Making the Most of the Central Library’s Resources

The Central Library is one of the most iconic landmarks of Downtown East Village. Located at 9th Avenue SE and 3rd Street SE, this building acts as both a cultural and physical space to connect people. Some may see it as a tourist attraction, however the Central Library has much to offer for locals as well. These include digital resources, free meeting rooms, and events to take part in. 

The digital resources part of the Central Library are all accessible via a library card. The digital library covers various subjects including film, STEM, reading, and learning. Kanopy and Kanopy Kids allows library card owners to stream over 30,000 documentaries, classic films, and learning videos. CodeCombat is a game that kids can teach kids Python or Javascript coding while allowing them to collect gems or defeat enemies. Libby is the platform that allows users to borrow digital books, audiobooks, and magazines. The final resource we’ll discuss is the Learning Express which provides practice tests and tutorials for everyone Grade 4 and upwards.

The library offers meeting and events rooms available and can be booked 30 days in advance. These rooms include the BMO Financial Group Community Rooms, the Patricia A. Whelan Performance Hall, and Rooms 0-13 and 0-14. The amount of seating ranges from 50 to over 300 seats perfect for functions such as performances or private functions. 

Lastly the library offers multiple events for a wide span of age groups. These events include the Holiday Spending Treadmill, a free financial class (November 9 from 6:30-7:30pm in Room 0-13). There’s another course called “How to Motivate Your Employees to Stay in the Face of the Great Resignation” on November 24 at 12:00-1:00pm in Room 0-13. A project-based mini hackathon is occurring November 26 from 10:00am to 4:30pm in the room with the yellow door on the third door. This hackathon happens every last Saturday of the month, and everyone is encouraged to come ready to code. A more recreational event called, “Let’s Colouring and Coffee” takes place on Christmas Eve at noon in Room 3-20A. The library hosts much more so check out their website to learn more. 

To conclude, the Central Library is more than just a flashy place for tourists. It is a great and valuable resource for residents of the Calgary East Village to use to learn, host events, and much much more.