“The library is such an important part of our child’s learning experience; we really appreciate everything you do.” – Chelsea, mother of a 4-year-old
This comment from a patron underlies the importance of a public library in early childhood literacy.
Tens of thousands of parents and their children (or their caregivers) come to Airdrie Public Library (APL) every year, participating in all sorts of programs and events. It’s worthwhile understanding how all these are paid for.
APL is a board-run, non-profit society and, like other public libraries in Alberta, we are a service provided by municipalities under the Libraries Act. In our case, we are governed by a board comprised of Airdrie City councillors and volunteers.
Alberta libraries are funded through the local tax base, with additional funding at the regional library system level and by a provincial library operating grant.
This funding provides brick-and-mortar services and staff payroll. But everything else, such as our collections and all the nuts, bolts, and widgets required to meet the literacy needs of the community, come from the generous support of local businesses, collaboration with other social agencies, various grants, and from donations given by Albertans.
One of the ways APL sees this generous support is through fundraisers, such as our Grow a Reader campaign. Year after year, this popular program raises important funds for the library.
It’s easy to participate in this fundraiser, and you can donate online through our website or stop by in person at the library.
The money you generously donate goes to purchasing new children’s books and materials for the programming that parents, their children and caregivers enjoy.
This year’s campaign launched this week and will run until May 31.
For more information on how to donate, or on any of APL’s programs and services visit airdriepubliclibrary.ca, call 403-948-0600 or stop by our downtown facility during open hours.
