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March is here! As winter begins to fade (in theory!) and the first signs of spring appear, the Canmore Library is ready to help you embrace the change of seasons. Spring is the perfect time to refresh your home and your bookshelf! Don't miss the Spring Book Sale, where you can browse thousands of books at amazing prices, and join us at the Goose Moon Swap, focused on trading clothing, accessories and home décor to refresh your space. With tons of other exciting events and programs lined up, there is truly something for everyone at the Canmore Library! Keep reading to discover everything the Library has to offer, along with all the latest news and updates! |
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Endowment Fund Campaign Wrap-Up
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 We are thrilled to share that, thanks to our incredible community of supporters, the 2025 Library Endowment Fund Campaign was a resounding success!
Through your generous donations, and those of our matching donors, $35,057 was raised for the Canmore Library Endowment—what an incredible achievement!
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed to the Growing Our Library, Growing Our Community campaign, including our Library Champions, matching donors, and all those who helped spread the word. Your support truly made this possible, and we are beyond grateful.
While the campaign may have ended, it’s never too late to make a difference! Donations to the Library Fund are gratefully accepted year-round through the Banff Canmore Foundation.
Your continued generosity helps secure the library’s future and ensures it remains a vibrant resource for our community for years to come. |
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Children's Area Couches Refresh
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As patrons of the Canmore Public Library, you know that the Children's section of our Library is very well-used.
Because of that, it was in need of some refreshing and this has just been completed.
The Friends of the Canmore Library Society had received a generous donation from the Lohnes Family Fund at the Calgary Foundation, and this money was put towards refurbishing and reupholstering the two children’s couches.
It looks great and will be a durable and practical enhancement of the furniture. We appreciated the donation from the Lohnes Family that made the improvements possible.
Check out the new look next time you are in the Library! |
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International Women's Day Book Lists
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 March 8th is International Women's Day! Join us in honoring the remarkable women who have shaped history and continue to inspire change today. Explore our curated book lists for all ages featuring the stories, achievements, and voices of women past and present. From memoirs and biographies to fiction and thought-provoking non-fiction, these books are sure to inspire and empower! |
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Library of Things Feedback
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 Expanding our Library of Things is an important part of our 2024-2027 Strategic Plan. We're always looking for new items to add to our collection that will benefit our community, and we'd love to hear from you! Is there something you wish you could borrow from the Library? A tool, device, or gadget you think others would enjoy too? Share your ideas with us by filling out this quick feedback form. Thanks for helping us grow! |
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 Calling all Canmore high school writers! Celebrate the excitement, challenges, and magic of winter across Canada in our bilingual Canadian Winter Adventures student writing contest. French and English speaking senior high students (Grades 9–12) are invited to submit their original, thought-provoking or creative writing pieces. Entries may be fiction, non-fiction, poetry, or a book review inspired by winter in Canada. - Cash prizes will be awarded in four categories
- Submission deadline: March 7, 2026
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 The book sale will be open to the general public from Friday, March 20 - Sunday March 22. There will be special early bird access to Friends of the Canmore Library members only on Thursday March 19. Friends of the Library memberships can be purchased at the sale for $5, cash only. Book sale hours are as follows: Thursday, March 19 (Friends members only): 5:00 - 8:00pm Friday, March 20: 3:00 - 8:00pm Saturday, March 21: 10:00am - 5:00pm Sunday, March 22: 10:00am - 3:00pm *$10 fill a bag - Sunday only* Please bring your own bag to the sale. Come browse through thousands of hard cover and soft cover books for all ages at incredible prices - all in support of your local library. See you there! Book donations are accepted at the Canmore Library anytime during our operating hours. |
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 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. |
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Monthly Full Moon Swap: Goose Moon
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Swap clothing, accessories, home décor & trinkets in celebration of the Goose Moon! The March full moon, known as the Goose Moon, marks the return of wild geese and the first signs of spring. It's the perfect time to refresh your space and welcome the season of renewal. Bring clean, gently used clothing, accessories, and home décor items (think throw pillows, lamps, candles, wall art, and more) and swap them for something new-to-you. When: Friday, March 6| 5:00–7:30 PM Saturday, March 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. |
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The Library Studio Presents: Beginner Latin Lesson
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 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 welcome! When: Tuesday, March 10 | 6:00 - 7:00pm
Where: Friends Program Room |
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Author Visit with Dr. Karen Lee
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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 |
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Participants will: - find out what the Future Leaders Youth Council is, what they do, why they do it, and how to join
- test their general knowledge across 5 trivia topics including movies, sports, environment, geography, and music
- learn about glaciers and glacier preservation and free upcoming events being held in celebration of International Day of the Glacier
When: Monday, March 16 | 7:00 PM Where: Friends Program Room About the presenter: The Future Leaders Youth Council is an out-of-school program for high schoolers offered by the Biosphere Institute that focuses on taking action against climate change. The group meets bi-monthly to discuss environmental topics and to plan community events, workshops, and more! For more information about the youth council, visit their webpage. |
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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. March 4: The Great Escaper Bernie, a veteran, causes alarm at the care home when, with the support of his wife, he secretly sets off for Normandy to attend the 70th anniversary of D-Day. News of his "escape" makes him an international sensation. Directed by Oliver Parker. Rated PG. Runtime: 1h 36m. Click here to view the IMDb listing. 2023 release. When: Wednesday, March 4 | 7:00 PM Where: Friends Program Room March 18: Frankenstein This iconic horror film follows the obsessed scientist Dr. Henry Frankenstein as he attempts to create life by assembling a creature from body parts of the deceased. Aided by his loyal misshapen assistant, Fritz, Frankenstein succeeds in animating his monster, but it escapes into the countryside and begins to wreak havoc. Directed by James Whale. Rated PG. Runtime: 1h 10m. Click here to view the IMDb listing. 1931 release. When: Wednesday, March 18 | 7:00 PM Where: Friends Program Room |
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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 *Please note: there will be no Tech Tips and Tutoring sessions on March 11, 18, 25, and April 1. If older patrons need tech support during this time, two wonderful tech-savvy volunteers are available through the Seniors’ Centre to help. |
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 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 |
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 Mark your calendars! Our bi-annual Clothing Swap returns this April for the spring edition.
Refresh your wardrobe without spending a dime, and reduce waste in the process! Bring your gently used clothing, shoes, and accessories, and trade them for something new-to-you. All sizes, genders, and ages welcomed and encouraged. Please no household items, toys, or non-clothing donations. Drop off your clean, gently loved donations at the Canmore Library between April 4 and April 12 at noon. Swap Hours: Friday, April 10: 5:00pm - 7:30pm Saturday, April 11: 10:00am - 4:00pm Sunday, April 12: 10:00am - 2:00pm Where: Friends Program Room, Canmore Public Library A huge thank you to the Bow Valley Homelessness Society for their ongoing collaboration on the community swaps! Interested in volunteering for the Swap and getting a first look at the items? Contact us here! |
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Author Visit with Shannon Hurst
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Join us for an author talk and community conversation with Shannon Hurst, whose work explores grief, loss, resilience, and life transitions.
Shannon will share from her latest book, My Love/Hate Relationship with Death, drawing on lived experience and thoughtful reflections on how we carry grief over time.
This gently facilitated session invites open conversation and offers space to reflect on loss as a natural part of life, and how to make space for it without rushing the healing process.
When: Thursday, April 16 | 6:30pm
Where: Friends Program Room
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 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: March 6, April 17, May 29 | 10:30-11:30 a.m. Where: Friends Program Room |
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 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! |
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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. |
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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. |
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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! |
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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. |
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Stories On Demand Check out our Youtube channel for lots of online storytimes and story express videos to enjoy storytime at home! |
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  Books 'N Banter's next meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 24, 2026 from 7:00 - 8:00pm in the CPL meeting room. We'll be reading When All is Said by Anne Griffin. 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. |
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Reading Rainbow Book Club
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 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. |
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 Looking for expert tips on fitness, nutrition, mental health, and more? Check out Women’s Health magazine! This popular lifestyle magazine offers practical advice, inspiring stories, and evidence-based guidance to support women in every stage of life. Check out the latest issue during your next visit to the library, or explore our collection of back issues for even more wellness inspiration. Women's Health is published 4 times a year, and back issues (up to 2 years) are available to borrow from the Library. You can also explore the digital collection anytime with your Canmore Library membership through the Libby app or through Press Reader, our free digital magazine platforms. |
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Children's Author Visit with Sarah Steger  Thank you so much to travel writer Sarah Steger for visiting us on Saturday and sharing her beautiful debut picture book "The Girl Who Carried the World in Her Backpack!" The library kiddos had such a fun time hearing about Sarah's travels and adventures, and writing and drawing about places they have been and would like to go. It was such a wonderful way to celebrate Valentine's Day with a love of literacy, learning, dreaming, and imagination! And keep an eye out for Sarah's book in the TRAC catalogue. Coming very soon! Photos by Joseph Organo: @shotsbyseph The Library Studio Presents: Explore the World of Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Balsamic with Evoolution Another exciting evening with Evoolution in the books! Thank you to Evoolution for bringing this delicious experience to the Canmore Library, and to everyone who joined us to take part. We hope you had as much fun (and discovered as many new flavours!) as we did. Earth Talks: Small Acts, Shared Impact It was such a fun and informative evening, and also a wonderful way to learn about Indigenous author and activist Robin Wall Kimmerer's "Plant, Baby, Plant" movement, which strives to bring people together from around the world to share how they are taking regenerative action to care for the Earth in terms of restoring habitat, protecting biodiversity, and organizing to defend the people and places they love. |
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Online Memberships & Renewals
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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!  |
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Follow us on social media to stay up to date on our programs and other Library offerings, fun tips and tricks, staff picks and great posts like these: |
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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! |
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