Coaldale Public Library participates in province-wide Day of Action on Oct. 1

Posted on October 1, 2026 by Sunny South News

By Kristine Jean
Sunny South News

The Coaldale Public Library will join libraries across the province Thursday, for the Alberta Public Libraries Day of Action on Oct. 1. 

The move comes in response to Bill 28, Municipal Affairs and Housing Statutes Amendment Act, 2026, that received Royal Assent in May. It includes amendments to the Municipal Government Act, Housing Act and the Libraries Act. 

Bill 28 gives the Minister of Municipal Affairs power to regulate public library access, borrowing, and operations. 

As part of the province-wide initiative, the Coaldale Public Library will be closed for the day to allow staff and library leadership dedicated time for policy development, staff training, planning, and implementation work related to the recent changes introduced through Alberta’s library legislation and regulations.

In a press release last week, Coaldale Public Library disclosed uncertainty over the changes and stated that “public libraries across Alberta are currently working to understand and prepare for significant legislative changes that affect how libraries are governed and operated.” 

While Coaldale Public Library said they will comply with all provincial requirements, the Coaldale Public Library Board shares concerns expressed by library organizations and boards across the province regarding changes that expand ministerial authority and reduce local decision-making.

“The Board affirms that public libraries must remain locally governed, community-responsive, and committed to equitable access to information,” read the release. “The Board is concerned that these legislative changes could negatively impact library operations, budgets, and the public’s ability to freely access information.” 

Board Chair, Candace Langworthy, reinforced that view.  

“Public libraries are strongest when they are governed locally and remain responsive to the communities they serve,” said Langworthy. “While we will comply with the new legislation, we believe local library boards play a vital role in ensuring library services reflect community needs and values.”

The Alberta Public Libraries Day of Action on Oct. 1, not only provides an opportunity for library staff and leadership to prepare for the changes but also  reaffirm the principles that define public library service including, intellectual freedom, equitable access to information, lifelong learning, and welcoming service for all.

“This day allows us to focus on the important work of implementing new requirements while continuing to advocate for the role of public libraries in strong communities,” said Kindra Birss, Head Librarian. “We remain committed to providing the high-quality services and programs our community relies on every day.”

October 1 also marks the beginning of Canadian Library Month, and Coaldale Public Library is inviting the community to celebrate. Throughout October, every visit to the library earns patrons an entry into a draw for a gift card to Analog Books. Community members can receive an additional entry by sharing online why they love the library and tagging Coaldale Public Library in their post.

“At a time when Alberta libraries are navigating significant change, community support and engagement are more important than ever,” read the release. “We encourage residents to celebrate Canadian Library Month by visiting the library, participating in programs, and supporting the public library services that help build strong, informed, and connected communities.”

The Coaldale Public Library will reopen on Friday, Oct. 2, at 11 a.m.