Through an extensive consultation process, a common vision has emerged of a new central library serving as a focal point for the city, a public gathering space that celebrates the city’s past, present and future, and reflects the spirit of an educated, entrepreneurial, and creative city.

The new central library will be accessible to Calgarians of every age and ability, and designed to meet the increasingly sophisticated service expectations of library users, as well as to provide much needed space for collections, services and programs. It will be an instantly recognizable example of architectural excellence with an enduring quality and civic presence that will be a prominent source of pride and inspiration for Calgarians.

• The dynamic hub and heart of an integrated network of library locations, supporting and ensuring access to 21st century library services for Calgarians in all parts of a growing city
• A resource and feature-rich destination that adds to the quality of life for every Calgarian, providing an open, safe and public place for debate and discovery, learning and empowerment, interaction and reflection, community building and engagement
• A valued community and cultural asset that helps make Calgary, and its downtown, a special place where people want to live, work and visit
• A trusted place and visible symbol of this great community’s high regard for ideas, information and knowledge
• A civic landmark and outstanding example of sustainable public architecture that makes a significant contribution to revitalization, expands the public realm and adds vitality to the Centre City.