Our 2019 fundraising target is $100,520

• Children’s and Youth Programs $41,500
• Adult Programs $4,500
• Grow-a-reader Campaign $5,500
• Adpot-a-book Campaign $5,000
• Collections $5,000
• Capital Items $5,000
• Fundraising Events $9,320
• Library Services $24,700

You can help partner with the library by:

• Making a donation
• Sponsoring a program
• Investing in our Grow-a-reader Campaign
• Supporting our Adopt-a-book Campaign
• Volunteering
• Leave a legacy gift

For more information please email or phone at 403-948-0600 ext. 8386.