New Donor-Funded Outdoor Early Learning Centre Opens at Signal Hill Library

Calgary Public Library is delighted to announce the official opening of the Outdoor Early Learning Centre at Signal Hill Library, a vibrant new space designed to spark imagination, creativity, and connection for children and families in Calgary’s southwest.  

The Outdoor Early Learning Centre was made possible through the Calgary Public Library Foundation’s Pathway to Play Campaign, with special thanks to the Solid Foundation and Macquarie Group for their leadership support.  

“This beautiful new outdoor learning space is the result of community generosity,” says Tracy Johnson, CEO of Calgary Public Library Foundation. “Donors make it possible for the Library to offer creative, literacy-rich environments where families can connect, and children can thrive. We are deeply grateful to every supporter who has helped bring the Signal Hill Outdoor Early Learning Centre to life.” 

Open to the public during and outside of Library hours, the new Outdoor Early Learning Centre features: 

“The Signal Hill Outdoor Early Learning Centre is an innovative way to extend Library spaces for growing communities,” says Sarah Meilleur, CEO, Calgary Public Library. “We are building learning right into nature, giving young people a chance to explore, play, and connect with others — all activities that support important early literacy skill development in our communities. Through this space, we are not only shaping young minds — we're nurturing a lifelong love of learning and literacy.” 

The Signal Hill Outdoor Early Learning Centre joins a growing network of learning environments across Calgary Public Library locations, giving thousands of children each year access to play-based learning opportunities. 

Donors brought this project to life, and Calgarians can still be part of it through the Pathway to Play Campaign. Fifty supporters have already purchased window inscriptions at Signal Hill Library, adding their name or a meaningful message to the windows overlooking the Outdoor Early Learning Centre. Larger contributions unlock additional recognition opportunities within the space, ensuring every gift helps shape where Calgary’s children learn, play, and grow. Visit pathwaytoplay.ca to show your support. 

Quick Facts