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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 and access to large print books, Talking Books, and DAISY readers. Programs like Homebound Readers and Libraries in Residence deliver materials to those unable to visit locations. The library ensures accessibility through assistive devices such as braille displays, electronic magnifiers, and adjustable workstations across multiple branches. Sensory backpacks aid patrons with sensory processing disorders. Calgary Public Library fosters equitable access through partnerships like CELA for Canadians with print disabilities. Source: https://calgarylibrary.ca/your-library/locations/cent/
Read more about "December 3 is International Day of Persons with Disabilities – Special Services and Accessibility at Calgary Public Library"The Calgary Public Library offers inclusive services and programs across multiple locations, featuring accessible materials like large print and talking books, specialized technology, and digital resources compliant with WCAG AA standards. Its Special Services support patrons unable to visit physically, while the Sensory Backpacks program aids children with sensory processing disabilities by providing tools to self-regulate during visits. The library prioritizes physical accessibility at facilities such as the Central Library and hosts community events promoting engagement for all users. These initiatives ensure equitable access to knowledge and community participation throughout Calgary.
Source: Calgary Public Library Accessibility & Special Services Page
Calgary Public Library offers inclusive services and programs emphasizing accessibility across physical locations and digital platforms, meeting WCAG AA standards. Their Special Services Program provides accessible materials like large print books, talking books, and electronic aids for patrons unable to visit in person. The library partners with community organizations to offer Sensory Backpacks at select branches, supporting children with sensory processing disabilities and autism. With a commitment to removing barriers, Calgary Public Library ensures equitable access through specialized resources, events, and supportive policies tailored to diverse needs.
Source: https://calgarylibrary.ca/your-library/accessibility
Calgary Public Libraries deliver inclusive services for patrons with disabilities, offering Special Services library cards with extended loan periods and access to large print, talking books, and DAISY audiobooks. Programs like Homebound Readers and Libraries in Residence bring materials directly to those unable to visit. Digital resources include the Libby app and CELA’s accessible e-texts compatible with assistive software. Multiple branches provide accessible computer workstations featuring screen readers, magnifiers, adaptive keyboards, and assistive devices such as braille displays and listening aids. These offerings ensure equitable access through tailored programs, policies, events, and technologies for all Calgarians.
Source: https://calgarylibrary.ca/read-learn-and-explore/digital-library/libby
Calgary Public Library delivers inclusive services with assistive technologies like CCTVs, Braille displays, and text-to-speech readers to support all abilities. It fosters community engagement through nearly 30 volunteer programs for youth and adults. The library offers free, flexible meeting spaces such as the Millar Family Learning Room and Terentiuk Space for Adult Learning, promoting education and collaboration. Unique Central Library areas include an Early Learning Centre for children and a creative Book Mural space, enriching visitor experiences across ages. These comprehensive programs and policies emphasize accessibility, learning, and community connection.
Source: Calgary Public Library - Accessibility & Services Overview
Calgary Public Library, with over 650,000 members and 20 locations, offers extensive services including free memberships granting access to physical and digital books, audiobooks, e-resources like OverDrive and Rosetta Stone, meeting rooms, WiFi, printing, and Early Learning Centres. The library hosts diverse programs such as family events, storytimes, tours, and workshops. Policies include late fine forgiveness during special promotions. Renovations across community branches enhance technology and spaces ahead of the new Central Library opening. Events like Love Your Library Day celebrate community engagement with activities and prizes. Visit calgarylibrary.ca/Love-Your-Library for details.
Source: 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’s Central Library at 800 3 Street SE offers diverse services including meeting spaces, performance halls, children’s and teen areas with digital commons, quiet reading rooms featuring local history collections, and artist residencies. It supports community engagement through free weekly tours, group tours for newcomers and schools, and accessible facilities. Visitors can book spaces and access extensive digital resources anytime. Conveniently located with public transit options and paid parking nearby, the library fosters learning, creativity, and inclusivity through its programs and events. Source: https://calgarylibrary.ca/events-and-programs/programs/central-library-tour/
Read more about "Calgary Public Library Central Library Services Programs and Tours"Calgary Public Library offers diverse services including extensive resources, community programs, and special events focused on education and cultural awareness. Committed to Truth and Reconciliation, the library hosts Indigenous-themed programming, exhibitions, film screenings, and interactive activities that support healing and learning. Policies emphasize accessibility and community engagement through local branches and online platforms. Recent initiatives include poetry workshops and a new Early Learning Centre to foster literacy from an early age. The library actively collaborates with partners like the University of Calgary to enhance educational outreach while providing support for those impacted by residential schools. For details, visit calgarylibrary.ca/truth-and-reconciliation.
Read more about "Calgary Public Library Recognizes National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with Resources and Programming"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 with events, outreach initiatives, and special services tailored for all ages. Its policies emphasize inclusivity and volunteer empowerment to enhance public 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 the "110 Together" festival, offers extensive services across 21 locations, serving 745,000 active members (56% of Calgarians) with over 19,000 annual programs and 14 million circulations. Key events include Love Your Library Day featuring free family activities, performances, contests, and giveaways. The library emphasizes community engagement through exhibitions, archives displays, and strategic planning for 2023–2026. Facilities span 334,500 sq ft of space supporting digital and physical resources. Policies promote accessibility and member rewards while fostering lifelong learning via diverse programs like poetry workshops and early learning centers. Source: https://calgarylibrary.ca/events-and-programs/events
Read more about "Join us to kick-off the fun with Love Your Library Day on October 15 and Celebrate 110 Years of Calgary Public Library"