Coaldale Public Library receives grant

By Heather Cameron
Sunny South News

Coaldale Public Library received a grant of $6,000 from the Community Foundation of Lethbridge & Southwestern Alberta on May 7 at the Community Foundation’s Spring 2026 Grant Celebration at CASA Lethbridge.

“We are receiving $6000 to purchase roller blades and roller skates as well as multi-sport helmets,” said Kindra Birss, head librarian at Coaldale Public Library. “We have had such incredible success with our ice skate lending library, our library wanted to expand so that residents can enjoy free access to outdoor equipment outside the winter months.”

Birss emphasized that the library is excited to be able to offer accessible roller blades and roller skates in child through adult sizes free of charge with a library card, for patrons to be able to skate on the town’s Civic Plaza smooth surface, the newly renovated Kin Skate Park and the many paved pathways around Coaldale.

“This project is all about accessibility — giving children, teens, and adults the opportunity to try skating without the financial barrier of purchasing equipment,” said Birss. “We’re excited to offer something active, fun, and a little unexpected from the library, while continuing to support learning through play and community connection.”