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Special Services cards are given out based on self-assessed need. If you have any form of disability, health and/or mobility barrier that limits your ability to access the library, you are eligible for a special services card. To apply, please contact our trained staff at 403-260-2702, email special.services@calgarylibrary.ca, or visit us in person at Central Library.
Calgary Public Library offers inclusive services and adaptive technologies to support people with disabilities, including Special Services cards that provide extended loan periods, access to large print books, Talking Books via DAISY readers, and home delivery through the Homebound Readers program. The Library partners with care homes for Libraries in Residence and collaborates with CELA to expand accessible materials. Multiple locations feature assistive workstations with tools like braille displays and text-to-speech devices. Sensory backpacks help patrons with sensory processing disorders enjoy library spaces. These programs emphasize accessibility, flexibility, and community engagement across Calgary’s library system.
Source: https://calgarylibrary.ca/your-library/locations/cent/
The Calgary Public Library offers inclusive services and programs designed to ensure accessibility across all branches and digital platforms, meeting WCAG AA web standards. Their Special Services provide accessible materials like large print and talking books, plus electronic aids for patrons unable to visit physically. The Sensory Backpacks program supports children with sensory processing disabilities through community partnerships, offering tools at select locations to aid self-regulation. With a focus on accessibility, diverse programming, and community engagement, the library fosters equitable access to resources and events for all users.
Source: Calgary Public Library Accessibility Page
Calgary Public Library delivers inclusive services and resources through accessible facilities, adaptive technologies, and specialized collections including large print, talking, and digital books. Its Special Services program supports individuals unable to visit physically by providing tailored materials and tools. The library hosts community-focused programs like the Sensory Backpacks initiative—offered at multiple branches in partnership with Variety – the Children’s Charity and Calgary Heritage Lions Club—to assist children with sensory processing disabilities. Committed to accessibility, the library ensures WCAG AA-compliant digital access and fosters an inclusive environment for learning, engagement, and exploration.
Source: Calgary Public Library Accessibility Content
Calgary Public Library offers inclusive services and programs tailored for individuals with disabilities, including a Special Services Library Card with extended loan periods and flexible returns. Key initiatives include the Homebound Readers Program delivering materials to patrons at home, Libraries in Residence mini-libraries in care centers, and accessible digital resources via the Libby app and CELA’s audiobooks. Facilities feature adaptive computer workstations, assistive tools like braille displays and magnifiers, plus large print and talking book collections. The library also hosts events supporting accessibility through specialized equipment such as DAISY audiobook players. Contact 403-260-2702 for access or program enrollment.
Source: https://calgarylibrary.ca/read-learn-and-explore/digital-library/libby
Calgary Public Library, with over 650,000 members and 20 locations, offers extensive services including free membership benefits like borrowing physical and digital books, e-resources (OverDrive, Rosetta Stone), meeting room bookings, WiFi, printing, and Early Learning Centres. The library hosts diverse programs such as family events, storytimes, tours, and community arts. Policies include late fine forgiveness during special promotions. Recent renovations enhance technology and spaces city-wide ahead of the new Central Library opening. Events like Love Your Library Day promote engagement through activities and prizes while supporting library initiatives via fundraising sales. Learn more at https://calgarylibrary.ca/Love-Your-Library
Read more about "Come Discover What's New and Wonderful at Calgary Public Library on Love Your Library Day"Calgary Public Library delivers comprehensive services including assistive technologies like electronic Braille displays and text-to-speech readers to support accessibility. It fosters community involvement through nearly 30 volunteer programs for all ages and offers free, reservable meeting spaces such as the Millar Family Learning Room and Terentiuk Space for adult education. The Central Library features engaging areas like the Early Learning Centre and artistic book murals, promoting creativity and lifelong learning. These offerings reflect the library’s commitment to inclusivity, education, and community engagement.
Source: Calgary Public Library - Selected Content
Calgary Public Library offers diverse services including special exhibits like the Royal Tyrrell Museum fossil display, unique lending of musical instruments, and arts initiatives such as the Contemporary Calgary Art Pass for free gallery access. It supports community engagement through art exhibit spaces, Rozsa Arts free performances and workshops, an Indigenous artist residency program, and paid facilitator roles in cultural programs like Caretakers of the Land. The library encourages partnerships to expand events, workshops, and exhibits across locations, fostering inclusive cultural experiences and creative learning opportunities. Source: calgarylibrary.ca
Read more about "Calgary Public Library Services Productions Programs and Events including Royal Tyrrell Museum Pop-up Fossil Display Arts Culture Initiatives Artist Residency and Unique Lending Services"Calgary Public Library offers extensive resources, programs, and events focused on community engagement and social responsibility, including special Truth and Reconciliation initiatives such as Indigenous exhibitions, film screenings, virtual panels, and interactive activities. Committed to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, the library provides access to educational materials and support services addressing residential school impacts. It also fosters partnerships like with YMCA Calgary for new locations and relies on volunteers to deliver meaningful programming while advocating for privacy and local control in library services. Visit their website for detailed policies, event schedules, and ongoing community programs.
Source: https://calgarylibrary.ca/library-news/calgar y-public-library-is-recognizing-national-day-for-truth-and-reconcilation
Calgary Public Library offers diverse volunteer-driven programs like Homebound Readers and Libraries in Residence, delivering books to individuals with mobility or health challenges and providing mini-libraries in seniors’ residences. Committed volunteers such as Nellie Befus exemplify the library’s dedication to literacy, community engagement, and accessibility through reliable service and personalized support. The library fosters lifelong learning via events, outreach initiatives, and special services tailored for varied needs. Its policies emphasize inclusivity and sustained volunteer involvement to enhance access to resources citywide. Learn more at https://calgarylibrary.ca/your-library/volunteer/adult-volunteers/homebound-readers
Read more about "Nellie Befus: Calgary Public Library’s Oldest and Longest-Serving Volunteer"Calgary Public Library, celebrating 110 years with over 745,000 active members and 21 locations, offers extensive services including 19,000 annual programs, digital and physical circulations exceeding 14 million, and community spaces totaling 334,500 sq ft. Their policies emphasize privacy and local control amid ongoing advocacy. The library hosts events like Love Your Library Day featuring free family activities, performances, contests, and exhibitions. Strategic plans for 2023–2026 focus on growth and innovation. Partnerships with organizations like YMCA enhance service reach. Stay updated via their website and social media (#110Together) for news on programs, policies, and special celebrations.
Source: https://calgarylibrary.ca/events-and-programs/events