Educators

Readers and Leaders

Today a Reader, Tomorrow a Leader

Readers and Leaders is a year-long Library program from September to June for Grade 3 classes. Community leaders and first responders share fun, interactive activities focused on literacy and active citizenship to help students explore what it means to be both a reader and a leader.

Applications will only be open in May each year for the upcoming school year.

Submit an application of interest

Child wearing a Leaders and Readers backpack at a library event.

Person in uniform holding a Leaders and Readers booklet.

Program Highlights

Library Field Trip

Students visit their local Library location for a guided tour, interactive games, and time to explore and borrow children’s books and materials.
*Busing is included if required.

Family Event

Students, families, and teachers are invited to an after-school celebration at the Library featuring snacks, games, prizes, and a First Responder Storytime.

Families can also:

Sign up for free Library cards
Borrow books and materials
Explore digital resources and services available through the Library

Year-end Celebration

The program concludes with a special school celebration recognizing students’ learning and participation throughout the year.

Students receive a gift book and a special visit from the Calgary Police Service, such as exploring a police vehicle or meeting officers from a specialized unit (visit subject to availability).

Community member and person in uniform speaking with children during a Leaders and Readers program.

Each year includes:

A September Meet-and-Greet and Planning session for teachers and Library staff
Eight visits with Calgary Police Service members, with Calgary 911 joining as available
One visit with the Calgary Fire Department
Monthly book browsing and borrowing
A Field Trip to the a Library location
A Family Event at the a Library location
A Year-end Celebration visit in June

Readers and Leaders Program FAQ

What is the criteria for choosing a school?

Readers and Leaders prioritizes Grade 3 classes with students who have significant reading support needs or who would benefit most from the program. Acceptance is based on several factors, including the school’s capacity to host the program and provide teacher support, Grade 3 class sizes, Library availability, and other considerations.

Can I apply if my school has participated in the past?

Absolutely!

Can I apply if I teach at a charter or private school?

Yes! Please ensure your school fits the above criteria before expressing interest.

Can I apply for my split grade class or a grade that is not Grade 3?

Readers and Leaders is designed for Grade 3 students only. Those with split grade classes will need to find alternate opportunities for the students in the other grade during the session times.

I co-teach with another Grade 3 teacher. Can we apply for all of our Grade 3 students?

Provided the school has an appropriate space for several Grade 3 classes to participate at once, Readers and Leaders can accommodate up to 100 Grade 3 students per session.

Is there a cost to this program? Are there busing costs?

Readers and Leaders is generously supported through the Calgary Public Library Foundation. There is no cost to the school or caregivers. School bus fees to the Library field trip, if required, are included.

What is the role of the teacher and school in this program?

Library staff and first responder volunteers are invited guests in the classroom during monthly Readers and Leaders visits. The September visit and teacher application help establish a shared understanding of the classroom environment and how the program will run at the school. During the program, teachers and schools support Readers and Leaders by:

attending a 30-minute planning meeting with Library staff and CPS in September
providing classroom management and student supervision during visits
being present and participating during classroom sessions. When educators read, sing, write, dance, and play, students are more likely to participate
reserving suitable spaces at the school for program visits
distributing caregiver communications and collecting RSVPs for program events
arranging caregiver volunteers for the library field trip
personalizing bookplates for student book gifts
communicating any challenges, feedback, suggestions, or concerns
completing student pre and post program evaluations and the year-end teacher survey

How can I support my students in getting Library cards?

Send this form home with your students for parental consent to easily obtain their free Library card. With this card, they can enjoy free programs, access various supports, borrow up to 99 items, and much more!

How do I support my students’ families in understanding the program?

At the start of the school year, you will be provided with a brochure for each of your students to take home. It shares information about what happens and pictures of the program in action.

Is Calgary Public Library an approved field trip provider for my school board?

Calgary Public Library partners with both the Calgary Board of Education and the Calgary Catholic School District. We are an approved field trip provider.

My school is located outside of Calgary city limits. Does my school qualify for Readers and Leaders?

Readers and Leaders is currently only available to schools located within Calgary city limits.

Who do I contact at the Library if I have questions or feedback about Readers and Leaders?

You can direct questions regarding Readers and Leaders to readersandleaders@calgarylibrary.ca