March 2026 Newsletter
Empowering stories, unforgettable style, and the celebration of success — Voices in Vision: A Black History Month event honoring the resilience, creativity, and brilliance of our community.
 
Edible Book Day - Saturday, March 28
Mark your calendars!  The 3rd Annual Edible Book Day competition returns this month!  
 
This fun and family friendly celebration invites children and youth seventeen and under to create edible masterpieces inspired by their favourite books. It is a wonderful opportunity for young makers to showcase their creativity, their culinary imagination, and their love of literature.
 
Participants can enter in one of three age groups: 7–under, 8–12, and 13+. Advance registration is required and full event details will be available on our website soon. Prizes will be announced in early March.
Cochrane Indigenous Arts & Culture Week
Returning for a third year, this annual gathering brings forward artists, knowledge keepers, performers, and partners who share their stories and cultural expressions through a variety of experiences.
 
Throughout the week visitors can explore cultural activities including traditional practices, contemporary art, music, performances, and community events. These celebrations continue throughout the month with a new Indigenous art exhibition presented at multiple locations.
 
Join us as we honour the Iyarhe Nakoda people, as well as the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples whose cultures and histories continue to shape this land. Guided by the values of reconciliation, collaboration, and friendship, Cochrane Indigenous Arts and Culture Week creates a welcoming space to learn, reflect, celebrate, and build meaningful connections.
Outreach
Our outreach team is excited to be attending the Cochrane Newcomer Welcome Event on Saturday, March 14 from 1:00pm to 3:30pm at Frank Wills Hall.
 
We are proud to represent the library at this event hosted by the Cochrane Immigrant Services Committee, one of our strongest community partners. This welcome event is a wonderful opportunity for us to connect with newcomers, share information about our services, and highlight the many ways the library supports individuals and families who are new to Cochrane. We look forward to meeting everyone and welcoming them to our library community.
March Programs & Events
My Moccasins (8+)
Thursday, March 5
Author Visit: Sarah Steger
Saturday, March 7
Weaving Words & Hides
Wednesday, March 11
Join Indigenous Relations Liaison Valentina Fenton for a guided reading of My Moccasins by Duke Redbird, exploring themes of identity, community, and Indigenous tradition. Young learners will reflect on the cultural significance of moccasins through storytelling and discussion, followed by a creative moccasin-inspired craft.
 
The library is excited to welcome children's author Sarah Steger for a special afternoon of stories and creativity. Sarah will read from her new children’s book The Girl Who Carried the World in Her Backpack and talk about the inspiration behind her story.
 
Join us for storytelling with Judy and Elle Everson from Momma Moon Journeys. Together, they share traditional stories that celebrate Indigenous culture. As part of the program, they will bring a Buffalo hide, offering a powerful and tangible connection to the land and traditions woven into these narratives.
 

An Actor's Journey with Helmer Twoyoungmen
Wednesday, March 11
Discover the Bodhrán 
Monday, March 16
Cochrane & Area Hospice Awareness 
Wednesday, March 25
We are honoured to welcome Helmer Twoyoungmen of the Stoney Nakoda Nation -a n Indigenous actor known for his work in Drawing Home, the award-winning Dreamkeeper, and AMC’s Hell on Wheels, Helmer has built a career in film, television, and cultural teaching. In this engaging conversation, he will share insights from his acting journey and reflect on the importance of authentic Indigenous representation on screen.
 
 
Join us for a hands on introduction to the bodhrán, the traditional Irish frame drum that brings Celtic music to life. This beginner friendly program is led by Irish musician Sean Buckley, who will provide all hands on instruction and guide participants through simple techniques and basic rhythms. 
Join Chrystal Skead and Judy Copithorne from the Cochrane & Area Hospice Society for a brief talk on the resources and support available to individuals and families facing life-limiting illnesses and end-of-life journeys. Learn about available services and take part in an open conversation.
 
 
Check out our calendar for a full listing of programs and events!
Save the Date - Book Sale (April 18 & 19)
The Friends of the Library are looking for volunteers to help with their Book Sale on April 18 and 19. This important annual fundraiser relies on community support, and volunteer help makes a big difference. If you enjoy books, friendly community events, or simply want to lend a hand, we would love to have you join us. Click the link below to sign up and support the Friends of the Library.
 
Icons - Sign Up Here Button - Purple
 
eResource - Freegal
This month we are highlighting Freegal Music, a free streaming and download service available with your library card.
 
Freegal gives you access to more than fifteen million songs from over forty thousand music labels, including the Sony Music catalogue.
 
With Saint Patrick’s Day coming up, it is a perfect time to explore Freegal’s wide selection of Irish music, from traditional folk to contemporary artists. Whether you want festive tunes for celebrating or gentle Celtic music for relaxing, Freegal offers something for everyone.
Library Giving Day - April 1
Mark your calendars for Library Giving Day on April 1.
This national day of giving celebrates the essential role libraries play in literacy, learning, and community connection, and thousands of libraries across North America take part each year.
 
We are excited to participate once again and to bring back our Grow a Reader campaign with the tree and squirrels. All funds raised this year will go directly to supporting Cochrane Public Library programs and outreach, helping us bring more learning opportunities, events, and services to the community. 
The date may fall on April Fools Day, but the impact is no joke, as every contribution helps strengthen the programs for the community.
 
FULL DETAILS COMING SOON
Cochrane Public Library
405 Railway Street West
Cochrane, Alberta T4C 2E2
403-932-4353

www.cochranepubliclibrary.ca/