It’s been a very busy summer here at Airdrie Public Library (APL), with record-breaking numbers coming through the doors and programs juggling limited space to meet the needs.
We had 23,435 visits this July, up by 2,421 in July 2018, again highlighting the need for a larger facility – which, thankfully, the City has seen as a priority for our growing population.
However, until then, APL management and staff continue finding ways to make our current location work, a problem met with creativity and enthusiasm.
Even though we take our mission seriously – to foster literacy, knowledge and cultural connections, and inspire lifelong learning, imagination and creativity through our inclusive programs, services and collections (noble pursuits requiring years of education and training for staff) – working in a library is just plain fun.
You simply cannot ignore the infectious joy erupting from young learners as they enter the Children’s Area or participate in the TD Summer Reading Club.
The buzz of older youth hanging out in The Makerspace for robotics or coding programs is just as inspiring. And, of course, you can’t help but be tickled by the sheepish grins on the faces of adults bravely giving summer art or craft classes a go.
However, all this fun and busyness requires planning, which is why our programmers like to take a break at the end of a session to renew their energies and prepare for what’s coming.
As such, except for a few adult programs, most of APL’s programming will be on hiatus starting Aug. 19.
No worries, though – online registration for APL’s huge fall lineup starts Aug. 26, with the first of the programs launching Sept 9.
A few highlights: Star Wars Reads Day, Pumpkin Palooza, Dungeons & Dragons Group, Wiggle Wednesday, Teen Write Night, Tween Zone, ART Saturdays and an adult and children’s author series.
Stop by the library or visit airdriepubliclibrary.ca to view our Fall Programs and Events guide.
