Calgary Public Library belongs to everyone. It’s a place where everyone can explore, express and exchange ideas, and create their own stories. Everyone in our community can feel seen, heard, and accepted at the Library. 

Alongside community partners including Calgary Pride, the Library is proud to celebrate Pride Week. Pride Week isn't just an opportunity to celebrate the 2SLGBTQIA+ community — it’s also a chance amplify voices and help initiate important conversations.  

We are here to open doors and to encourage informed discussions, diverse opinions, and learning in our communities. We know that, often, challenged books in our community include sexuality, gender, and 2SLGBTQIA+ content. Calgary Public Library is committed to upholding the principles of intellectual freedom by providing the widest possible access to information and resources. 

Pride Events at the Library 

From August 21 – 30, the community will gather at the Library for events that range from an All Ages Drag Show, to a Downtown Gay History Walk, and of course, the Pride Parade. All locations will have buttons that you can make and take home. Select locations will have colouring murals. 

View details of some events below or visit our website for the full list. 

YOU-phoria: All Ages Drag Show
Central Library | Thursday, August 21 | 2:00 – 5:00 pm 

This variety show features local emerging drag artists. Performances will include lip-syncing, dance, comedy, acrobatics, and more.

In partnership with Camp STAR. 

Creating a Culture of Respect for Gender and Sexual Diversity
Fish Creek Library | August 25 | 6:30 – 8:00 pm 

Through interactive activities and discussion, participants will explore the differences between sex, gender, and sexual orientation, while discussing the impacts of homophobia, biphobia, transphobia on 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals. 

In partnership with The Centre for Sexuality. 

We Say Gay: Queer Kid Lit and Censorship in the Sunshine State 
Central Library and Virtual | August 27 | 7:00 pm  

There has been an increase in the censorship of information for young people about queer issues. Dr. Kenneth Kidd will use Florida as a case study in this lecture. He will speak about the current controversies of queer literature for kids and the longer history of Florida LGBTQ2S+ community and activism. 

Presented in Partnership with The University of Calgary's Calgary Institute for the Humanities. 

Becoming an Ally: Being an Engaged Bystander
Crowfoot Library | August 30 | 2:00 – 3:00 pm 

Learn about 2SLGBTQIA+ allyship in this interactive workshop. Discussions will include strategies to address discrimination and prevent harassment. 

In partnership with The Centre for Sexuality. 

For booklists, resources, and events that you can attend year-round, visit calgarylibrary.ca/pride.