The Calgary Public Library has announced a historic milestone, revealing that it circulated a record-breaking 17.5 million items in 2025. This remarkable figure underscores a surging demand for library services among Calgarians, reinforcing the institution's position as an indispensable community hub.
Unprecedented Demand for Books and Digital Content
According to the annual service numbers released on Monday, the library's total circulation reached its highest point ever. The record includes over 11 million physical materials and an additional 6.5 million digital titles. Library officials expressed surprise at the scale of the increase, with physical book circulation jumping by 21% and overall circulation growing by more than 15% compared to previous years.
"Our service numbers continue to show that Calgary Public Library remains a critical resource and community hub for Calgarians," stated CEO Sarah Meilleur in a news release. Mary Kapusta, Executive Director of Communications and Engagement, noted the figures were unexpected. "Obviously, Calgarians love their library," Kapusta said. "(But) the number was even surprising to us."
Digital Access and External Factors Fuel Growth
Kapusta attributed the significant uptick to several key factors. The continued rise in digital borrowing, ease of access to the digital library via mobile devices, and improved curation of available titles all played a major role. "I think that all led to more people being curious about our collections, more people visiting our collections, engaging either digitally or browsing the shelves," she explained.
An external event also contributed to the spike in usage. The provincial teachers' strike led to a noticeable surge in library activity during its weeks-long duration. "We had to rush a bunch of books, we had to buy more books (and) we had to move books around the system," Kapusta recounted, highlighting how the library adapted to meet sudden community needs.
More Than Books: Technology and Community Spaces in High Demand
While borrowing numbers hit new heights, the library's role extends far beyond books. The organization reported "huge demand" for its technology services and community spaces. In 2025, the library's 22 locations welcomed seven million visitors and served more than 815,000 active members.
The library also delivered a robust program schedule, offering over 18,000 programs that attracted upwards of 360,000 attendees. These initiatives ranged from early literacy programs to outreach events, emphasizing the library's commitment to lifelong learning and digital equity. Providing resources for workforce support, small business tools, and general technology access has become a core part of the library's mission.
The record-breaking circulation numbers serve as powerful evidence of the community's value of free, accessible information and services. As demand grows across both physical and digital realms, the Calgary Public Library solidifies its status as a foundational pillar for education, connection, and opportunity in the city.
