Library supports for newcomers

Overview

Alberta’s public libraries offer valuable resources for newcomers to Canada.

At your local library, you can:

• borrow books and other materials
• access computers and internet
• learn English and other languages
• find resources on immigration services
• find resources on job seeking
• learn about Canadian history and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples
• access a safe and free public space
• read and learn for pleasure

There are more than 300 libraries in Alberta and over 14 million items in the public library network. Anyone with a home library card can access resources and services in-person at any other library in the Province.

Digital resources

Government funds the following digital resources that are available at every library in the province:

• PressReader – Offers digital world newspapers and magazines in multiple languages
• Pronounciator – A language-learning software where people can learn English and other languages
• Overdrive – Emagazines and audiobooks
• Read Alberta eBooks Project – Features books by Alberta publishers through a partnership with the Book Publishers of Alberta and includes the Prairie Indigenous eBook Collection
• Resources for people with print disabilities and visual impairments through the Centre for Equitable Library Access and the National Network for Equitable Library Service. CELA and NNELS offer titles in multiple accessible formats for people who need to read differently because of a print disability or visual impairment

Programs and support

Many public libraries in Alberta have in-person programs and supports specifically for newcomers to Canada. The following are some examples of libraries that offer programs and supports:

• Brooks Public Library and Shortgrass Regional Library System
• Calgary Public Library
• Edmonton Public Library
• Fort Saskatchewan Public Library
• Grande Prairie Public Library and Peace Library System (Regional)
• Lethbridge Public Library and Chinook Arch Regional Library System
• Medicine Hat Public Library and Shortgrass Regional Library System
• Red Deer Public Library
• St. Albert Public Library
• Yellowhead Regional Library in North-Central Alberta has recently put together specific resources for their libraries to support newcomers from Ukraine

Find a library location near you: Alberta Public Library Directory

Contact

You can contact the Public Library Services Branch for assistance connecting with your local library:

Phone: 780-427-4871
Toll free: 310-0000 before the phone number (in Alberta)
Email: [email protected]

Address:
17th Floor, Commerce Place
10155 102 Street
Edmonton, Alberta  T5J 4L4