The Alberta government is investing $39 million in Budget 2025 to support the role public library services play in communities across the province.
The funding will be distributed to 225 public library boards, including seven intermunicipal boards, municipalities, Métis Settlements and First Nations communities.
“Libraries have always played an important role in the lives of Albertans and our communities,” said Municipal Affairs Minister Ric McIver. “Budget 2025 maintains funding for local libraries at an all-time high and, in turn, helps those who make libraries possible keep up the great work.”
Public libraries serve as hubs for learning, connection and discovery.
Continued support for local library boards ensures they can keep meeting the evolving needs of their communities.
With this funding, libraries will continue to offer vital services such as basic computer skills courses, community events and a range of programs that help Albertans thrive.
“The public library community is grateful to the Government of Alberta for another year of stable grant funding, which is indispensable to libraries for serving the nearly five million citizens of this great province,” said Ron Sheppard, director of the Parkland Regional Library System.
Breakdown of the $39-million investment:
- $33.6 million in operating grants
- $5.4 million for network support and branch operations, including:
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Alberta-wide borrowing and interlibrary loan services (including a government-funded courier system)
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Connection of all service points and regional library headquarters through the Alberta SuperNet
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Provincewide e-content services (including Read Alberta eBooks and eMagazines)
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Resources for individuals with print disabilities
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Training for Alberta Public Service employees in accessible document creation
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There are 327 public library branches across Alberta, serving municipal, regional and First Nations communities. These are governed by 225 municipal, intermunicipal and First Nations public library boards, and supported by seven regional library systems.
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