Civic Engagement and Elections

Being engaged in your community starts with understanding how decisions are made and how you can take part. Explore information about elections, divisions of power, and ways to participate at the federal, provincial, and municipal levels.

Through books, programs, events and trusted online resources, the Library is here to support you in staying informed and involved.

Get Ready for the October 19 Referendum

Take the next step and get ready to participate in Alberta's referendum this October. Visit Elections Alberta to confirm your voter registration and learn about voter eligibility, required ID, important dates, and voting options.

Planning your vote is an important part of making your voice heard on the issues that matter to Albertans. Take time to learn about the the ten ballot questions, explore different perspectives, and make an informed decision before heading to the polls.

What is a referendum?

A referendum is a vote by eligible voters on a specific question.

Why do we have referendums?

Referendums are used to gather public input on specific issues.

How is a referendum different than an election?

In a referendum you are voting on specific issues. In an election you vote to elect officials to represent you in government.

How does it work?

A question is proposed.
Requirements are reviewed.
Information is shared with the public.
The public votes.
Votes are counted.
Results are certified.

What happens next?

Results are announced publicly.
Governments review the outcome.
Decisions and next steps depend on a variety of factors such as existing legislation.

Prepare for the Referendum

Have a better understanding of the referendum process and the topics being voted on.

Attend a Referendum program

Referendum Facts

Ballots will be hand counted.

Alberta has held three referendum votes before 2026.

Referendums in Alberta are governed by the Referendum Act.

Civic and Media Literacy

Access to accurate information is central to being an active citizen in a democratic society.

Be on the lookout for:

Misinformation - false information that is shared, often inadvertently. For example, sharing a social media post that makes false claims without verifying the information.  
Disinformation - false information that is created and shared with the direct intention of misleading or manipulating the recipient of the information.  
Malinformation - false information that has some basis in fact, but has been removed from its original context, manipulated or exaggerated to be misleading.

If you’re not sure if something is factual, take a moment to check a second source or do a reverse image search to verify what you’re seeing or reading.

Check out opportunities at your local Library to learn more and practice identifying mis/disinformation.

The Value of Intellectual Freedom

Calgary Public Library is committed to the principles of intellectual freedom and to ensuring that we provide the widest possible access to information and resources, to encourage informed discussions, diverse opinions, and learning in our communities.

Learn more about the role of the Library in Intellectual Freedom