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The Board is appointed by the City and is governed by the Act, the Regulation, the City Bylaw, and other relevant legislation. The Board has the authority for full management and control of the Library and assumes with that authority the duty to develop policies related to the framework, governance, and operation of the Library.
The Board employs the Chief Executive Officer, who in turn implements the policies and manages the daily operations of the Library. The Chief Executive Officer is accountable to the Board. The staff who implement Library operations are accountable to the Chief Executive Officer.
Board Policies
Board Policies clearly define the scope and limits within which the Library operates. Board Policies are used to provide effective parameters and direction for decisions and actions undertaken by the Board, management, and staff.
Statutory Policies
(a) The Board shall establish, as Board Policies, those policies required by the Act and the Regulations. The Board shall only revise, repeal, and replace such Board Policies as is permitted by the Act and the Regulations.
(b) The Board shall file a report with the Minister that contains the Board Policies established pursuant to this section, and when the Board revises any Board Policy established pursuant to this section, the Board shall immediately file with the Minister a report of that revision.
Other Board Policies
The Board may establish such other Board Policies as it considers appropriate from time to time, and may revise, repeal, and replace those Board Policies as it considers appropriate from time to time.
Defining and Interpreting Board Policies
In these policies, the following words have these meanings:
The Board authorizes and may direct the Chief Executive Officer to establish, revise, repeal, and replace such Administrative Policies as the Chief Executive Officer considers appropriate from time to time. Where a specific Administrative Policy is created at the discretion of the Board, the Chief Executive Officer shall inform the Board promptly following the establishment, revision, repeal, or replacement of each such policy.
The Board acknowledges that all Board Members acting on behalf of the Library share certain ethical and legal responsibilities, including:
Approval: Evan Legate, 2024. Statutory: No.
Board Members must be open, honest, and transparent in the work we do. A conflict of interest occurs, or may occur, in a situation where a Board Member has private interests and relationships that they believe could or identifycould be seen to impact the decisions or actions they take on behalf of the Library. The interests of the Calgary Public Library must be placed before those interests.
Board Members must abide by the law and policies of the Library. Board Members shall regulate activities so as to remain free of interests or relationships which are, or have the appearance of being, harmful or detrimental to the Calgary Public Library, or are in conflict with the Library’s best interests.
Where there might be a conflict between Board Member’s personal interests and those of the Library, it is the responsibility of each Board Member to declare in writing to the Board Chair at the first opportunity those interestsand relationships that could or could be seen to impact the decisions or actions they take on behalf of the Board. If such Board Member is the Board Chair, the disclosure should be made to the Board Vice-Chair or otherapplicable Board Committee Chair who will perform all of the duties normally performed by the Board Chair as outlined above.
Board Members who declare a conflict of interest must recuse themselves from voting on motions involved in the conflict.
Board Members will not accept or provide gifts, benefits and favours in exchange for, or appear to be in exchange for, preferential treatment or influence at the Calgary Public Library.
Approval: Evan Legate, 2025. Statutory: No.
The Board recognizes the importance of having informed Board Members. To ensure this, the Board must provide a comprehensive orientation program for all new Board Members.
The Board encourages skill development of its Board Members and provides, within available resources, institutional memberships in key library organizations and financial support for attendance at library conferences and relevant workshops, including reimbursement of registration fees and of travel and accommodations expenses. Entitlement for financial support for these activities requires the approval of the Board Chair or Vice-Chair.
Approval: Evan Legate, 2024. Statutory: Yes.
The Library will maintain appropriate insurance for its Board Members.
Approval: Evan Legate, 2024. Statutory: No.
The Board is a volunteer board and does not offer compensation for service. However, in order to ensure that service on the Board is available and accessible to all members of the community, the Library will pay for reasonable expenses incurred when Board Members attend Board and Board Committee meetings, represent the Library at community functions, and attend learning and development activities, when those functions and activities have been authorized by the Board Chair or Vice-Chair.
Eligible expenses include, but are not limited to:
Receipts must accompany claims for reimbursement.
Approval: Evan Legate, 2024. Statutory: Yes.
Calgary Public Library values and prioritizes equity, diversity, inclusion, accessibility, and belonging for all. The Library is committed to ensuring that people feel a sense of belonging in library spaces and have fair and equitable access to library services regardless of ancestry, place of origin, race, colour, education, income or source of income, religious beliefs, family status, marital status, age, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, or physical or mental disabilities.
Calgary Public Library endorses the Canadian Federation of Library Associations’ Position Statement on Diversity and Inclusion and is a signatory on both the Urban Libraries Council Statement on Race and Social Equity and the Canadian Urban Libraries Council Statement on Race and Social Equity.
The Board recognizes that meaningful progress in this area requires a personal and collective commitment. Achieving transformational internal and external changes needs collaborative action to support and celebrate the diversity of experience, knowledge, and skills at the Library.
The Board endorses the Calgary Public Library’s Equity, Diversity, and Belonging Commitment Statement.
Definitions:
Accessibility – the degree to which a space or service is available.
Diversity – all the ways in which people differ and how that is represented in spaces and services.
Inclusion – the act of transforming systems and structures to ensure that all individuals are welcomed, supported, respected, and valued, and that barriers to contribution within spaces and services are removed.
Equity – fair treatment, access, and opportunities ensure that everyone is provided with an opportunity to succeed and grow within spaces and services.
Belonging – the feeling of being accepted within spaces and services; to feel valued, to be seen and heard and connected the people and the environment around them.
Approval: Evan Legate, 2025. Statutory: No.
What is Intellectual Freedom
The origins of intellectual freedom are found in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights adopted by the United Nations in 1948 and defined as follows:
Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive, and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers.
Intellectual freedom is recognized as a fundamental freedom in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and forms the basis of a democratic system. It advances knowledge, allows individuals to learn and grow, and supports open and informed discourse and decision making.
The Role of The Library in Intellectual Freedom
Libraries have a core mandate and professional obligation to uphold the principles of intellectual freedom and freedom of expression. In Canada, libraries have a legal responsibility to uphold and protect the principles of intellectual freedom as outlined in Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, as a legislated, publicly funded, government organization. In Alberta, this legislation is the Libraries Act and Regulations.
As democratic public organizations that are widely accessible and committed to equity, libraries play a vital role in making intellectual freedom a reality. This core value and fundamental principle is defended, promoted, and supported by national and international library associations including the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), the American Library Association, and the Canadian Federation of Library Associations (CFLA). Specifically, CFLA affirms that “all persons in Canada have a fundamental right, subject only to the Constitution and the law, to have access to the full range of knowledge, imagination, ideas, and opinion, and to express their thought publicly”. The Calgary Public Library endorses both the IFLA Statement on Intellectual Freedom and the CFLA Statement on Libraries and Intellectual Freedom.
At Calgary Public Library, intellectual freedom means providing the tools and spaces to support the free exchange of information and ideas and respecting each individuals’ right to privacy and choice. The Library’s commitment to intellectual freedom aligns with the Library’s vision, mission, and values, and supports the Board Policy on Equity and Belonging.
Through its professional and legal obligation to intellectual freedom, the Calgary Public Library:
Related Calgary Public Library Policies
More Information on Intellectual Freedom
United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights
Canadian Federation of Library Associations Statement on Intellectual Freedom and Libraries
Canadian Centre for Free Expression
Freedom to Read (Canada)
American Library Association Intellectual Freedom Resources
International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions Statement on Libraries and Intellectual Freedom
Approval: Evan Legate, 2024. Statutory: No.
Everyone has a right to be present at Calgary Public Library (Library) Board public meetings whether in person at in person meetings, or virtually for virtual gatherings.
Pursuant to the Protection of Privacy Act (POPA) and Regulations, the Library Board may hold a portion of a meeting in the absence of the public (in-camera) only if the subject matter being considered is:
i. the security of the property of the Library;
ii. personal information of an individual including (1) an employee of the Library, (2) a Board Member, or (3) potential individuals currently under consideration for those posts;
iii. proposed or pending acquisition of property by or for the Library;
iv. labour relations or employee negotiations;
v. a law enforcement matter, litigation, or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals affecting the Library; or
vi. the consideration of a request for access to information under ATIA .
Public Attendance
Members of the public wishing to attend a Library Board Meeting are asked to contact board@calgarylibrary.ca by 5:00 p.m.one business day prior to the scheduled meeting.
Individuals are asked to sign in with Library staff before proceeding into the meeting. Drop-in attendance will be permitted, but attendees must sign in at the door before proceeding into the meeting. In situations where the Board Meeting is held virtually, individuals registered will receive a link prior to the meeting.
Board Meetings are not public hearings and there will not be an opportunity for members of the public to comment on proceedings or speak to attendees during the meeting unless a request to present has been approved in advance.
The Board Chair will have the discretion to change the meeting location if attendance exceeds the scheduled room’s seating capacity
Public Presentations at In-Person Meetings
If a member of the public wishes to make a presentation to the Library Board pertaining to matters within the Board’s governance jurisdiction, they are required to give written notice to board@calgarylibrary.ca 5 business days in advance of the meeting they wish to attend.
A request to present must:
The Chair may agree to schedule the presentation on the agenda of the next Board meeting or another regular meeting of the Board. The Chair may refer matters of Library administration or operations to the Chief Executive Officer.
The Chair may waive the above requirements if, in the Chair’s opinion, there were extenuating circumstances or the presentation would no longer be relevant if made at a future meeting of the Board.
If a member of the public is unable to attend a meeting, they may submit a written submission to board@calgarylibrary.ca. The approval process for written submissions to be presented at the Board Meeting will follow the procedures and deadlines for presentations.
Presentations by individuals or groups will be limited to 5 minutes per issue or matter. This time may be reduced or extended at the discretion of the Board Chair.
Presentations from groups or organizations shall have no more than three speakers and the number of speakers does not affect the total time limit for presentation. The maximum amount of time for public presentations will be 20 minutes per Board meeting.
Board members will not respond to public presentations at the time they are made. As required, the Library Board will respond to the presentation in writing within two weeks of the presentation.
Please note that any written or verbal submissions (including individual name but excluding personal contact information) will form part of the public record and will be made available to the public.
Conduct of Presenters and Public Attendees
Calgary Public Library values and prioritizes equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility for all. The Library is committed to ensuring that people feel a sense of belonging in library spaces and have fair and equitable access to library services regardless of ancestry, place of origin, race, education, income or source of income, religious beliefs, family status, marital status, gender, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or physical or mental disabilities.
Each member of the public shall be expected to conduct themselves according to all applicable Board Policies and the Library’s regarding their attendance and conduct at Board Meetings.
Any individual making a presentation to the Library Board shall:
Failure to abide by these rules is grounds for the Chair to conclude or curtail a presentation. If the Chair rules that the presentation is concluded, the person or persons appearing before the Library Board shall immediatelywithdraw.
Policy Administration
The Library Board authorizes the Chief Executive Officer to establish procedures to administer this policy.
Approval: Gillian Hynes, 2026. Statutory: No.
The Board establishes philanthropic priorities for the Calgary Public Library Foundation (Foundation). The Foundation receives monetary and in-kind donations on behalf of the Library. Donations are accepted and tax receipts are issued by the Foundation in accordance with the policies and guidance of the Canada Revenue Agency.
Approval: Evan Legate, 2024. Statutory: No.
Calgary Public Library does not accept donations of books and other materials. The Library may accept donations of content by authors and creators that offer a perspective on Calgary and region for the Calgary’s Story local history collection. Donations would be reviewed and may be added to the Library’s collections in accordance with the Collections policy, the Calgary’s Story Collection Administrative Policy, and Calgary’s Story Collection Guidelines. Content that is donated is subject to the same criteria for withdrawal that are applied to purchased materials.
Approval: Evan Legate, 2024. Statutory: No.
Recognizing that the long-term resourcing of the Library through sponsorships is vital to the services it provides to Calgarians, the Board supports the ongoing practice of providing naming rights to third-party sponsors, where such relationships are mutually beneficial and are consistent with this policy.
Sponsorships are agreements to provide goods, services, or financial contribution in return for the recognition potential associated with the inclusion and public display of the sponsor’s name as the name of parts of a Library facility or of other tangible assets. The Calgary Public Library Foundation will pursue such arrangements on behalf of the Library.
In judging the suitability of naming rights for sponsors, the following will be considered:
The Library will not enter into a naming rights agreement with a sponsor for the entirety of a Library facility.
Naming rights agreements will be in place for a specified number of years.
Naming rights for sponsorships of less than $1 million require the approval of the Library’s Chief Executive Officer. Naming rights for sponsorships of $1 million or more require the approval of the Board.
The Board recognizes that contributions from sponsors are often made in several installments, a situation of benefit to the Library, the Foundation, and the sponsor. Naming rights will not commence until the first installment is received.
In order to protect the integrity of the Board and the Library’s brand, limit confusion for users, and avoid the perception of advertising, the sponsor’s name only, and not its logo, will be used on any permanent signage identifyingthe sponsor.
The Board reserves the right to revoke a naming decision if it constitutes a significant and continuing impairment to the Library’s reputation or if the agreed-upon contributions are significantly reduced.
The Library will not relinquish to a sponsor any aspect of the Library’s right to manage and control any of its assets, facilities, programs, services, staff, or volunteers.
Any naming rights agreement will include clauses to reflect the relevant terms in this policy.
Approval: Evan Legate, 2024. Statutory: No.
Recognizing that the long-term resourcing of the Library through philanthropy is vital to the services it provides to Calgarians, the Board supports the practice of recognizing philanthropic gifts through the naming of the entirety of a Library facility, parts of a Library facility, or other tangible assets, where such relationships are mutually beneficial and are consistent with this policy.
Philanthropic gifts are transfers of property (including money) from donors for the public good without valuable consideration. The Calgary Public Library Foundation will pursue such arrangements on behalf of the Library.
In judging the suitability of recognition through the naming of a philanthropic gift, the following will be considered:
The naming of the entirety of a Library facility, parts of a Library facility, or other tangible assets will be in place for a specified number of years.
The naming of the entirety of a Library facility requires Board approval.
When associated with a gift of less than $1 million, the naming of parts of a Library facility or other tangible assets requires the approval of the Library’s Chief Executive Officer. When associated with a gift of $1 million or more, the naming of parts of a Library facility or other tangible assets requires the approval of the Board.
The Board recognizes that philanthropic gifts are often made in several installments, a situation of benefit to the Library, the Foundation, and the donor. Recognition through naming will not commence until a significant installment of the gift associated with the naming has been received.
The Board recognizes that philanthropic gifts are often made as bequests. Recognition through naming will not commence until the bequest is realized, except in extraordinary circumstances and with Board approval.
The Board recognizes that philanthropic gifts can be made in the form of an endowment. Recognition of the endowment will be considered at a level suitable for the annual disbursement of the endowment.
The Board reserves the right to revoke a naming decision if it constitutes a significant and continuing impairment to the Library’s reputation or if the agreed-upon philanthropic contributions are significantly reduced.
When the Board has approved or revoked the naming of the entirety of a Library facility, it will provide relevant information to The City of Calgary.
The Library will not relinquish to a donor or person honoured through naming any aspect of the Library’s right to manage and control any of its assets, facilities, programs, services, staff, or volunteers.
Any naming rights agreement will include clauses to reflect the relevant terms in this policy.
Approval: Evan Legate, 2024. Statutory: No.
In order to inspire present and future generations by the achievements of individuals who have made exemplary and longstanding contributions to the Library, the Board supports, in special circumstances, the practice of honorific naming of the entirety of a Library facility, parts of a Library facility, or other tangible assets.
Normally, honorific namings will be considered only for individuals who are no longer active in their field of expertise or deceased. Where appropriate, a written consent shall be obtained from each individual or estate associated with an honorific naming.
In judging the suitability of an honorific naming, the following will be considered:
Honorific naming of the entirety of a Library facility, parts of a Library facility, or other tangible assets will be in place for a specified number of years. Honorific namings can be renewed at the discretion of the Board.
Honorific naming requires Board approval.
The Board reserves the right to revoke a naming decision if it constitutes a significant and continuing impairment to the Library’s reputation.
When the Board has approved or revoked the naming of the entirety of a Library facility, it will provide relevant information to The City of Calgary.
The Library will not relinquish to a person honoured through naming any aspect of the Library’s right to manage and control any of its assets, facilities, programs, services, staff, or volunteers.
Approval: Evan Legate, 2024. Statutory: No.
The Board delegates to the Chief Executive Officer signing authority and responsibility for matters necessary for the management of day-to-day operations according to a Signing Authority Matrix contained in Administrative Policies.
Approval: Evan Legate, 2024. Statutory: Yes.
All Library financial accounts and processes will be audited annually. Pursuant to the City Bylaw, the Board will appoint the same external, independent auditor that is approved by City Council for the City audit to facilitate the consolidation of the financial statements of the City and the Library.
Following the conclusion of the annual audit, the results and the recommendations of the audit will be presented by the Audit and Finance Committee to the Board for approval. Following approval by the Board, the audited financial statements will be submitted to City Council, the Government of Alberta, and all other required authorities.
Approval: Evan Legate, 2024. Statutory: Yes.
The Board will ensure the Library maintains a prudent level of debt in order to maintain the financial stability and sustainability of the Library. The Board authorizes the Chief Executive Officer to incur a demand operating line to a maximum amount of 150% of the most recent month of salary and benefit expenses. The demand operating line will be utilized only to fund working capital. The Board shall approve the incurrence of any other debt by the Library.
Approval: Evan Legate, 2024. Statutory: Yes.
Funds in excess of immediate need are to be invested with skill, prudence, and diligence, with the primary objective of safeguarding the principal of the funds while meeting the Library's liquidity needs to fund its ongoing operations.
Permitted investment vehicles include the following:
Approval: Evan Legate, 2024. Statutory: Yes.
The Board shall make every prudent and reasonable effort to safeguard the Library’s reputation, assets, operations, staff, volunteers, and patrons against risk. To the best of its ability, the Board will ensure risks are identified and managed to a level which permits the achievement of the Library’s strategy and meets the Board’s tolerance for risk.
Approval: Evan Legate, 2024. Statutory: No.
The Board shall ensure the security of the Library’s assets and shall maintain public liability coverage through a comprehensive insurance program.
Insurance coverage shall remain in place at all times and be reviewed on an annual basis to ensure that needs are appropriately met and to secure the best value for money.
Approval: Evan Legate, 2024. Statutory: No.
The Board delegates to the CEO the authority to create and maintain financial reserves deemed necessary to protect the operations and assets of the Calgary Public Library. The terms and conditions of any such reserves will be contained in Administrative Polices, which along with contributions and withdrawals, will be reviewed by the Audit and Finance Committee annually.
Approval: Evan Legate, 2024. Statutory: No.
The Board recognizes that building and maintaining its human resources is critical to fulfilling its vision, mission, and value statements. All human resources policies are in accordance with the Act, the Regulations, requiredrelevant legislation, and other statutory requirements.
The Board delegates its authority to the Chief Executive Officer for the management of the Library’s human resources function.
Approval: Evan Legate, 2024. Statutory: Yes.
Conditions of employment for staff whose positions fall within the scope of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), including working hours, are detailed in the signed Collective Agreement between the Board and CUPE Local 1169. The Board must ratify any amendments to the collective agreement.
The Board delegates its authority to the Chief Executive Office for the establishment and administration of conditions of employment for staff members covered by The Management and Administrative Support Staff Association (MASSA) and staff members in exempt management positions.
Conditions of employment for the Chief Executive Officer are established separately and administered by the Board.
Approval: Evan Legate, 2024. Statutory: Yes.
The Board will ensure job descriptions exist for all positions at the Library. Job descriptions will include qualifications required.
Job descriptions shall be revised and updated as required to ensure they reflect the work carried out, or when new positions are created.
Job descriptions shall be accessible to all staff.
Approval: Evan Legate, 2024. Statutory: Yes.
The Board believes that effective performance management and recognition programs are vital to creating a culture that supports the delivery of excellent library service to Calgarians.
The Library’s performance recognition and enhancement program is designed to ensure regular, timely, and focused communication between supervisors and their staff, and shall occur in accordance with the objectives and procedures outlined in relevant Administrative Policies.
The Board maintains a separate performance appraisal program for the Chief Executive Officer and is responsible for conducting the Chief Executive Officer’s annual performance appraisal.
Approval: Evan Legate, 2024. Statutory: Yes.
The Board recognizes the importance of knowledgeable and skilled staff. Within the limits of budget and in accordance with its strategic plan and administrative policies, the Library provides consistent formal and informal staff orientation and training, and regular access to work-related learning and development activities.
Financial assistance for these activities is provided within budgetary limits as outlined in the relevant Administrative Policies.
Approval: Evan Legate, 2024. Statutory: Yes.
All unionized Library staff have access to a grievance procedure as outlined in the signed Collective Agreement between the Board and the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 1169.
In the case of Management and Administrative Support Staff Association (MASSA) staff and Exempt Managers, grievances are referred, in writing, to the Chief Executive Officer for investigation and resolution.
Approval: Evan Legate, 2024. Statutory: Yes.
The Board acknowledges that volunteer involvement adds to the capacity of the Library and provides volunteers with opportunities for personal growth and contribution to the community. Volunteers play a vital role in enhancing connections between the Library and the community while providing Library staff the freedom to carry out the activities for which they are uniquely qualified, trained, and suited.
Volunteers are required to participate in orientation and training sessions. Activities of Library volunteers are carried out under the general supervision of Library staff, according to their task.
Volunteers are required to comply with all relevant Board Policies, Administrative Policies, and standards of conduct established for volunteers. Performance feedback must be provided on a regular basis and as required.
The Board is grateful for the contributions of volunteers and will support formal recognition opportunities.
Approval: Evan Legate, 2024. Statutory: No.
In order to ensure that the Calgary Public Library can attract, retain, and motivate the calibre of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) critical to the fulfilment of the Library’s mission and strategic plan, the Board will, within the limitations of sound financial stewardship, establish and maintain a base salary range that is competitive with public libraries and the broader public and non-profit sectors and acknowledges the interests of stakeholders. Salary administration will be governed by the established range and will recognize the contribution of the CEO to the achievement of the Library’s business plan and strategic objectives.
The Chief Executive Officer will be eligible to participate in the Library’s Pension and Employee Benefit Plans. Perquisites, appropriate to the position and consistent with market practices, will be as reviewed and approved by the Board from time to time.
Approval: Evan Legate, 2024. Statutory: No.
As a vital community connection to the world of information and ideas, the Library provides the widest possible access to knowledge, thought, and creativity for information, learning, inspiration, and enjoyment. To accomplishthis, the Library provides a broad range of print and digital resources for users of every age and ability.
Through its collections, the Library encourages reading, helps develop literacy skills, and fosters life-long learning. The collections support formal and informal education and inform, entertain, enhance, and enrich individual lives. The collections:
The Library’s collection development strategies are aligned with the Library’s Strategic Plan and with the goal of ensuring that the breadth and depth of the Library’s collections are both reflective and inclusive of the diversity within our communities. To ensure that content is discoverable, accessible, and responsive to different needs, the Library continually seeks new ways of making resources available, by evaluating and implementing emerging formats, technologies, and curation strategies.
As part of this work, the Library works with relevant agencies to provide content in alternative formats to individuals with special needs, such as print or perceptual disabilities. In particular, the Centre for Equitable Library Access (CELA) was established in 2014 with the goal of supporting and assisting public libraries in delivering accessible library materials to Canadians. The partnership with CELA enables the Library to provide a broad selection of books, media, and digital resources to users with print disabilities in the formats of their choice.
In considering content for inclusion in the collection, Library staff exercise their professional judgment, using criteria such as currency, availability, imaginative quality, appeal, and the unique contribution that each resource makes to the overall collection. The whole of a work or a resource rather than a part is always considered when making a selection decision.
Other criteria include:
An item need not meet all of the above criteria to be selected.
Materials created partially or wholly using Artificial Intelligence (AI) may be added to the collection if they meet the materials selection criteria above.
Requests by individual patrons for the inclusion of content, including self-published materials, will be considered by the Library through the application of the criteria in this policy.
Ultimate responsibility for the policy that determines and guides selection and access of materials rests with the Board. The task of selection is delegated to the Chief Executive Officer who directs this activity to qualified and knowledgeable staff.
The Board recognizes that this policy is carried out in compliance and with due regard for all applicable legislation.
Intellectual Freedom
While Library staff may assist patrons, the ultimate right and responsibility for the choice and use of Library Materials rests with the individual.
The Library is guided in this work by the Intellectual Freedom Policy and endorses the Canadian Federation of Library Associations’ Statement on Intellectual Freedom, and the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions’ Statement on Libraries and Intellectual Freedom.
The Library endeavors to provide a representative collection that is inclusive of a variety of ideas, perspectives, and voices. The availability of content within the Library’s collections does not indicate endorsement by the Library. The Library recognizes that some resources selected for its collections may be regarded as controversial, unconventional, or unpopular.
Parental Responsibility
Responsibility for children’s or teens’ choice and use of resources rests with their parent(s) or legal guardian(s). Selection for the adult collection is not restricted by the possibility that children or teens may access resources their parent(s) or legal guardian(s) may consider inappropriate. The Library believes in the freedom of the individual, and the right and obligation of parent(s) or legal guardian(s) to guide, develop, interpret, and maintain their own code of values in their family. The Library will not limit individuals' access to content included in its collections.
Collection Maintenance
To maintain collections that support community interests and demands, Library staff carry out an ongoing program of collections maintenance to ensure that content is current, relevant, and that physical collections are in good condition.
Resource Sharing and Interlibrary Loans
The Library participates in resource sharing initiatives and Interlibrary Loans to ensure members have the greatest possible access to resources of interest to them. The Library follows the principles and guidelines outlined in Resource Sharing Operational Policy for Public Libraries, Alberta Municipal Affairs, December 2012, updated October 2015.
Reconsideration of Library Resources
Requests for reconsideration of materials may be made in writing to the Request for Reconsideration Committee. All such requests will be reviewed in light of the Collections policy and a written response to the request will be provided to the originator of the request. A member may appeal the decision to the CEO.
Approval: Gillian Hynes, 2026. Statutory: Yes
The Library Services Agreement governs the issuance of a Valid Library Membership and use of library services.
Approval: Evan Legate, 2024. Statutory: No
All circulating Library Materials may be borrowed by a Library Member as set out in the Library Services Agreement. Terms and conditions, including Loan limits and periods, are established, and administered by the Chief Executive Officer.
Schedule A sets out the current Loan limits and periods.
Reference materials in specialized collections, such as Calgary’s Story, or easily damaged or rare materials, may be used only under the supervision of a staff member.
Approval: Evan Legate, 2024. Statutory: Yes
Hours of Opening
The Board authorizes the Chief Executive Officer to establish Hours of Opening for all Library Premises.
Access
Every member of the public shall have access during the Hours of Opening to those public areas normally used for Library purposes or designated for Library purposes. The Library may also grant after-hours access for public and private bookings under the conditions set out in the Calgary Public Library Terms and Conditions of Room Use.
Conduct
All persons using Library Premises shall conduct themselves so as not to disturb other patrons or cause damage to Library property as per the Library’s Code of Conduct, Terms and Conditions of Room Use, and Political Use of Library Space Policy.
Intellectual Freedom
The Library is guided in this work by the Intellectual Freedom Policy and endorses the Canadian Federation of Library Associations’ Position Statement on Intellectual Freedom, the City’s resolution on Freedom to Read Week, and the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions’ Statement on Libraries and Intellectual Freedom. Libraries have a core responsibility to safeguard and foster free expression and the right to safe and welcoming places and conditions. To this end, libraries make available their public spaces and services to individuals and groups without discrimination.
Food and Beverages
Consumption of food and non-alcoholic beverages only will be permitted in designated areas of Library Premises, provided such activity does not interfere with the use and enjoyment of Library Premises by other patrons or result in any damage to Library Materials, furnishings, or equipment.
Patrons who consume food and beverages on Library Premises may be held liable and accountable for any damage, repair, or additional expense that may be incurred because of this activity.
Program Rooms, Event Spaces, and Other Library Spaces
Program rooms and any areas of Library Premises not used for Library purposes may be reserved for use by groups under the conditions set out in the Terms and Conditions of Room Use. The use of program rooms and event spaces must also adhere to the Library’s Code of Conduct, Public Access Network Terms of Use, and Political Use of Library Space Policy.
Approval: Evan Legate, 2025. Statutory: Yes.
Establishment and Review of Fees
The Board authorizes the Chief Executive Officer to establish fees in accordance with the Act and the Regulations. All Library fees shall be reviewed by the Board on an annual basis.
Fees for Issuance of Membership
Subject to the Act and the Regulations, there shall be no fee for the issuance of membership for persons who are permanent residents of Calgary, for non-residents who own or rent property in Calgary, and for persons living on First Nations and Métis Settlements in Alberta.
There shall be a fee for the issuance of membership for persons who do not meet these requirements, as set out in Schedule B.
Reciprocal Borrowing
Notwithstanding the fee for non-resident membership, as set out in schedule B, the Board may enter into reciprocal arrangements with other library boards or vendor partners in Alberta providing for a waiver of such non-resident fees.
Recovery Fees
The Library may charge recovery fees for expenses incurred in providing specific services outlined in Schedule B, including, but not limited to: printing, scanning, and photocopying; research; document delivery; rentals of space; and charges for lost or damaged property or materials.
Approval: Gillian Hynes, 2026. Statutory: Yes.
Loan Limits
Library Member: 99 items with the following exceptions:
|
Adult DVDs |
30 items per Library Member |
|
Children’s DVDs |
30 items per Library Member |
Holder of The Alberta Library [TAL] Card: 5 items
Loan Periods
|
All circulating materials, with the exception of DVDs |
3 weeks |
|
DVDs |
1 week |
Other Loan Limits and Loan Periods may be imposed in accordance with the terms of licenses for electronic resources.
Fee for Non-resident Library Members
$112.00/year (total for all family members at one address)
Recovery Fees for Lost and Damaged Library Materials
The price in the bibliographic record determines the replacement cost of lost or damaged Library Materials.
Recovery Fees for Courses, Programs, and Special Events
Admission to Library programs is normally free. In exceptional circumstances, a charge may be implemented. Any such charge may be waived for individual patrons in financial hardship.
Rental Fees for Library Program and Event Spaces
Booking Library program rooms in community library locations is normally free to those with a valid Library membership. Rental fees may apply for third party renters of large-scale event spaces at the Central Library and Memorial Park Library as outlined in the following chart.
Program Rooms in All Locations
Not-for-profit rate** — No charge
Regular booking — No charge
Patricia A. Whelan Performance Hall
Not-for-profit rate** — $100/hour
Regular booking — $250/hour
Staff/ Security Fee
Not-for-profit rate** — $60/hour
Regular booking — $60/hour
Combined Fee
Not-for-profit rate** — $160/hour
Regular booking — $310/hour
Performance Hall with Level 0 Meeting Rooms
Not-for-profit rate** — $200/hour
Regular booking — $500/hour
Staff/ Security Fee
Not-for-profit rate** — $60/hour
Regular booking — $60/hour
Combined Fee
Not-for-profit rate** — $260/hour
Regular booking — $560/hour
Shaikh Family Welcome Gallery
Not-for-profit rate** — $270/hour (Flat rate $2,000)
Regular booking — $333/hour (Flat rate $2,500)
The use of the Library’s program rooms and event spaces are governed by the Calgary Public
Library Terms and Conditions of Room Use and other related policies
The Library privileges of any person who is in breach of any section of the Library Premises Use and Safety policies or the Library’s Code of Conduct may be suspended or revoked at the discretion of the Person in Charge in each Library Premises.
Any patron whose Library privileges have been suspended or revoked may appeal to the Chief Executive Officer or designate for reinstatement.
Any person who willfully contravenes any section of the Library Premises Use and Safety policies or who willfully retains any Library Materials from the Library is guilty of an offense pursuant to the Act, and may be liable to such penalties as are specified in the Provincial Offence Procedures
Act (Alberta), RSA 2000, c. P-34; the Trespass to Premises Act (Alberta), RSA 2000, c. T-7; and the Petty Trespass Act (Alberta), RSA 2000, c. P-11, in addition to any liability that may attach civilly or under the Criminal Code, RSC 1985, c. C-46.
Any fee imposed pursuant to the prosecution of an offense under this section inures to the benefit of the Board in accordance with the Act.
Approval: Evan Legate, 2024. Statutory: Yes.
The definition, collection, use, and disclosure of personal information are conducted in accordance with POPA and its associated regulations.
A Library Member will be given access to personal information contained in the Library Member’s record upon request and without charge. A fee may be charged for other information in accordance with ATIA.
Approval: Gillian Hynes, 2026. Statutory: Yes.
As a vital community connection to the world of information and ideas, the Library provides access to the internet. This access is provided to support patrons in their lifelong learning pursuits and as a complement to traditional materials. The Library provides access to the internet and other electronic resources through its Public Access Network (Network).
Access to the Network is governed by the Library’s Public Access Network Terms of Use. The Board delegates its authority to the Chief Executive Officer for the administration of the Public Access Network Policy.
Intellectual Freedom
While Library staff may assist patrons, the ultimate right and responsibility for the choice and use of internet resources rests with the individual. The Library is guided in this work by the Intellectual Freedom Policy and endorses the Canadian Federation of Library Associations’ Position Statement on Intellectual Freedom, the City’s resolution on Freedom to Read Week, and the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions’ Statement on Libraries and Intellectual Freedom.
The Library does not advocate the ideas and opinions found in internet resources. The availability of information does not indicate endorsement of its content by the Library. The Library recognizes that some resources may be regarded as controversial, unconventional, or unpopular.
Parental Responsibility
Responsibility for children’s or teens’ choice and use of resources rests with their parent(s) or legal guardian(s). It is the responsibility of parents or guardians to block internet access or choose unfiltered access for their children and teens and to guide their children’s and teens’ internet activity.
Approval: Evan Legate, 2024. Statutory: No.