The Friends of Canmore Library organization was established in 1993 by a committed group of local library supporters. It's a CRA registered charity which exists to support the Canmore Public Library, normally providing the Library with annual grants in the range of $10,000 - $20,000 for the purchase of items beyond the scope of the Library's regular budget. Priorities include collection development - books, magazines, audio books, DVDs and e-books for adults and children - as well as ... Read More
The Friends of Canmore Library organization was established in 1993 by a committed group of local library supporters. It's a CRA registered charity which exists to support the Canmore Public Library, normally providing the Library with annual grants in the range of $10,000 - $20,000 for the purchase of items beyond the scope of the Library's regular budget. Priorities include collection development - books, magazines, audio books, DVDs and e-books for adults and children - as well as library programs. Thanks to a generous bequest, The Friends have recently upgraded and updated the Library's audio-visual capabilities with new wiring, screen and projector for the Friends Program Room and a mobile screen for use throughout the Library.
In the past 20 years alone, The Friends have raised and contributed $445,000 to support Library operations, including the Canmore Library Endowment Fund. In 2019, the Friends of Canmore Library Society provided a founding gift of $20,000 to this fund held by the Banff Canmore Foundation. As it grows, the Canmore Library Endowment will generate annual income for the Library.
When the Library moved into Elevation Place in spring 2013, The Friends presented a cheque for $100,000 to help cover the cost of new shelving and furnishings. We're now in the process of updating some of the Children's Area furniture, thanks to donations.
The Friends' Speaker Series is a Canmore tradition which offers informative and entertaining presentations, often by adventurous local residents. Admission is by donation and programs take place periodically.
In 2015 the Friends of Canmore Library Society received two significant awards: the Mayor's Award for Volunteer Excellence in the corporate not-for-profit category and the 'Gabriele Schreiber Friends of the Year Award' in the large friends group category, from Friends of Canadian Libraries (FOCAL).
Membership in the Friends of Canmore Library Society is generally in the range of 170. Annual memberships are $5 for individuals and $10 for families. The membership year runs from September 1 to August 31. One of the key benefits of Friends membership is early access to book sales, and to our popular newsletter.
The Friends of Canmore Library raises funds at three volunteer-run used book sales, in March, July and November each year. We also generate funds through beverage recycling and donations.
For more information, contact us at friends@canmorelibrary.ab.ca.
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