In this Issue
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News and Updates
Hello, February!
We are Hiring
Library Closed February 16
Yoto Cards Now Available
New Video Games Now Available
Thank You to the Cimpl Family
Most Borrowed Books of 2025
Freedom to Read Week
From the Friends of the Library
Spring Book Sale Save the Date
Become a Friend
Programs & Events
Adult Programs
Monthly Full Moon Swap: Snow Moon
Explore the World of Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Balsamic with Evoolution
Spoken Word and Slam Poetry Workshop
Children's Author Visit: Sarah Steger
3D Printing for Kids
Earth Talks: Small Acts, Shared Impact
Movie Night
Tech Tips & Tutoring
Chess Night
Upcoming Programs
The Library Studio Presents: Beginner Latin Lesson
Author Visit with Dr. Karen Lee
Partnership Programs & Events
Loose Parts Playtime
Storytimes
Tales for Toddlers
Books for Babies
French Family Storytime
Preschool Storytime
Storytimes on Demand
Book Clubs
Books N' Banter
Reading Rainbow Book Club
Featured Magazine of the Month
Nature Alberta
Program & Event Recaps
Links and Resources
Online Memberships & Renewals
Find Us Online
Contact Us!
 Having trouble reading this email?
Click here to read it online. 
News and Updates
Hello, February!
 
With one of the coldest, snowiest months of the year upon us, the Canmore Library is the perfect place to come warm up!
 
Open seven days a week, the Library is a safe, warm, and welcoming space for everyone. Whether you're cozying up with a good book, settling in to study, catching up with friends, or enjoying a peaceful moment by the fireplace, we’re here for you.
 
This month's lineup of exciting events and programs is the perfect excuse to get out of the house and out of the cold! From a Children's Author Visit and 3D Printing for Kids to Movie Nights, Chess Nights, and our Monthly Full Moon Swap, there's truly something for everyone.
 
Keep reading to discover everything the Library has coming up this month, along with all the latest news and updates!
We are Hiring
 
Join Our Team!
 
We are currently accepting applications for the position of Library Clerk—Circulation Assistant/Programmer.
 
Applications will be accepted until February 13, 2026 at 5:00pm. Please visit our website for the complete job description and how to apply.
Library Closed February 16
 
The Canmore Library will be closed on Monday, February 16 for Family Day. We will resume regular operations on Tuesday, February 17 at 10:00am.
 
Wishing you a safe and happy holiday!
Yoto Cards Now Available
 
Yoto Cards are now available to borrow from the Canmore Public Library!
 
Yoto Cards are pocket sized cards that contain a children's audiobook. Simply insert the card into your Yoto player or tap the card on your phone after downloading the Yoto app to start listening. Listen to Peppa Pig, Paw Patrol, and Dragon Masters stories! Come to the library to check out our entire collection.
 
For those who don't have a Yoto Player at home, you can borrow one from our Library of Things!
New Video Games Now Available
 
Our video game collection is growing!
 
Thanks to the positive response to our initial launch, and based on your game suggestion feedback, we've already added four new Nintendo Switch titles to our video game collection:
  • Animal Crossings: New Horizons 
  • Super Mario Party Jamboree (fun for the whole family!)
  • Pikmin 4
  • Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (another family favorite!)
If you’d like to see this collection continue to grow, please let us know your suggestions the next time you’re in the library.
 
(Want to check out these games but don't have a Nintendo Switch? Borrow one from our Library of Things!)
Thank You to the Cimpl Family
 
We would like to send out a heartfelt thank you to the Cimpl family for their generous donation towards our Spanish collection of materials.
 
Visit the library today to check out all the new Spanish titles that have been added to our children's and juvenile collections.
Most Borrowed Books of 2025
 
We've rounded up our most borrowed books of 2025 for you!

These are the titles our patrons couldn't put down last year from our Adult and Young Adult collections, covering everything from epic fantasy and bestselling fiction to travel guides and local non-fiction interest reads.

Visit our website to explore the full Most Borrowed Books list, learn more about each title, and place a hold on any you’d like to check out yourself!
Freedom to Read Week
 
Freedom to Read Week will be held from February 22 to February 28, 2026. This annual event encourages Canadians to consider and reaffirm their commitment to intellectual freedom.
 
At the Canmore Public Library, we support your freedom to read what you want year round. We celebrate your right to access diverse ideas and viewpoints—without censorship.
 
We've created a book list of banned or challenged books on our website. Take a look, place a hold, and flex your intellectual freedom!
 
We will also have an in-house book display featuring banned and challenged books throughout February for you to explore and check out items from. 
 
Join the Digital Day of Action! (Feb 23)
 
Show your support by joining the national Digital Day of Action for Freedom to Read Week on Monday, February 23, 2026!
 
The Canmore Library, along with many other libraries and literary organizations across Canada, will be sharing a united message in support of intellectual freedom and the right to read.
 
At 12:00 pm EST, post on social media using #FTRW26 and #FreedomToRead, and include freedomtoread.ca, or simply share our social media post that will be going out at that time!
From the Friends of the Library
Spring Book Sale Save the Date
Family Shopping a Library Book Sale
 
Mark your calendars! The Spring Book Sale is coming up March 19 - 22. Get ready to stock up on gently loved books at incredible prices — all in support of your local library!
 
Book donations are accepted at the Canmore Library anytime during our operating hours.
Become a Friend
Become a member of the Friends of the Library,
We are convinced it is the best deal in town!
  • $5 for an individual membership annually
  • $10 for a family membership annually
The benefits of becoming a member of the Friends of the Library include:
  • Gaining early admission to book sales.
  • Receiving the Friends of the Library newsletter three or four times a year. It is an excellent way to keep current on the Friends' activities, to share thoughts on libraries, books and films and to keep informed about literary prizes. 
  • Reduced price for special programs offered by the Friends.
  • Knowing that you are supporting our amazing Library. Last year the Friends of the Library donated over $19,000 to enhance the Library's programs and resources, now and in the future. 
  • The opportunity to attend  the Annual General Meeting in October and to vote on business pertaining to the Friends of the Canmore Library Society.
Some ways for you to become a member:
  • Simply fill in the online membership form.  Make an E-transfer for the amount of the membership to friends@canmorelibrary.ab.ca. 
  • Make a print copy of the form, fill it out, put it in an envelope with cash or cheque and bring it to the Library.
  • Have one of the Library staff do the processing of your membership the next time that you are in the Library.
  • Attend the first night of the next book sale. At that time, the membership director will be there selling memberships and after purchasing yours, you can get  priority attendance at the Book Sale.
Your membership is valid until August 31, 2026. 
 
Questions or suggestions for the Friends? Get in touch by emailing friends@canmorelibrary.ab.ca
Programs & Events
Adult Programs
Monthly Full Moon Swap: Snow Moon
 
Monthly Full Moon Swap: Snow Moon
 
Swap winter clothing, gear, and winter sport items in celebration of the Snow Moon!
 
The February full moon is known as the Snow Moon, because it's typically the time of year when the heaviest snowfalls occur. With that in mind, let's help our community prepare for the cold weather ahead with a community swap of winter items and winter sport gear—just in time for the Coldest Night of the Year!
 
What to Bring (and Discover!)
Swap clean, gently used items such as:
  • Winter clothing
  • Warm blankets, scarves, and hats
  • Cozy winter gear like mittens, ski jackets, snow pants, boots and wool socks
  • Winter sports equipment and gear like skis, skates, sleds and snowboards
 When: Friday, February 6| 5:00–7:30 PM
                Saturday, February 7 | 10:00 AM–2:00 PM
Where: Friends Program Room
 
Donations accepted anytime during Swap hours, until 1:00pm on Saturday. No donation required to take items home!
 
We’re also collecting non-perishable food donations for the HSBV Community Food Cupboard, helping ensure everyone stays nourished through the colder months.
 
This program is presented in partnership with the Homelessness Society of the Bow Valley (HSBV), with support from the Town of Canmore.
Explore the World of Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Balsamic with Evoolution
 
Library Studio Presents: Explore the World of Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Balsamic with Evoolution
 
A reminder for those who are registered! Discover the flavours, production, and health benefits of fresh extra virgin olive oils (EVOO) and balsamic vinegars at this guided tasting led by experts from Evoolution.
 
Learn what sets high-quality EVOO apart while sampling a variety of oils and balsamics.
 
When: Tuesday, February 10  |  6:00 - 7:00pm
Where: Friends Program Room
 
Registration is now closed as this program is full. 
Spoken Word and Slam Poetry Workshop
 
Spoken Word & Slam Poetry Workshop
 
Join local author and poet Nikki Tate for a fun and interactive two-part workshop exploring spoken word and slam poetry.
 
Registered participants will write a poem and then practice performance and delivery with the group. Nikki will also discuss how to share work with a wider audience and offer tips for preparing for the spring slam at artsPlace coming up this February!
 
When: Wednesday, February 4 | 6:00–8:00 pm
Where: Canmore Library Meeting Room
 
Teens are welcome to attend with the understanding that some poets may explore mature themes. 
 
Registration is now closed as this program is full. 
Children's Author Visit: Sarah Steger
 
Children's Author Visit & Workshop with Sarah Steger

Meet local author and illustrator Sarah Steger as she shares her new picture book The Girl Who Carried the World in Her Backpack and leads a creative writing and drawing workshop for kids ages 8-12. This will be a fun, hands-on event celebrating curiosity, courage, and imagination!

When: Saturday, Feb 14 | 10:30 am–12:00 pm 
Where: Friends Program Room
 
Registration is required as space is limited.
3D Printing for Kids
 
3D Printing for Kids
 
Have you seen our 3D printer, Ralph, in action at the library? Ever wonder how it works? Then join us at 3D Printing for Kids!
 
In this hour long program, children 8-12 are invited to learn the basics of 3D printing. We'll see what kinds of 3D printers exist, how they work, and what they can make. Participants will also be guided by library staff through a beginner 3D modelling tutorial on TinkerCAD to design a model of their very own.
 
When: Friday, February 20 | 3:00 - 4:00pm
Where: Friends Program Room
 
Registration is required as space is limited. 
Earth Talks: Small Acts, Shared Impact
 
Small Acts, Shared Impact: Growing Food Sovereignty at Home and in the Community
 
Discover how everyday food choices can create meaningful change for your health, your community, and the planet.
 
Join Michelle Backhouse from the Bow Valley Food Alliance for an engaging evening exploring food sovereignty and practical, accessible ways to take action.
 
This session includes a hands-on sprouting demonstration using simple household materials, plus guidance on growing fresh, affordable nutrition year-round.
 
When: Monday, February 23 | 7:00 PM
Where: Friends Program Room
 
Registration is required as space it limited. 
Movie Night
Join us at the Canmore Library for  Movie Night!
 
Selections vary between classics and new releases. Admission is FREE, donations accepted.
 
We'll supply the popcorn, so just bring a pillow and your friends! Make yourself at home and enjoy the cinematic experience.
 
February 4: Don't Lets Go to the Dogs Tonight
 
In this adaptation of Alexandra Fuller's memoir, we see into the tumultuous world of 8-year-old Bobo, whose childhood unfolds on her family's Rhodesian farm, now Zimbabwe, as the Bush War rages to its bitter end. It explores the family's bond with Africa's land and the war's impact on the region and individuals through Bobo's perspective.
 
Directed by Embeth Davidtz. Rated14A. Runtime: 1h 39m. Click here to view the IMDb listing. 2024 release. 
 
When: Wednesday, February 4  |  7:00 PM
Where: Friends Program Room
 
February 18: Good Fortune 
 
A well-meaning but rather inept angel named Gabriel meddles in the lives of a struggling gig worker and a wealthy capitalist with the intention of showing them that money doesn't solve all of life's problems.
 
Directed by Aziz Ansari. Rated 14A. Runtime: 1h 37m. Click here to view the IMDb listing. 2025 release. 
 
When: Wednesday, February 18  |  7:00 PM
Where: Friends Program Room
Tech Tips & Tutoring
 
Got tech questions? We’ve got answers! 
 
Need help moving files, using your tablet, setting up social media, or converting documents? Our Tech Tips and Tutoring sessions offer free, one-on-one help in a welcoming environment.
 
Drop by the Library front desk on Wednesday afternoons from 2–4pm for friendly tech support. Bring your questions and we’ll figure it out together!
 
When: Wednesdays  |  2:00 - 4:00 PM
Where: Drop-in at the Library front desk
Chess Night
 
Chess Night at the Library
 
Chess Night at the Library is the perfect place to play, learn, and connect with fellow chess players! Led by local chess enthusiast Eric Boerger, this fun and casual drop-in event welcomes players of all ages and skill levels—from beginners to seasoned strategists.
 
Chess sets will be available, but depending on attendance, you may wish to bring your own.

Please note: children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
 
When: Thursdays, January 8 – March 28  |  5:00 PM
Where: Canmore Public Library Meeting or Program Room
Upcoming Programs
The Library Studio Presents: Beginner Latin Lesson
 
The Library Studio Presents: Beginner Latin Lesson
 
With the approach of the Ides of March (March 15th, the day that Julius Caesar was assassinated by his senators in ancient Rome), it's the perfect time to learn some Latin!
 
Learn the foundational basics of the Ancient Latin language, including pronunciation, conjugation, short phrases, and history at this beginner lesson.
 
No prior knowledge of Latin necessary. Teens and kids welcome! 
 
When: Tuesday, March 10  |  6:00 - 7:00pm
Where: Friends Program Room
 
Registration is required as space is limited
Author Visit with Dr. Karen Lee
 
An Evening with Dr. Karen Lee
 
Join us for a special author event with Dr. Karen Lee as she presents her memoir Fit Cities: My Quest to Improve the World's Health and Wellness—Including Yours.
 
Discover how cities can be redesigned to support healthier living, based on Dr. Lee’s 20+ years of global public health work.
 
When: Thursday, March 12| 6:30 PM
Where: Friends Program Room
 
This event is offered with funding support from the Canada Council for the Arts through The Writers' Union of Canada.
Partnership Programs & Events
Loose Parts Playtime
 
Loose Parts Playtime Meets Preschool Storytime!
 
We're excited to partner with the Family Connection Centre to bring back this fun program crossover! 
 
On select dates this winter, Loose Parts Playtime will join Preschool Storytime for a morning of stories and hands-on exploration.
 
Drop-in with your children ages 3–6 for an engaging hour-long program filled with storytelling and creative play with open-ended materials like fabric, cardboard, stones, and more.
 
No registration required, just bring your curiosity and creativity!
 
When: February 13 & March 5  |  10:30-11:30 a.m. 
Where: Friends Program Room
Storytimes
Our Winter Storytime Session will run until March 27, 2026.
 
All storytimes are drop-in and are held in the Friends Program Room. While we plan each storytime with a specific age range in mind, everyone is welcome at all storytimes!
Tales for Toddlers
 
Tales for Toddlers
Mondays
January 5 - March 23
10:30 - 11:00 am
 
Walking babies and toddlers, along with their parent/caregivers, are invited to a half-hour program featuring active rhymes, music, movement and books. The program is designed to encourage active participation, build attention span, and to promote parent/child bonding.
Books for Babies
 
Books For Babies
Tuesdays 
January 6 - March 24
12:30 - 1:00 pm
 
A mix of board books, bounces, nursery rhymes, and music, this storytime is perfect for babies from 0-2 years old. This program is designed to assist in the acquisition of language and
to promote parent/child bonding.
French Family Storytime
 
French Family Storytime: Contes et Comptines
In partnership with Centre d’Appui Familial
Thursdays
January 8 - March 26
10:30 - 11:30 am
 
A lively mix of French stories, rhymes, and action songs, this storytime is perfect for children ages 0–5 and their caregivers. The program supports early language development, encourages cultural exploration, and helps foster a lifelong love of stories and learning — no French experience required!
Preschool Storytime
 
Preschool Storytime
Fridays
January 9 - March 27
10:30 - 11:00am
 
A mix of picture books, silly rhymes, and action-songs, this storytime is perfect for preschoolers aged 3-5 who are ready for longer stories. The program is designed to help build their attention span and foster a continual love of stories.
Storytimes on Demand
Stories On Demand 
  Check out our Youtube channel for lots of online storytimes and story express videos to enjoy storytime at home! 
 
Book Clubs
Books N' Banter
 
Books 'N Banter's next meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 from 7:00 - 8:00pm in the CPL meeting room. We'll be reading The Weight of Water by Anita Shreve. 
 
Registration for Books 'N Banter is currently closed as the program is full. If you would like to be added to the wait-list should an opening arise, please email  mlange@canmorelibrary.ab.ca. 
Reading Rainbow Book Club
 
The Canmore Public Library, in conjunction with the Bow Valley Safe Spaces working group, is proud to welcome you to the Reading Rainbow Book Club!
 
Our next meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 17, 2026. We will be reading Girl, Woman, Other by Bernardine Evaristo. 
 
Registration is required. Please complete the registration form found here.
 
Copies of each month's read will be available to registered participants through the Canmore Library.
 
Featured Magazine of the Month
Nature Alberta
Explore Alberta’s wild spaces, wildlife, and conservation stories with Nature Alberta Magazine, available at the Canmore Public Library! This 40 page, full-color magazine features stunning photography, in-depth articles that are both engaging and educational, and local perspectives on the plants, animals, and ecosystems that make our province unique.
 
Nature Alberta is published four times a year (seasonally), and recent back issues (24 months) are available to borrow from the library. 
Program & Event Recaps
Fireside Chats with Local Authors Joanna Croston, Sharon Wood, Sarah Hueniken
 
What a fantastic evening at the Canmore Public Library! 

Our sincere thanks to Joanna Croston, Sharon Wood, Sarah Hueniken, and Nikki Tate for such an inspiring and thought-provoking Fireside Chat on Tuesday, January 13th!

A big thank-you as well to Save-On Foods and Christine Nykoluk for the delicious snacks, and to Cafe Books for bringing books for Joanna and Sharon to sign and sell.

Missed the talk or want to enjoy it again? Watch the full Fireside Chat on our YouTube channel now!

Joanna's book "Mountaineering Women" and Sharon's book "Rising" can also be found in the TRAC catalogue, and information about Sarah's organization, Mountain Muskox, can be found at mountainmuskox.com.
 
The Library Studio Presents: Vision Board Workshop
 
Thank you to everyone who joined us for our Vision Board Workshop Library Studio event! 
 
It was such a fun and inspiring evening filled with big goals and tons of creativity. We loved seeing all the amazing visions you created for the year ahead!
 
Earth Talks: Tipi Lanterns with Samantha Smalleyes
 
Thank you so much to everyone who attended January's Tipi Lantern Earth Talk with Samantha Smalleyes and her sons, Hardy and Harden. It was such a beautiful evening of creativity, storytelling, and connection. 

And many thanks to Samantha and her family for leading this Earth Talk event, inviting us in and sharing their skills and stories with us.
 
The Woven World of James Reid: A Friends of the Library Speaker Series Event
 
Thank you to Glenda Waddingham from the Friends of the Library for organizing another fantastic Speaker Series event on Thursday night!
 
And thank you to Gail Niinimaa and Mary-Beth Laviolette for sharing such an interesting and intriguing presentation on the life and work of the late local textile artist, James Reid, and the conservation work that has been done on some of his work in the Glenbow and Canmore museums.
 
The Canmore Museum currently holds eight of Reid's pieces. For more information and contact info, visit their website.
Links and Resources
Online Memberships & Renewals
Did you know you can now sign up for a FREE library membership or renew your current membership online? Head over to our website to register (or renew) today! 
 
 
Find Us Online
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Contact Us!
You can contact us at the Library at 403-678-2468 with any questions you might have. The Library is open from 10am - 8pm Monday through Friday, and  from 10am - 5pm on Saturday and Sunday to help you access all the resources we offer!
 
Canmore Public Library
101-700 Railway Avenue
Canmore, Alberta T1W 1P4
403-678-2468

www.canmorelibrary.ab.ca