Calgary’s new Central Library will be a place that says the world lives here. And the world will say WOW!

Imagine a building defined by generosity, that’s twice as big as what we have now with enough space to accommodate diverse needs, extensive collections, quiet spaces for individual and group study, interactive exhibits and a dazzling array of programs.  Imagine a building that adapts to an ever changing environment, a cultural hub with signature service, powerful technology and special attractions on every floor.

Imagine special areas and special features:

• My Branch & Window on the World – A community library that’s open earlier and later with popular books, magazines, newspapers and CDs
• Technology Commons – With room for 500 computers, and the largest collection of e-resources in Canada, providing electronic access to the world
• The Family Room – Canada’s premier early literacy and learning centre with materials in every format. An interactive and entertaining place for children and families, with kid-friendly furniture and technology, and places for story-telling and play
• Teen Zone – A modern, trendy, and youth-oriented area, with cool lounge areas, study spaces, and sight and sound preview – a launch pad for 21st century literacy and life skills development
• Senior Living – Comfortable meeting, conversation and activity spaces just for seniors
• Global Village – Collections and services to help new Canadians develop language and citizenship skills – a place to build bridges of understanding between cultures
• BusinessWorks – Calgary’s leading resource area for business and investment information, databases, workplace readiness and career guidance
• New Technologies Showcase – The latest and greatest IT tools and toys, a hands-on environment where Calgarians can test drive new technologies
• Ability Centre – Providing accessibility to all with special adaptive technologies, collections and services
• Creative Calgary – An innovative “incubator” for writers and composers, with rehearsal and performance space located nearby
• Heritage Place – Calgary’s most publicly accessible heritage collection and services, celebrating local heroes and local history
• Spirituality Area – A special area for peace and reflection, complemented by a comprehensive world religion collection
• Bibliotech – Centre for the Book, where all ages can explore book crafts from the letterpress to desktop publishing