Chinook Arch Regional Library System 2025 READ winners, from left: Chinook Arch executive director Robin Hepher, Taber Public Library manager Chris Vowles, Coaldale Public Library manager Kindra Birss, Pincher Creek Municipal Library reference assistant Ann Anderson, Pincher Creek Municipal Library manager Kayla Lorenzen, Pincher Creek Municipal Library outreach co-ordinator Samantha Bonwick and Lethbridge Public Library resource sharing librarian Jonathan Jarvie.
Throughout southwestern Alberta libraries serve an important role in their communities.
They listen to community needs and interests and create amazing programs, events, and opportunities to meet those needs.
Chinook Arch Regional Library System created the READ Awards to recognize excellence in library service, collaboration, innovation, community benefit, and transferability to other libraries.
The READ Awards were celebrated April 11 during the Southern Alberta Library Conference.
Coaldale Public Library earned a $600 READ Award for its Library in Motion: Empowering Community Through Skating program.
The library acquired 100 pairs of skates to loan to members.
Taber Public Library received a $600 READ Award for its Swiftie Party organized by a patron who is a Taylor Swift fan.
More than 200 people turned out for crafts, games and dancing.
Lethbridge Public Library earned a $400 READ Award for its seed library.
Patrons have been enthusiastic about both the seeds and the gardening resources available at the library.
Community members also rallied around the project, donating seeds to help the library thrive.
Pincher Creek Municipal Library received a $400 READ Award for three programs designed to support needs of seniors while meeting the needs of youth.
The programs are Generational Story Time, Daisy Reader Program, and Senior Tech Help.
Vulcan Municipal Library received a $400 READ Award for partnering with local businesses and organizations, and the RCMP: to fight scams that target seniors.
