Brooks Public Library Commemorates 75 Years of Community Connection with Year-Long Celebration

Brooks Public Library is proud to announce that 2026 marks its 75th Anniversary. Since first opening its doors on March 10, 1951, in the basement of the Ladies Community Rest Room, the library has grown from a modest collection of 2,000 books to a vibrant community hub serving the City of Brooks and the County of Newell.

To honour this milestone and thank the community for seven and a half decades of support, the Library Board is pleased to announce that all library memberships will be free for the duration of 2026. The standard $10 annual fee for adult memberships is waived for all residents within the Shortgrass Library System until December 31, 2026. Patrons with current memberships expiring in 2026 have already had their memberships automatically extended by one year.

"Seventy-five years is more than just a milestone for an organization; it represents generations of curiosity, learning, and connection," says Lisa Patton, Library Director. "By offering free memberships this year, we want to ensure that every resident has the opportunity to explore our resources as we celebrate our shared history."

Celebrating with a New Look: Residents will notice a special 75th Anniversary edition of the library logo appearing on all official communications and promotional materials throughout 2026.

Commemorative Events: A series of historical displays and community gatherings are planned to celebrate the library’s evolution.

About Brooks Public Library: Brooks Public Library provides access to an exceptional facility and high-quality services and collections to inspire innovation, connection, and life-long learning. As a member of the Shortgrass Library System, the Library is a vital resource for one of Alberta’s most diverse communities and strives to connect our community through knowledge, imagination, and shared experience.

Brooks Public Library
323 First Street East • Brooks Alberta
403-362-2947 • brolib@shortgrass.ca
http://brooks.shortgrass.ca