1904 - Edmonton was incorporated as a city. Population 7,000.
1905 - Alberta became a province of Canada. Edmonton was made the capital.
1907 - The Alberta Provincial Legislature passed the Public Libraries Act under which public libraries could be established and operated.

1909

First Edmonton Public Library Board appointed, consisting of: Mayor Robert Lee, Alderman J.E. Lundy, C. Ross Palmer, K.W. McKenzie, Judge Beck, Prof. Riddell, and L. Madore.

1910

Edmonton Public Library purchased a site on Macdonald Drive, where the AGT Building now stands (100th Avenue and 100th Street).

1912

Strathcona (not yet part of the City of Edmonton) and Edmonton Library Boards met to consider the establishment of two libraries -- one for each side of the river.

Mr. E.L. Hill was appointed librarian for both libraries.

1913

March 13 - Strathcona Library (now Strathcona Branch of EPL) at 8331 - 104th Street, was opened to the public.

March 27 - Edmonton Public Library started operations in its temporary quarters at the corner of Jasper Avenue and 104th Street (over a meat shop and a liquor store) in the Chisholm Block.

Carnegie Corporation offered EPL a building grant of $75,000. Later the grant was increased to $112,500, with the remaining contribution of $37,500 from the City of Edmonton.

1914

Edmonton Public Library moved to Roberts Block, on 102nd Street and 102nd Avenue.

1917

Edmonton Public Library moved to Civic Block on 99th Street and 102nd Avenue.

1922

Local architects H.A. Magoon and G.H. MacDonald were appointed to build the library building on Macdonald Drive.

1923

July - Edmonton Public Library moved to the new building on Macdonald Drive.

Until 1938

Edmonton was served by two libraries. Population in 1938: 60,000.

1938

Edmonton Public Library's first Director, E.L. Hill, retired.

1939

Board appointed Hugh Gourlay as Edmonton Public Library's second Director.

1941

One of North America's most unusual "travelling libraries", a converted streetcar, started serving the Calder area.

1947

A bookmobile was added to serve other areas in Edmonton.

1948

Another bookmobile was added to the fleet.

1953

Sprucewood Branch started operations at 11824 - 85th Street.

1955

The second Director of the Edmonton Public Library, Mr. Hugh Gourlay, retired.

1956

Mr. Morton Coburn became the third Director.

1956

The three vehicles used as "travelling libraries" were retired.

Wells Corporation of Windsor, Ontario, was commissioned to build a better-equipped bookmobile.

Woodcroft Branch started operations at 13420 - 114th Avenue.

1960

Idylwylde Branch started serving the public at 8310 - 88th Avenue, in the Bonnie Doon area.

1960-61

Two more bookmobiles were built by Edmonton Truck Body Ltd. These bookmobiles were open to the public 54 hours, making 28 stops per week.

1961

Jasper Place (then a separate municipality) Branch opened at 9010 - 156th Street.

Plans were made to build a bigger, more modern main library for Edmonton.

1962

Woodcroft Branch added a new wing to existing space.

Highlands Branch started operations in a storefront.

1963

Highlands Branch moved into a cottage at 8606 - 118th Avenue, known as the "Little House Library".

1964

Highlands Branch moved to its present address at 6710 - 118th Avenue, serving northeast Edmonton, Beverly and Highlands areas.

1965

City Council of Edmonton approved a new main library building as one of the City's projects to celebrate Canada's Centennial in 1967.

Work on the Centennial Library began. The $4,500,000 building was to be located in Market Square (now Sir Winston Churchill Square) with six levels above ground and an 800-car parking garage underground.

Rensea, Minsos & Holland were retained as architects, with Richards, Beretti and Jellinek initially as associate architects. Project Manager of the Centennial Library was Hans Weidner of Rensea, Minsos & Holland.

1966

August - Calder Branch was opened to the public. It was housed in a Department of Transport building at 13303 - 127th Street and was intended to be an interim accommodation.

October - Capilano Branch opened. Located at the Capilano Shopping Mall, it was the first Edmonton Public Library branch to be housed in a shopping centre.

1967

May 27 - Dedication of the Centennial Library: Her Royal Highness Princess Alexandra of Kent unveiled the commemorative plaque, assisted by Mayor Vincent Dantzer.

1971

Southgate Branch opened in the Southgate Shopping Mall.

1972

Mr. Morton Coburn resigned as the third Director of the Library.

Mr. Allen W. Rowe, then Executive Assistant to Mayor Ivor Dent, was appointed as Acting Director of the Library.

1973

Mr. Brian Dale was appointed the Library's fourth Director, with Mr. Allen W. Rowe as Administrator.

Shut-In Service was started to provide library services to the elderly, the handicapped, and those whose illnesses confine them to their homes for a period of three months.

Community Programs Division was created to organize programs such as concerts, film series, dance and touring shows, exhibitions, children's and adults' theatre, and public lectures.

Extensive paperback collections were added to the Library's stock.

October - Dickinsfield Branch opened in the Dickinsfield Shopping Mall at 144th Avenue and 92nd Street.

1974

The Library decentralized its Bookmobile Service. Book trailers were ordered from Mond, Ontario. The three trailers and a tractor unit cost $105,000.

1975

February - The first booktrailer arrived in Edmonton.

June - Formal opening of the Library's Booktrailer Service. One trailer was displayed for public inspection in Churchill Square.

1976

Mr. Brian Dale resigned.

1977

Mr. Vincent Richards was appointed as the Library's fifth Director.

Detailed planning for computerizing various library operations began and the first equipment was installed.

1977-1979

The Library administered Northern Alberta Library Development Services and Multilingual Biblioservice Alberta on behalf of Alberta Culture to develop library services and programs in northern Alberta.

1979

March - Edmonton Public Library became the first public library in Canada to use a fully integrated computerized circulation system.

December - Edmonton Public Library began using a computer-produced catalogue in microfilm and microfiche formats.

The circulation of materials in the Audio-Visual Division increased 65% over 1978.

Addition to Jasper Place Branch completed.

1980

The Library enjoys a hefty per capita grant from the Province of Alberta. The Board has earmarked $850,000 to establish two new branches.

Work begins in computerization of the Library's book acquisitions procedures.

Edmonton Public Library publishes a collection of children's writing and art, "75 and Growing", to commemorate Alberta's 75th Anniversary.

October 9 - The Library wishes you a happy "Library Lover's Day".

With increased collections to the audio-visual collection and the addition of a 45 rpm selection, audio-visual circulation increased by 175% over the previous year.

Capilano Branch moved into new quarters in the upper level of the Capilano Mall.

The Edmonton Public Library Board met with its Calgary counterpart and presented a response to the Alberta Library Board's recommendation to the Minister of Culture of the Alberta Government in a paper entitled "A Library System for Alberta".

Completion of job classification for all personnel at the Library.

Completed "The Performance Measurement Indicators Handbook", which was distributed throughout the system as well as to major libraries.

With computerized circulation and catalogue systems in place, Edmonton Public Library experienced a 24% increase in circulation of library materials.

The results of an extensive evaluation of book vendors were published in Quill and Quire, and were well received in the book world.

Shut-In Services volunteers applied for and received a grant through the New Horizons Program of the Department of National Health and Welfare of Canada. This $23,000 grant was used to buy reading aids for seniors such as Talking Books, playback machines, bookrests and magnifying glasses.

1981

EPL received an international award for its "Library Lover's Day" campaign. The John Cotton Dana Library Public Relations Award was accepted by Board Chairman Terry Laing at the American Library Association's conference in San Francisco.

A Simpson Paper Award was received for the Library's publication to celebrate Alberta's 75th Anniversary, entitled "75 and Growing".

The Library added videodiscs to its audio-visual collection, which proved a runaway success.

An electronic security system for books and other materials, Checkpoint III, was installed in all service points, which effectively cut down on theft and unauthorized borrowing.

Castle Downs Branch opened.

Public Relations organized "When You Need To Know", a TV and radio advertising campaign to attract teenagers to the Library.

The Collection Management Fund (CMF) was created to purchase materials and upgrade the collection for the whole library system. 1981 funding was used to upgrade young adult paperbacks and records in order to back up a teen promotion, which resulted in increased juvenile circulation. CMF also upgraded reference materials.

QUE Committee was created to purchase multiple copies of anticipated high demand titles.

Project commenced to improve the signage system of the Library.

1982

Library completed major computer hardware upgrading to handle ever-increasing circulation.

Mill Woods Branch, located at the Mill Woods Recreation Centre, opened.

The Library took over the Toy Lending Service, initiated by the Junior League of Edmonton.

The Library received an award from the Federal Government for its contribution to the development of a New Horizons project for retired persons, involving reading aids for seniors.

An award was made by the American Society for Testing Materials to the Library for continuous membership and support for 25 years.

Circulation was up 23.2% over 1981, crossing the 5 million mark.

Centralized Telephone Renewal Service was introduced.

The CLSI automated circulation system was upgraded to meet increased workloads and was reconfigured to take advantage of multiprocessor architecture, involving three DEC PDP 11/34 computers.

Vendors of books and other library materials were asked to submit revised "Requests for Proposals" detailing their current policies in marking up British and American books, their discount structure and various services, resulting in shifts among various suppliers.

Upgrading of directional and stack signs made libraries more self-guiding.

Library's Community Programs Section initiated a "Children's Entertainment Series", with the intention of providing live entertainment to the family at a reasonable cost.

Library phased out two of the booktrailers and phased in a more cost-effective bookmobile.

A major innovation in Technical Services was the installation of an interface between the cataloguing and circulation databases. The first of its kind in Canada, it transmits new cataloguing data within seconds to the circulation database.

Library acquired a rebuilt Heidelberg GTO to replace an existing, aged duplicator, thus being able to print better quality materials in-house.

Library's Administrative Services began to automate its Purchasing Department to provide computerized inventory control and cost analysis.

A print media campaign, "We're in the Take-Out Business", was staged.

1983

Library celebrated its 70th Anniversary.

Library materials circulation reached 6.6 million, the highest recorded in a Canadian library.

Computerized circulation system was upgraded to handle up to 8 million circulations annually.

Library computerized its acquisitions processes, ordering on-line and carrying out all its formal accounting and reporting by computer.

The "Materials Management Manual", dealing with the selection and acquisitions of books and other materials, was completed.

Southgate Branch, the busiest one in the system, received its long-awaited expansion. An elevator was installed to improve access for the handicapped and mothers with young children in strollers.

All divisions of Technical Services consolidated on the fourth floor of the Centennial Library.

CLSI computer facilities expanded to include a new data processor and a DEC PDP 11/44.

Circulation Division initiated a training program designed to acquaint new staff with basic circulation procedures and give them some familiarity with the computer terminals.

Administrative Services began to computerize its financial services, including its financial information, manpower, and payroll systems.

Personnel Department implemented a videotape and responder training program for circulation desk personnel, to ensure standardization of procedures throughout the system.

Public Relations received an award from the (U.S.) Library Public Relations Council for its "Library Live" promotion, held in 1982, and a similar award for the "Go Hog Wild" Summer Reading Club promotion held in 1982.

1984

Library was, for the second year in a row, the busiest library in Canada, with circulation topping 7.5 million.

A new Alberta Libraries Act took effect on April 1, 1984.

With severe budget cutbacks, the Library's Summer Reading Club, "Leap Into Summer", was sponsored by the Edmonton (Host) Lions Club with a $5,500 grant.

Southgate Branch broke a circulation record with a 1.2 million annual circulation.

Library upgraded its Bach holdings in preparation of the Tri-Bach Festival to be held in Edmonton in 1985.

Library held a successful Book Sale with extensive amount of volunteer labour donated by the staff.

Dickinsfield Branch relocated to the Londonderry Mall and was renamed the Londonderry Branch.

The Library Board undertook a joint project with the Old Strathcona Foundation to refurbish the Strathcona Branch, a historical site and the first library built in Edmonton (in 1913). Strathcona Branch closed for six months.

At the request of the Board, the City's Corporate Studies Office carried out an examination of the Library's Administrative Services. The study showed the Library's Administrative Services ranked in the top half of the groups and organizations surveyed in most measurements.

Summer Reading Club's 1983 promotion, "Extra Terrific - Invade Your Library", received Library Public Relations Council Award for its "innovation and effectiveness".

1985

Strathcona Branch reopening celebrated with hundreds of citizens as well as elected representatives from the Alberta Government and City of Edmonton.

The Board held a series of information meetings and public hearings regarding the level of library service to west Edmonton.

The Library Board recognized the 25th Anniversary of the Edmonton Public Library Staff Association and joined with them in celebrating this event.

Two artists were commissioned to paint a mural decorating the entrance of the Londonderry Branch.

Library celebrated International Youth Year with a juried art exhibition entitled "Youth '85"; as well, the Library organized an Alberta reading tour by young novelist Lee J. Hindle.

The Board changed the Library policy and lowered the delinquency threshold from $10 to $5 (patrons who owe more than $5 would not be able to borrow materials until their fines are paid up).

Another computer hardware upgrading to allow for more efficiency.

For a third year, Edmonton Public Library was the busiest library in Canada with a 7.7 million annual circulation of library materials for home use.

1986

The Board formed a "Library Endowment Fund", a committee to solicit donations from corporate and private sectors.

Twenty-eight staff members were involved with a most comprehensive and ambitious collection upgrading project involving non-fiction gaps in the collection. It is estimated some 15,600 individual titles are to be added to the collection, costing just under $200,000.

Library held a citywide elementary school chess tournament, attended by over 200 children, the highest number ever recorded in western Canada.

An extensive survey was carried out into the photocopying of copyrighted materials in preparation for proposed changes in federal legislation which would affect copyright. The Copy-right Collective was expected to be set up, which would attempt to obtain a fee for each copyrighted item photocopied on library photocopiers.

Supplier of the computerized circulation system, CLSI, sold to a major European company, Thyssen Bornemisza (TBG).

Expansion of the telephone renewal line.

New bylaw passed in April (No. 8-A) governing the safety and use of the Edmonton Public Library addressed a number of issues related to problem patrons and provided some relief to staff members on the front lines.

A public inquiry terminal which accesses the on-line catalogue feature of the CLSI system was placed in the Centennial Library. Called "Quicksearch", it allows patrons to supplement information available in the COM catalogue readers.

Some of the original ADM terminals were replaced by Wyse terminals. Problems with the ADM terminals were not yet resolved by CLSI.

2,341,884 people visited the Centennial Library during the year.

The Audio-Visual Division worked out of the new work area, designed for increased productivity and better workflow.

In January, the Audio-Visual Division began circulating a small collection of 350 VHS videocassettes as a pilot project.

Circulation of magazines increased from 26,594 in 1985 to 31,778 in 1986.

Shut-In Service, with the help of 230 volunteers, serviced 3,800 patrons. Demand for talking books increased, with a registration of 2,000 users and only 4,500 titles.

7,334 children participated in Summer Reading Club, "Trek Through Time", a 52% increase over 1984.

The two-day Book Sale, held on September 26 & 27, raised $13,000.

Staff Training and Development Committee conducted an extensive review of training and development opportunities at EPL, including administering a questionnaire to 340 staff members.

Ann Curry, Supervisor at Southgate Branch, went to Australia for six months as an exchange librarian. Sue Tyquin from Frankston, Australia, worked at Southgate Branch.

Jayne Mortenson, Head of Main Library Services, left the Library in October to take up the position of Director of the County of Strathcona Municipal Library.

EPL received a grant of $5,000 from the Alberta Foundation for the Literary Arts to produce a bibliography of Alberta works in our Western Canadiana collection.

Award winner, Alice Munro, winner of many literary awards, René Levesque, former premier of Quebec, Timothy Findlay, Betty Jane Wylie, and Jill Paton Walsh, author of children's books from the U.K. A total of 16 authors' readings were presented, attended by over 2,000 people

1987

For the fifth straight year, EPL achieved the highest circulation of materials at the lowest cost per item circulated of any public library in Canada. Southgate Branch achieved the status of being the busiest branch library in Canada since 1984, with a circulation of 1,405,066.

Stagnant and declining financial support from civic and provincial governments (the provincial grant was reduced by 3% to $3.92 per capita) made the Board of Trustees turn its attention to vigorously seeking new sources of revenue outside the normal government grants, but met with limited success. A grant was received from the City's Capital Development Program for renovations to the Jasper Place Branch. The ACT Foundation provided funds for Talking Books. The Book Sale raised $15,000.

Planning began for celebrations for the Library's 75th Anniversary in 1988. Committee was chaired by Director Vincent Richards.

Jasper Place Branch closed for renovations in November and was scheduled to re-open in May 1988.

On February 25, a data radio was installed in the bookmobile which linked it to the Library's mainframe computer for easy checkout, for staff to look for information in the catalogue, and fines.

The Western Canadiana collection was further developed and expanded with funding from the Alberta Foundation for the Literary Arts.

A catalogue "quicksearch" terminal was made available at the Londonderry Branch.

An extensive review of A-V services throughout the system was completed in the summer and late in the year which provided information on patrons' views of the shift to recordings on compact discs.

Children's Division Assistant Supervisor, Lynne Bernard, resigned to take up the post of Supervisor of French language services at the Winnipeg Public Library.

Staff Training and Development Committee concluded its staff survey with a series of recommendations, which included staff exchanges between EPL and other institutions. The Committee also worked on policies and procedures on dealing with job related sexual harassment and equalization of workloads among branches.

The ROM microfilm readers on which the UTLAS-produced public catalogue is used are no longer being manufactured.

ADM terminals, used in the CLSI circulation system, were replaced by Wyse terminals, purchased by Edmonton Telephones.

The number of reference questions at Main Information Division rose almost 20,000 to 152,082.

New hardware, funded by Alberta Culture, Library Services, was installed, enabling EPL to access Envoy 100 electronic messaging to reduce costs for interlibrary loan service.

A campaign conducted to solicit specific book donations was successful, adding 800 books to the collection, valued at $12,000. Over 100 copies of 9 out of 10 titles on our "most wanted" list were brought in.

There were 1,167 bookings at Main Library facilities, which were used 71% of the time.

Associated Canadian Travellers (ACT) Edmonton Chapter provided a $10,000 grant to Shut-In Services, in addition to $15,000 from AFLA and a $2,000 donation from a user of the service.

Shut-In Services provided service to 4,000 users with a network of 230 volunteers.

Trends in borrowing indicated that young people in the 80's prefer their fiction in the form of paperbacks instead of hardcover, as circulation in the latter format continued to decline.

Following a patron survey, hours at Sprucewood Branch were changed in January: afternoons/evenings from Monday to Friday and afternoons only on Saturdays, resulting in a 12% increase in circulation.

Staff exchanges included placement of practicum students from the University of Alberta and Grant MacEwan Community College. Pat Babb of the County of Strathcona Library worked at the Capilano Branch for several weeks to learn how automation affects patrons and staff.

The Children's Book Replacement Committee worked to make sure that Edmonton Public Library has a good supply of standard children's books.

Edmonton Public Library received a grant of $7,500 from the Alberta Foundation for the Literary Arts to organize 3,2,1 Write! An Edmonton Young Writers' Conference, which was held in April and was attended by 650 students from grades 4-12.

824 children attended Summer Reading Club, "A Magical Summer".

A total of 24 readings by 14 authors, including Dennis Lee, Monica Hughes, Martyn Godfrey and first novelists Mary Walters Riskin and Marie Moser, were attended by 3,000 people.

"Eat Your Words" recipe contest and a murder/mystery were organized to celebrate the National Book Festival.

"Under the Storytree" was presented by T.A.L.E.S. and the Strathcona Branch during the Edmonton Fringe Festival.

A four-day book sale netted $16,000.

Negotiations continued with Cambridge Shopping Centres regarding the possible move of the Mill Woods Branch from the Mill Woods Recreation Centre to the new Town Centre Shopping Mall.

Technical Services initiated a method of problem solving, "Quality Circle", which invites innovation from the staff level upwards rather than the traditional initiative from management.

Acquisitions used Books in Print Plus, together with an IBM PC, to access English language books in print.

The Board decided to increase daily overdue fines, the first in many years.

The tragedy of the tornado, which hit Edmonton in July, caused some losses to the Library in damaged and missing materials. Overdue fines were waived and lost items written off.

Circulation Division renamed Patron Accounts/Circulation Control.

A review of the job classification scheme for unionized employees was completed. There were no significant changes as a result of the review.

New telephone systems were installed in the branches at sizeable annual savings.

A campaign, "Main Means More", was mounted to promote the Main Library, using interior bus cards and street and bus shelter signs in the downtown area.

1988

Edmonton Public Library's 75th Anniversary was celebrated with many activities. The 1988 Recipe Calendar, launched in late 1987, was a year-long reminder of the significance of the year.

In March (Edmonton Public Library was opened in March, 1913, above a meat market and liquor store on 104th Street), an open house and tea was held at the Main Library to welcome all former trustees and staff to renew old friendships and relive our history. Open houses were held throughout the system.

The Board commissioned the "Magical Mystery Tour" gala event in early May.

The Board's policy on intellectual freedom came into dispute when challenges were made to the selection of "revisionist" materials. Several community groups made formal representations to the Board requesting that exceptions be made to the policy. The Library offered training sessions for staff dealing with the issue, attended by 196 staff members.

The Board initiated and applied for funding from AFLA for a writer-in-residence program, featuring Monica Hughes, as an anniversary project.

Trustee Duncan Campbell presented a report on potential library services for the illiterate.

The Director led the way to preparing an "image bank" which documents Library activities on slides as an anniversary project.

Keith Turnbull joined the Library on January 4 as the new Head of Main Library Services.

A Chinese student, Jane Zhang, studying at the University of Alberta, joined Edmonton Public Library for Canadian work experience.

Mayvis Butt, Supervisor of Branch Services, and Gordon Barkwell, Payroll Officer, retired. Gordon was replaced by Anna Kelly-McGuigan.

Circulation of VHS continued to increase, and film classics and foreign films were added to the collection. Videodiscs are gradually being phased out.

A special anniversary library card was issued to 35,000 people who registered during the anniversary year.

A series of date due slips informed the public of historical and present day facts about the Library. A 20-minute slide tape presentation was produced tracing the history of the Library.

EP Lynx, our mascot, was introduced. EP participated in the Klondike Days Parade.

Shut-In Services provided services to 5,000 patrons through a network of 230 volunteers. Shut-In Services received $25,000 from the Provincial Government to buy Talking Books.

Jasper Place Branch re-opened after extensive renovations. Mill Woods Branch moved in August to its new home in the Mill Woods Town Centre. Circulation increased 35% after the move.

Summer Reading Club, "Around the World in 80 Days", was attended by 7,736 children.

3,2,1 Write! was attended by 735 student participants and 200 parents and teachers in adult sessions.

Harlequin Romance co-sponsored National Book Festival celebrations, contest and talk.

31 readings by 24 authors were held for 2,400 people.

The All-Alberta Writers' Workshop was co-sponsored by Alberta Culture and was attended by over 200 participants from across the western provinces.

The Library organized, with other community groups, the Alberta Book Fair. Held in the Convention Centre in April, it was attended by 5,000 people.

The four-day book sale raised $25,000.

Edmonton Public Library became the first public library to convert its public access catalogue onto compact disc, using the Intelligent Catalog, developed by the Library Corp. Six workstations were purchased.

Demand for "books on cassettes", including new best sellers read by the author, increased.

Heather Stewart, one of the staff members involved with "Quality Circle", received circle leadership training offered by B.C. Telephones.

Purchases of furniture and equipment handled by the Purchasing Division reached $410,000 for the system during the year.

A facsimile machine was installed.

The Edmonton Public Library and the Writers Guild of Alberta were local hosts for a cultural exchange between Canada and the U.S.S.R. A reading entitled "East West Passage" was held for several Soviet poets and novelists.

With funding from the Alberta Foundation for the Literary Arts, the Edmonton Public Library initiated a Writer-in-Residence program in September, 1988 to celebrate its 75th anniversary. The Library's first Writer-in-Residence was Monica Hughes, renowned Edmonton writer for young adults. Her six-month term ended in March, 1989.

1989

Le Mois du Livre et de la Culture Francophone (Francophone month) was held in June, with funding from the Secretary of State, to promote French language materials. The special promotion included showing of French films, puppet shows, and Library tours as well as a lucky draw for a set of French encyclopedia, courtesy of Association Canadienne Francaise de l'Alberta (A.C.F.A.).

The Library, in conjunction with the Federal Business Development Bank, presented "Growing a Business", a series of six talks to inform the public on how to start a small business. Business librarian was available to talk about resources available at the Library. The series was fully attended with over 200 people on the waiting list. A similar series was planned for 1990.

11,051 children attended Summer Reading Club, "The Greatest Show on Earth", from pre-school to senior high. Over 8,000 children returned to the Library at least once and read five books, and more than 50% of the members read over 10 books. These young book lovers helped increase the Library's juvenile circulation by 35% during the summer months.

The Library organized "Astound Us", a writing contest to celebrate the National Book Festival, and featured readings by science fiction writers such as Spider Robinson, Guy Gavriel Kay, Dave Duncan, Charles DeLint and Leslie Gadallah. Over 200 contest entries were received across Canada resulting in international press coverage.

The Library participated in "Context '89", a speculative fiction convention held in Edmonton during the Canada Day weekend.

The Library's writer-in-residence program featuring Martyn Godfrey from June 13 to December 5 was popular. Mr. Godfrey gave 109 manuscript consultations and critiqued 63 manuscripts to help aspiring writers achieve their goals as published writers, resulting in several new writers having their manuscripts scouted for publishers. He also gave readings and writing workshops attended by 506 people.

During the Canadian Library Association Conference held in Edmonton in June, the Library co-hosted, with the National Library, a public reading by W.P. Kinsella, author of Shoeless Joe, upon which the movie "Field of Dreams" starring Kevin Costner was based. A "Showcase" featuring highlights of services at the Library was presented for visiting librarians at the national conference.

Edmonton Public Library experienced a dramatic increase in the number of people using the Library in the past ten years. In 1979, when the first automated circulation system was installed, there were 125,476 patrons registered with 3,139,889 items circulated. In 1989, there were 293,356 registered patrons and a circulation of 7,897,594 items recorded.

The Library upgraded the computer which handles check-out and studied a better-automated catalogue.

While funding continued to remain stagnant and demand continued to increase, stress was beginning to show in our collection management.

A user survey held in May found that even though users found the staff helpful and friendly, and the Library was a pleasant place to visit, 52% of those polled were frustrated with the short supply of library materials. The most pressing demand shown in the study was for more popular books, magazines, newspapers and audio-visual materials.

The Library bought 45,936 hardcover books (a drop of 19,663 from 1988), 65,936 paperbacks (a drop of 6,994), and 14,347 records (a drop of 6,520). However, the Library increased its purchase of compact discs to 3,960 and videocassettes to 5,204. The effects of a smaller materials budget resulted in declining circulation totals for many branches.

Civic Service Union Local 52 donated two decoders for closed-captioned videos for the hearing impaired to the Library's Audio-Visual Division. As well, two keyboard telephones for use by deaf staff were installed in Technical Services and in the Audio-Visual Division for the staff to contact the Library from their homes.

A patron donated $8,000 toward the purchase of a Kurzweil reading machine for the sight-impaired. This new device gives blind citizens greater access to the Library's resources and materials.

The operating budget for the Library was $15 million. $11.5 million came from City taxes (75%), $2.3 million from provincial grants (15%), and $1.2 million from fines, room rentals and donations (10%).

Dr. Fred A. Thorpe, founder of Ulverscroft Large Print Books (U.K.), visited the Library.

Vincent Richards, Director, retired in the summer of 1989 after 12 years of service. The Library Board formed a Search Committee to recruit a new Director.

Sandra Anderson, Head of Technical Services, left Edmonton to take up the position of Chief Librarian of the Saskatoon Public Library. She was replaced by Al Davis, formerly with the Public Library Services of the Manitoba Provincial Government.

Margaret Law, former Director of the Leduc Public Library, replaced Ann Curry as Supervisor of the Southgate Branch. Ann Curry, who was also Past President of the Library Association of Alberta, left to pursue a doctoral degree in library science in England.

Inken Maass, a library science diploma student from Hamburg, Germany, started her internship at the Library in September in preparation for her thesis for graduation.

The Library participated in many community projects. It organized 3,2,1 Write! An Edmonton Young Writers' Conference with other community groups to promote the literary arts and writing skills. The Conference was attended by 735 students from Edmonton and area and over 100 who attended the parents/teachers session.

The Library also participated in the Children's Festival, the Teen Fest, The Works, Jazz City, First Night, and World Food Day. The Foyer Gallery featured exhibitions by local artists.

Shortage of funding hindered improvements to the physical plant, including insufficient shelving for books and A-V materials, shabby carpeting and flooring, and much needed repairs for roofing and lighting in some branches. The Library's building maintenance budget in 1989 was 8% less than five years ago.

The Library's second Writer-in-Residence was Martyn Godfrey, April 1 - September 30, 1989.

1990

Penelope McKee, appointed in June, became Director for Edmonton Public Library. She received her Master's degree in library science from the University of Toronto and was the Chief Executive Officer of the Peterborough Public Library in Ontario before her appointment.

A series of town hall meetings held in June, a needs analysis, user survey and staff survey were conducted in preparation of the strategic plan and mission statement. As a result, a draft statement of purpose was formulated:

"The purpose of the Edmonton Public Library is to help the people of Edmonton meet the challenges of the future by providing the widest access to the collective knowledge and culture of the world. The Edmonton Public Library will achieve this by collecting and organizing resources, by cooperating with other institutions and community groups, and through the aggressive use of technology."

The Literacy and English as a Second Language (ESL) collections were upgraded with the assistance of the National Literacy Partnership, established between the governments of Alberta and Canada.

The Celebrity Book Auction, organized in conjunction with PROSPECTS Adult Literacy Program, raised over $60,000 for both organizations. Mr. and Mrs. Sandy Mactaggart were patrons for this event; the Edmonton Journal was the media sponsor; Alberta Energy Company Ltd., Imperial Oil Ltd. and Esso Resources, and Labatt's Alberta Brewery were major corporate sponsors.

The annual book sale moved to Northland's Golden Garter and raised $24,000 to support literacy projects. Other fundraisers included sale of "famous authors' autographs" canvas bags and Strathcona Library writing cards.

The Library started a pilot project, The Excellent Adventure Book Club, a summer remedial reading program to help reluctant readers improve their reading skills. Held at the Capilano and Londonderry branches, the program matched 60 reluctant readers with adult volunteers to help change their attitudes about reading and improve their skills.

The Edmonton Public Library was the local organizer of the Literacy Volunteer Awards. Eighteen individuals as well as six organizations were presented with the award.

The Library Board decided at its last meeting in 1990 to discontinue the bookmobile and telephone renewal services in the new year as it was unsuccessful in persuading the City to increase its funding by 7% in 1991.

Between 1981 and 1989, municipal funding has been reduced by 13.3% when adjusted for inflation, while provincial funding has declined by 27.3%. During the same period, use of the Library increased by 81%. This has resulted in continuing erosion of services and less money being available to maintain the collection of books and other materials at an acceptable level.

To stop further erosion of funding the Library took action: firstly, incorporate a society for a Friends of the Library, secondly, to set up a development office to raise funds from other sources.

Frank Belden was appointed Director of Development in October.

Shut-In Services serves over 5,000 patrons with a networking of 200 volunteers. There are 8,000 titles in the Talking Book collection.

11,087 children attended Summer Reading Club, "Open Sesame". This program was sponsored by McDonald's Restaurants of Canada Ltd., with a donation of $2,500.

3,2,1 Write! was attended by 835 students.

The Can Kids Series and the Young Alberta Book Festival brought Canadian and Alberta writers to young audiences throughout the system.

The writer-in-residence program was offered from September to December, featuring Candas Jane Dorsey. A forum and presentation by "The Flying Words", from New York, was organized in conjunction with this program to discuss cultural literacy for people with sensory disabilities.

The 100th birthday of Dame Agatha Christie was celebrated with a month-long festival in September of films, contests, displays, booklists, "tea and murder" talks, and a presentation by Christie expert Anne Hart from Newfoundland.

The theme for the National Book Festival was "Operation: Under Covers", highlighted with a contest of "spy" language and a reading by William Deverell from B.C.

A presentation of cowboy poetry was organized to coincide with the Canadian Rodeo Finals in November.

Southgate Branch started a pilot project of a Teens' Advisory Board (STAB) to let teens know that their suggestions are taken seriously.

Joanne Griener and Heide Blackmore, branch librarians, presented a workshop to inform staff of resource materials for children preparing for science fairs.

The upgrade of the CLSI circulation system from the PDP to Sequent host computer was completed. We moved from LIBS100 Release 27.45 to 27.5.

Moira Walker (Highlands Branch) was seconded during the summer to prepare a Request for Proposal for an expanded or new integrated automation system to replace the current COM catalogue with an on-line public access catalogue. An Automation Task Force comprising representatives from service points, Technical Services, Purchasing, and the City's Computing Resources Department jointly developed a set of functional and contractual requirements for the Request. In December, the document was made available to 28 potential bidders.

Olivia McGarry (Supervisor, Patron Accounts/Circulation Control), replaced Mary Melenka as Supervisor of the Acquisitions Division. Mary retired in July.

We bought 55,782 hardcover books, 67,202 paperbacks, 3,150 records, 19,428 audiocassettes, 4,359 videocassettes, 7,665 compact discs, and 28 16mm films.

We circulated 7.7 million items for home use.

There were 296,034 registered card holders at the Edmonton Public Library (almost 50% of Edmontonians) and 29,634 were new patrons.

We answered 1,027,296 questions, about two questions every minute of the year.

At the Southgate Branch a book was checked out every 8 seconds and a question was asked every 1 1/2 minutes.

Attendance at the Edmonton Public Library was 3,130,214 in 1990, outdrawing the popular Edmonton Oilers by a ratio of five to one.

1991

A total of 3.1 million visits were made to the Library's 13 branches, making the Library the second most sought-after attraction in the City (after the West Edmonton Mall), and leaving the popular Edmonton Oilers a distant third.

Edmontonians paid $13.6 million in taxes to support library services in 1991 -- at a cost of $22.07 per year or 42 cents per week for every man, woman and child -- less than the price of a daily newspaper.

Friends of the Edmonton Public Library was formed in January, with Jeffrey Moore, a law student, elected Chairman.

The Board created a Development Office to study the feasibility of fund-raising in the community and provide the Board with strategies on fund-raising matters.

"The Reading Edge", the Edmonton Public Library's Charity Auction held on September 12, raised $58,643 to enrich services and collections for children in the areas of science and technology, literacy, and special needs for the physically challenged.

A paperback book sale was organized at the popular Fringe Festival, with proceeds for the enhancement of the performing arts collection.

Summer Reading Club '91: Go Ape Over Reading!, sponsored by the Zonta Club of Edmonton, was attended by 10,861 children.

The Excellent Adventure Book Club, with the assistance of 183 volunteer tutors, helped 197 elementary students improve their reading appreciation and skills.

Renovations in the Main Library provided better work flow and access to the public, particularly for the physically challenged.

Bookmobile and telephone renewal services were cancelled due to budget restraints.

Data Research Associates were selected to upgrade and provide state-of-the-art check-out and on-line catalogue to provide better access for customers.

The Library purchased 55,285 hardcovers, 67,679 paperbacks, 25,973 audiocassettes, 5,684 videocassettes, and 11,802 compact discs.

1992

150 computerized public access catalogue terminals were installed to give customers information on the collection of 1.4 million items.

Calder Library moved into larger quarters and was 30% busier than it was a year ago.

The Summer Reading Club celebrated Edmonton's 100th birthday with 10,000 children who "Read All About It!".

The Library helped organize the Read-In campaign to promote literacy and the value of reading.

Book buying met the year's $2.1 million budget.

More new books were bought with $130,000 raised from a charity auction, two book sales, bequests, donations, sponsorships and other fund-raising events.

The Friends Society had a membership of 120 and was active in the civic election to make the Library more visible.

The Library started "Open Door", a training program enabling staff to give better service to customers from diverse cultures and backgrounds.

In addition to library programs, Centennial Library's facilities were used by 71 multicultural, business and art groups, associations and festivals for 187 events showcasing Edmonton's informational or recreational needs.

1993

The Library's five-year Development Strategy was approved by the Board of Trustees and City Council. The Strategy called for new and improved services for customers, such as:

- more books for the collections
- telephone renewals
- after-hour drop-off boxes
- Sunday openings at some branches
- a new branch in the west end
- new technologies to improve efficiency and savings

In order to pay for these services, the Library will charge adult users an annual borrower's fee of $12. Children and people with limited incomes do not have to pay.

The Library was one of the busiest libraries in Canada and one of the top two attractions in the City, with close to 3.6 million visits to the Library's 13 branches.

There were 259,350 registered customers who borrowed materials 7.8 million times, used the materials in the libraries 2.4 million times, asked 1.2 million questions and attended programs 127,849 times.

12,509 children attended Summer Reading Club, "Dynamic Dinosaurs Dig Books", setting the highest attendance record ever. Circulation of children's materials was 513,576 during July and August, up 31.7% compared to the previous six months.

The Library presented programs such as the Future Scientists' Club, the Curious Kids Club, the Spy School, and Science-in-a-Crate programs to promote interest and knowledge in science to children.

With the help of 108 volunteer tutors, the Excellent Adventure Book Club was held at the Centennial, Mill Woods and Sprucewood libraries to give 112 children special attention in reading so that the children may improve their reading appreciation and skills.

Library Access Division coordinated 164 volunteers to bring materials to 3,000 people in their homes or institutions because they could not use regular library materials or facilities.

1994

The Library re-introduced a $12 adult membership fee, with household discounts. Children under 18 did not have to pay. Adults with limited income could have their fee waived.

Revenue generated from the fee was put in a reserve fund for new technologies, convenient services, and the development of a new library.

Search and self-placed request services on computer were introduced.

Automated Telephone Renewal and Inquiries services were introduced.

After-hour returns were installed at all locations.

Sunday opening was started in four large branches from September to May, with Centennial Library continuing to open on Sundays year-round.

The Library was a founding member of the Edmonton FreeNet, a computer-based community information service which began operations in November.

The Library provided information gateway for individuals and businesses by expanding its CD-ROM collections and on-line services.

The Library introduced search service by FAX.

The Children's Library was moved to the main floor of the Centennial Library.

The Library bought 183,042 books, cassettes, videos, CDs and had 3,400 magazine subscriptions.

3.3 million visits were made to 13 locations and 7.2 million books and other items were checked out.

Staff answered 1,024,374 questions.

The Library presented 3,703 programs which were attended by 131,505 children and adults.

10,075 children attended Summer Reading Club 94 titled "Go Overboard".

3,816 grade four students toured libraries in the first annual Card for Every Kid campaign and 2,003 registered as new members.

Friends of the Library remained active, held authors' readings, organized fund-raising activities and advocated for library support in the community.

1995

Magazines On-Line was introduced, allowing customers to search from 1,100 magazines (600 full-text) either from the Library's terminal or customers' own computer.

Edmonton FreeNet terminals were installed at all locations.

CD-ROM products were expanded in the main library and introduced in Jasper Place, Londonderry, Mill Woods, and Southgate branches.

343,650 remote dial-in searches were made by customers accessing the Library over the Internet.

3.8 million searches were done in the libraries.

The City of Edmonton Book Prize, jointly organized by the Library and the Writers Guild of Alberta and sponsored by Audreys Books, was inaugurated.

37 municipalities participated in reciprocal membership agreements with Edmonton's Library and 777 new reciprocal borrowers were registered.

A membership campaign promoted the Library to young people through advertising, outreach, displays and special events, including the Big Book outdoor concert, Cues Challenge, a billiard competition, culminating with the Tuxes, Tiles and Tales gala at the Westin Hotel in January, 1996. These efforts generated $100,000 worth of media sponsorships, donations in kind and publicity.

A major marketing survey conducted by Population Research showed that 50% of Edmontonians used the Library on a regular basis.

The Card for every Kid campaign was launched, introducing grade four students from 120 schools to their local branch. 2,530 children registered as members for the first time.

Plans were made to organize a capital campaign, Foundations of Learning, to raise funds for the Library Development Plan, including developing three new libraries in Edmonton.

1996

The Board launched a capital fundraising campaign in May to raise funds for three new libraries --- one each in the west end, Abbottsfield, and in Riverbend in the southwest. The goal of the campaign, the first for the Library, is $4 million. The honorary campaign chair was Stanley A. Milner and the campaign chair was trustee Dennis Denis.

A 10-week public campaign, "Help Us Branch Out" was organized in September to give the public an opportunity to donate to the capital campaign. The honorary patron was Mrs. Sandy A. Mactaggart and sponsors included the Edmonton Examiner, the Edmonton Journal, and WestJet Airlines. As a result, approximately $133,000 was raised.

Gifts received from the capital campaign, including cash, pledges, and donations in kind totalled just over $1 million. This included a gift of leasehold improvements worth $450,000 from Mr. Wayne Ling of the Lessard Mall.

On October 30, the first of the three new branches was opened in the Lessard Shopping Mall in the west end, the first new branch in 14 years. The new library provides full library service to a population of 50,000 in a fast growing neighbourhood.

The Friends of the Edmonton Public Library donated $12,000 to the Library's capital campaign.

The Library hosted a public ceremony on August 22 to name the downtown library after Stanley A. Milner who, during his term as chair of the library board (1963-68), spearheaded the construction of the main library as Edmonton's project to celebrate Canada's centennial in 1967. Former Premier of Alberta, the Hon. Peter Lougheed, the Hon. Shirley McClellan, Minister of Alberta Community Development, Deputy Mayor Jim Taylor, and MP Judy Bethel spoke at the ceremonies.

Mayor Bill Smith was among 800 people who attended the Library's membership drive event, Tuxes, Tiles and Tales, held at The Westin on January 27. Sponsors were CBC radio, the Edmonton Sun, the Edmonton Oilers, Hook Outdoor Advertising, ITV, and Vue Weekly.

Public opinion surveys were conducted and public meetings held in October and November to receive public input before the Board made a decision on the Woodcroft Library --- to rebuild on its current site, to relocate to the Edmonton Space and Science Centre, or to relocate in the Westmount Shopping Centre. The Board subsequently decided in early 1997 to rebuild on the current site.

The Library introduced Gateway, which allowed customers to check details on their own accounts, including items borrowed, fines outstanding, and requests made. Customers can also renew materials on-line or cancel unwanted requests.

Reciprocal borrowing arrangements with more than 20 surrounding communities helped the Library increase its membership to 1,023 during 1996.

On average 14,000 visits per month were made to the Library's new web site (www.epl.org), launched in April.

409,300 remote dial-in searches were made by library members accessing the Library over the Internet.

5.5 million electronic searches were done on terminals in the libraries.

Close to 4 million visits were made to the Library's 14 locations.

7.6 million items were borrowed.

The Library developed a new marketing plan to guide it in putting its 'best face forward' through the on-going design, offering and evaluation of collections, services, and programs to meet the library and information needs of customers.

1997

Linda C. Cook joined the Edmonton Public Library as Director of Libraries.

The capital fundraising campaign, Foundations of Learning, which started in 1996, was successful in raising $1.1 million or 70 percent from the community.

The official opening of a new branch, the Penny McKee Branch - Abbottsfield was held on September 15. The branch was named after Ms. Penny McKee as a tribute to the former library director who worked with the Board to spearhead library development in Edmonton and Alberta. Ms. McKee died of cancer in May, 1997, after she retired as director in December, 1996.

The old Woodcroft branch building was demolished during the summer to make room for a new 10,000 square-foot building, on one level.

Gentra Western Retail Investments Inc., owners of the Londonderry Mall provided renovations and expansion for the Londonderry Branch at no cost to the Library. This added 5,000 square feet to the branch with a former size of 10,000 square feet.

The new website (www.epl.ca) linked users directly to the Library's automated system, providing better coordination and management of business functions such as circulation, renewal, and holds.

6.1 million electronic searches were done on terminals in the libraries.

Highlands Branch held its first block party, Taking It to the Streets, on June 7. Over 700 area residents, including local MLA and MP attended.

Castle Downs and Londonderry branches welcomed their Canadian Armed Forces neighbours to the City by participating in the Garrison's Rec Expo in September.

The Library's first participation in the Edmonton Woman's Show attracted over 3,000 visitors to its booth at the two-day event.

4,944 students from 131 schools visited their local branch during the 96/97 school year in the Card for Every Kid campaign, designed to encourage all grade four students in the city to register as members. 2,363 students got their library cards for the first time.

Promotional partnership with the Edmonton Art Gallery, allowed the $2 Art Gallery Access to be sold at the Library, adding value to library membership and increasing public access to the Art Gallery.

The Stanley A. Milner Library downtown is an anchor member of the Edmonton Arts District.

Tatung Society of Alberta donated 8,000 items in the Chinese language in December. A dedication ceremony was held, attended by many leaders in the Chinese community.

Assistance was received from media and business sponsors for a 6-week mass media campaign, Rediscover the Library, held in September and October. The campaign, part of the marketing plan, was designed to promote adult library memberships to people aged 25 to 54 with children in households. 6,000 entries were received in a lucky draw sponsored by CompuSmart, held in conjunction with the campaign.

The Library started to revitalize its visual identity system, as part of its marketing plan, by updating its logo and changing its sign system.

The Library celebrated the first annual Alberta Library in May by publishing its first "Read" poster featuring Mayor Bill Smith reading to children at the Strathcona Branch.

1998

The Library launched the third and final phase of the Foundations of Learning campaign, with the objective of raising $550,000 from the community for a branch in Riverbend. By year-end the campaign had raised $470,000 in donations and pledges for the Riverbend Branch. Over 2,500 people attended a community and media event, "Goin' Round the Bend in Riverbend" on Halloween weekend, including the Hon. Dave Hancock, MLA, Edmonton Whitemud and Minister of Intergovernmental and Aboriginal Affairs, Mayor Bill Smith, Councillors Bryan Anderson, Larry Langley, Brian Mason, and Dave Thiele. The Hongkong Bank of Canada was a major event sponsor, among others.

Friends of the Library and community supporters organized advocacy Activities, attended candidates' forums in the October civic election, and gave presentations in budget forums. This had a positive impact, as the City approved $1.8 million in capital funding for the proposed branch in Riverbend.

The City approved a capital project to waterproof the 31-year-old Stanley A. Milner Library, with an addition of 11,000 square feet in the North Plaza. At a media announcement, Mayor Bill Smith recognized the Library as essential to the City's vision of a Smart City and praised the Milner Library as the "most visited civic building in Alberta's Capital City and an anchor member of the City's Arts District."

A renovations project, due for completion in 1999, will provide customers with better access to collections and services and streamline workflow for staff.

Friends of the Library launched a campaign to raise $50,000 in support of the Milner Library's Heritage Room, which will house the Canadiana Collection.

The Library received grants totalling $135,000 from the City's Accessibility Committee to install an elevator and two ramps in the basement as part of the Milner Library renovations, giving customers better wheelchair accessibility.

A marketing survey conducted for the Library in 1998 by the Population Research Laboratory of the University of Alberta found that 96% of the respondents considered the Library to be an essential city service and 60% of Edmonton's households used the Library on a regular basis.

4,033,742 visits were made to the Library's 15 locations.

7,505,374 items were borrowed.

82,773 new books and 24,659 AV materials were added to the collections, including 5,933 donated items.

133,915 visits were made to the Library's web site.

131,009 people attended 4,002 public programs at all 15 library locations, ranging from Time for Twos and Pre-School Storytime to collecting Titanic memorabilia, Feng Shui, and how to set up a personal directive.

Through its participation in the Alberta Public Libraries Electronic Network (APLEN) consortium, the Library received a grant from the Province of Alberta's APLEN project and the Federal Government's Western Economic Partnership Agreement, to implement its Technology Action Plan. This allowed the Library to create its own web site and also to make its public access catalogue and web site available over the Internet and to all public libraries in Alberta.

As a pilot project, the Alberta Library BookCard was offered free of charge to Library adult members in August, allowing them to borrow books from the University of Alberta Libraries.

Information Services participated in organizing Small Business Week (October 25 - 31) in conjunction with The Business Link, Economic Development Edmonton, the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce and others.

ATEC, Alberta's service excellence training experts donated a collection of videos as part of the Milner Library's special loan collection of business titles. The ATEC collection covers more than 175 subjects, ranging from careers in tourism, customer service, food and beverage services, to management and professional development.

Starbucks Coffee Company hosted the "All Books for Children Book Drive" in August to benefit local libraries and promote literacy. Supporters donated over 300 books to the Library in the two-week campaign.

The Carnival of Champions Foundation, set up by the Edmonton Oilers of the NHL and the Edmonton Eskimos of the CFL, donated $20,000 to enrich the children's collections in the Penny McKee Branch - Abbottsfield.

Highlands, Jasper Place, and Sprucewood branches participated in the Books for Babies program, organized in conjunction with the Junior League of Edmonton, Prospects Literacy Association, and other sponsors. This is a family literacy program that provided books and materials to young families and worked toward developing library use skills and improving literacy skills in the home.

The Library worked with the City's Asset Management and Public Works to open the Non-Profit Centre on the 6th floor of the Milner Library. The Centre was created to assist arts and non-profit groups that were having difficulty finding affordable and convenient office space.

Canada Post worked with the Library to kick off its popular annual Santa Letter Writing Program on November 20. Over 100 children gathered at the Stanley A. Milner Library to mail their letters to the North Pole and were greeted there by Santa's elves, Letterman, Albert A. Bear, and Mrs. Claus.

The Library raised $22,000 from the Fringe Paperback Book Sale in August and the Annual Book Sale held in October, with the help of 166 volunteers.

In January, the Library launched an express, in-depth business information service, catered to customers' needs and provided on a cost-recovery basis. At year-end, 65 research projects were conducted for 38 customers, ranging from some of Alberta's largest corporations to individuals who are just starting their own businesses. About half of the requests came from repeat customers.

Staff promoted Library information services at trade shows, after-business mixers, and other community events.

The Library provided Web stations for all 15 locations. These PCs gave customers access to the Internet, various electronic databases, and the capability to check the on-line catalogue and their own accounts.

Summer Reading Club '98 - Take Me Out to the Library - was attended by 11,292 children who collectively read over 3.4 million minutes during the summer.

The Library's Learning and Development Team focussed on providing on-going learning opportunities for staff to assist them in providing excellent, knowledgeable service to customers.

Library staff participated in 40 internal course offerings ranging from customer service, multicultural awareness, to the application of various electronic technologies. As well 70 employees benefited from external training opportunities.

Over 300 people attended the Woodcroft Branch re-opening on June 30. Guest speakers included the Hon. Anne McLellan, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and MP for Edmonton West, Mayor Bill Smith, MLA Mary O'Neill, representing the Hon. Shirley McClellan, Minister of Community Development, Nancy MacBeth, Leader of the Alberta Liberal Party, and Don Carmichael, Library Board Chair.

The Library co-hosted an event to pay tribute to W.O. Mitchell (1914-1998), well-known author and teacher, who passed away on February 25 at the age of 83.

The Library organized the Best Book of the 20th Century contest, inviting the public to nominate their choices. J.R.R. Tolkein's Lord of the Rings was declared the winner, beating over 200 other nominations.

The Library co-hosted an exhibition, "Book Design in Switzerland" in conjunction with Pro Helvetia, the Swiss Arts Council, the Edmonton Art Gallery, the Graphic Designers of Canada (Alberta Chapter - North), the Book Publishers of Alberta, the Bank J. Vontobel-Vancouver, the Edmonton Swiss Society, the Hon. Consul of Switzerland, and Walter Jungkind, Professor Emeritus of the University of Alberta.

Strathcona branch celebrated 85 years of service in the heart of Old Strathcona.

Idylwylde branch celebrated its first customers' appreciation day, "Idylwylde About You", on Valentine's Day, with visiting Elvis, entertainment, and refreshments.

First Nations Artist, Calvin Morin, held an art exhibition, "Smoking Tales of the Past" in the Penny McKee branch in Abbottsfield.

The Library presented an advertising campaign, "Rediscover the Library" to promote benefits of library membership with tools such as billboards, newspaper, posters, and direct mail.

Staff ambassadors promoted the Library to over 100,000 people at trade shows and community events, including the Edmonton Woman's Show, InfoCity Festival, the Greater Edmonton Teachers' Convention, the Seniors Fair, Klondike Days' Kids on the Street, the Alberta Book Fair, Welcome Wagon Baby Shower, and Meet the North Exposition.

The Library continued revitalizing its visual identity system and completed signage upgrades in six branches - Jasper Place, Mill Woods, Lessard, Woodcroft, Penny McKee, and Londonderry.

The revitalized logo was painted on the Library's trucks, which delivered materials among the 15 locations twice daily, six days a week, giving the Library the best possible "mobile advertising".

1999

The Library updated its mission statement: "Edmonton Public Library connects the people of Edmonton to the knowledge and cultures of the world", and produced the Strategic Directions report, which gave the Library a road map to take advantage of new technologies in providing excellent customer service, while remaining flexible and capable of change. The Library's new mission statement poster is displayed in public areas of all 15 library locations.

The Library received tremendous support from the community and met the fundraising target to build a new branch in Riverbend. A sod turning ceremony was held on August 26th in Riverbend Square and was attended by the Hon. Dave Hancock, Minister of Justice and Attorney General and MLA for Edmonton Whitemud, Councillors Bryan Anderson, Larry Langley, Brian Mason, Jim Taylor, and other dignitaries. The new branch will open in spring, 2000.

Under the guidance of the City's Asset Management and Public Works, the Library started a capital improvement project to waterproof the 32-year-old Stanley A. Milner Library, with an addition of 11,000 square feet in the North Plaza. The expansion and renovations will provide customers with better access to collections and services and streamline workflow for staff.

The revamped and expanded Children's Library is scheduled to open in spring, 2000.

Interior renovations for Information Services and building of the Heritage Room to house the Library's Canadiana Collection, will start in spring, 2000.

The addition of an elevator and ramps in the basement and main floor will give better wheelchair and stroller accessibility to customers.

Four public library boards in the Metro Edmonton area -- Edmonton, Fort Saskatchewan, St. Albert, and Strathcona County (Sherwood Park), initiated a pilot, funded by Alberta Community Development and managed by the Edmonton Public Library, to provide daily delivery of materials in the Metro area. Reciprocal cardholders enjoy the convenience of borrowing and returning materials from any of these libraries.

Edmonton FreeNet, in cooperation with the Library, rolled out graphic access stations at all library locations in August, providing customers with capabilities of e-mail, chat rooms, Internet browsing, and creation of web pages.

The Library worked with partners, including Athabasca University, City of Edmonton, Edmonton Public and Catholic Schools, Edmonton Community Adult Learning association, Grant MacEwan College, NorQuest College, and University of Alberta, to present "Read On Edmonton", a week-long campaign (October 3rd to 8th) to promote the value of reading and learning.

The Library was a sponsoring partner of the Small Business Week in Edmonton (October 24th - 30th), with Western Diversification Canada, Alberta Economic Development, the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce, the Business Link, the Business Development Bank of Canada, Alberta Venture, ADTEL, a telecommunications company, and BDO Dunwoody LLP, a management/accounting firm.

On November 30th, the Milner Library's Boardroom was the site for a videoconference on e-commerce involving six other sites: Washington, DC, Cornwall, North Bay, Kitchener, Oakville, and Windsor. Facilitated by Alberta Community Development, the conference covered topics such as impact on municipal services, community, payment, legal and privacy issues, providing invaluable insight to the Library for introduction of new electronic services.

325,721 visits were made to the Library's web site in 1999, an increase of close to 60 per cent compared to 1998.

The number of computers available for public use increased to 73, in part through funding and support from the federal government's Community Access Program, the Alberta Public Library Electronic Network, and Edmonton FreeNet. These partnerships allowed the Library to make open Internet access available at all 15 locations. Guidelines for acceptable use of the Internet in the library were developed and provided to users.

The Library started a pilot project to provide E-Reference (reference by e-mail), available to customers 24 hours a day. The Library' service is one of only 14 sites in the world being listed in Yahoo's "reference by e-mail" category. This service is available to customers in 2000 at the Library's website, www.epl.ca

Summer Reading Club '99, Discover the World at Your Library, was attended by 11,319 children, who collectively read over 3.5 million minutes (close to 60,000 hours) during the summer.

4,503 grade four students participated in 155 tours conducted by all 15 library locations in the Card for Every Kid campaign, resulting in 2,157 children signing up as library members for the first time. Close to 1,600 students had return visits to the Library during the 1998/99 school year.

13,646 Edmonton students from grades four to twelve, representing 24 per cent of the total participants in two Canadian provinces and five American states - Alberta, British Columbia, Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington - participated in the Pacific Northwest Library Association's Young Reader's Choice Award program. The students read and voted for their favourite books in this program that promoted life-long reading for enjoyment.

3,982,636 visits were made to the Library's 15 locations.

7,449,403 items were borrowed.

926,493 questions were answered.

131,743 people attended 3,814 public programs at all 15 library locations.

133,031 new books and 18,360 AV materials were added to the collections, including 6,291 donated items.

Smart Search, an in-depth business information service, won the Creative Public Library Service Award, presented at the Alberta Library Conference. The award citation noted the Library service's contribution in "helping to make Edmonton a Smart City".

Library trustee Dennis Denis, chair of the capital fundraising campaign, "Foundations of Learning", was presented with the Outstanding Trustee Award by the Alberta Library Trustees. The campaign successfully raised $1.6 million from the community to build three new libraries -- Lessard (1996), Penny McKee - Abbottsfield (1997) and Riverbend (2000).

The Library design team received the Mayor's Award for Accessible Architecture for the Lessard Branch.

Lachlan Bickley, Manager of Electronic Technology Development and Services, was one of 10 Canadians selected to attend an international Duke of Edinburgh Award conference in Ireland. The meeting enabled young people around the world to exchange ideas, share experiences, and participate in training to prepare them for leadership in the next century.

Learning and development of staff is a major component in the Library's Strategic Directions Report, providing staff with necessary skills to offer excellent customer service. Close to 40 internal courses ranging from new applications in electronic technology, to communications and team building were offered. There were 136 staff members who participated in external seminars.

A new workshop on proactive management skills was offered to management staff, based on the Library's corporate values and management style statements.

Friends of the Edmonton Public Library presented a cheque for $50,000 to help with the building fund for the Heritage Room, designed to house the Canadiana collections in the Stanley A. Milner Library.

The Chinese Freemasons, Edmonton Chapter, co-hosted a special event in a Chinese restaurant featuring a "karaoke" fundraiser and presented a cheque for $5,672.96 to the Library to help build the Riverbend branch.

The Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, Free Masons, Valley of Edmonton Chapter, presented a cheque for $7,000 to the Library's Penny McKee branch in Abbottsfield to enrich its children's collections.

The Library received a total of $325,000 from the Alberta Government's Community Facility Enhancement Program for assistance in building the Riverbend Branch and renovating the Stanley A. Milner Library.

$250,000 was granted by the Edmonton Community Lottery Board for renovations of the Milner Library.

With the help of 250 volunteers, the Library raised $35,000 from the Fringe Paperback Booksale in August and the Annual Booksale in October.

Over 500 children in Riverbend participated in read-a-thons, distributed fundraising brochures, organized bottle drives, bake sales, penny carnivals and other events to raise funds for their branch. The Library raised $14,700 from the read-a-thons.

Woodcroft branch was the featured location for ITV's First News live broadcast on March 1st, with the Library given an opportunity to promote its collections, services, programs, and fundraising campaign to thousands of viewers.

University of Alberta Libraries and the Edmonton Public Library held a joint media event to launch The Alberta Library Card, giving members access to each other's book collections as well as access to 8 million items in collections of over 200 libraries across Alberta. Response from the public was overwhelming, resulting in over 540 TAL card applications processed within the first week of the launch.

The Library organized multimedia advertising campaigns to promote the benefits of library membership, titled "Join the Library and Invest in Your Mind" in the Edmonton Journal, Edmonton Sun, Edmonton Examiner, Alberta Parent, Commerce News, A Channel, CFRN-TV, ITV, as well as various community, arts, and tradeshow publications.

A joint promotion was organized in May and June to coincide with the spring advertising campaign. Library members benefited from discounts offered by the co-sponsors, Shaw Cable and the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT).

On October 1st, the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FOIP) came into effect for all public libraries in Alberta. The Edmonton Public Library meets all the requirements of FOIP and has informed its customers of its application through printed literature, forms, and customer service staff.

2000

Riverbend branch opened on May 18 with Scottish pipes and Chinese lion dances. Over 200 people in the community attended the ceremonies.

Capilano branch was renovated and expanded, gaining 2,000 square feet of space and a comfortable reading area with a fireplace.

The Children's Library in the Stanley A. Milner Library re-opened on June 17, after re-location and renovations, in time for the launch of the Summer Reading Program.

Calder branch held an open house on June 26, after renovations and expansion, adding 1,200 square feet or 50 per cent more public space.

Idylwylde branch received a $10,000 accessibility grant from the city and installed automatic doors to facilitate access for seniors and people in wheel chairs.

Interior renovations on the second floor of the Stanley A. Milner Library were completed at year end, adding a new Heritage Room, a Smart Search office, the Investor Education Centre, a revamped reference desk and Internet centre to facilitate service delivery. Renovations provided convenient access to business, consumer, and government information collections and opened up back issues of periodicals to enhance customer service.

An additional 16 public web stations were installed, bringing the total number to 91.

200 pieces of computer station furniture were added and services to support them put in place, readying for major implementation of electronic access in 2001.

To help teachers and students use library resources to their best advantage, EPL developed an online Assignment Alert service, accessible from the Library's web site and at service points. This service won a Smart City award in early 2001.

EPL was one of the beta test sites for Canadian Encyclopedia Online, developed by Netcentric in Edmonton. Customers were invited to test the product for stability and usability before the product was released.

Harry Potter Week during spring break was attended by hundreds of delighted children and parents.

Capilano branch offered a venue for children's birthday parties and helped parents plan an unusual and enriching event for their children.

With a grant from the Alberta Securities Commission and the Alberta Capital Market Foundation to the Investor Learning Centre of Canada, preparation was made to host Canada's first investor education centre in a public library, to open in early 2001 at the Stanley A. Milner Library. This will be a prototype for other libraries, providing essential information, telephone and on-line links to the Investor Learning Centre.

A major computer network upgrade was completed, dramatically speeding up response time between branches and the Milner Library.

"Remotely Yours" campaign was launched to promote 21 licensed on-line products now available remotely from home, school, and office.

Enhanced customer service available from the web included on-line "consider for purchase", interlibrary loan for books, articles, and micro-formats, and place-a-hold on books on order.

New features on the web included Infofile, Song Index, Pathfinders, and direct links to web sites selected by staff.

Booklists published by EPL have dynamic links to the Library's on-line catalogue.

Library program listings on the web can be searched by location, date, and title.

CKUA Radio Network established a "buy or borrow" link to the EPL web site.

Interactive web pages developed specifically for the Summer Reading Program were used 10,000 times during the program.

EPL coordinated a province-wide Summer Reading Program, "Mission 2000: Bugs in Space", with participation by over 150 public libraries in Alberta. In Edmonton, 13,527 children collectively read 4,023,180 minutes (67,053 hours) during the summer.

With cooperation from area schools, EPL's Card for Every Kid campaign reached 5,135 grade four students who visited their neighbourhood library and 2,447 students took out library cards as a result of this campaign.

EPL staff took part in organizing the Canadian Library Association conference in Edmonton (June 21 - 25) that was attended by 1,200 delegates from across Canada, US and the UK.

Stanley A. Milner and Woodcroft libraries were the venues for a province-wide multi-media awareness campaign, "Libraries: Your Complete Information Solution" coordinated by The Alberta Library and presented in November 2000 to February 2001, with advertising in dailies and weeklies, billboards and selected television programs.

EPL continued to work with Fort Saskatchewan, St. Albert, and County of Strathcona libraries to offer daily delivery of library materials among metro area libraries for better customer service.

Reciprocal membership is offered to members of many libraries in Alberta, helping reciprocal members save money and providing them with borrowing privileges for books and audio visual materials as well as enhanced Internet services offered by EPL.

EPL cooperated with the Congress of Black Women of Canada (Edmonton Chapter) to present Black Book Odyssey 2000 on February 11, to celebrate Black History Month.

EPL hosted a panel discussion and sponsored an art exhibit titled "Grimoires" at Audreys Books, in conjunction with other groups, to celebrate Freedom to Read Week in Edmonton (February 27 - March 4).

On April 11, EPL presented a well-attended seminar, "Investigate Before You Invest", in conjunction with the Investor Learning Centre and Alberta Securities Commission, to celebrate Investor Education Week (April 10 - 14).

Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and Microsoft Canada donated $1.8 million to help libraries in Alberta expand public access to the Internet. EPL received 54 computers and related peripherals under this program.

EPL received a grant from the federal government's Urban Community Access Program to provide the public with convenient and affordable access to the Internet.

Calder and Castle Downs branches presented "Computer Basics" workshops throughout the year with the help of Edmonton Community Network.

The City's Green Shack program received 500 books on loan from Penny McKee - Abbottsfield, Highlands and other north side branches for use in programs on 16 playgrounds in the city's north end during the summer.

Edmonton Transit provided free shuttle service between the Book Sale held in the Library Parkade downtown and The Word is Out Book Fair, held in the Arts Barns in Old Strathcona.

Read In 2000 (October 1 - 7), to promote literacy, was organized by the Library, educational and business partners, including Shaw Communications, Concerned Children's Advertisers, and Media Awareness Network.

Working with Catholic Social Services of Edmonton, Milner and Mill Woods libraries hosted English conversation classes for immigrants and new Canadians.

The Stanley A. Milner Library was the host venue to launch the video and magazine produced by the Canadian Armed Forces (Western Region), "Train for War, Strive for Peace" on October 12.

4,123,705 visits were made to the Library's 16 locations.

750,128 visits were made to the EPL web site.

7,243,960 items were borrowed.

1,515,474 questions were answered.

142,287 people attended 4,141 public programs.

561,602 searches and 202,490 requests were made on the Library's on-line catalogue.

91,768 adult and children books, 87,575 paperbacks, 32,947 AV materials, 38,443 periodicals, and 3,644 government documents were added to the collections.

3,148 volunteer hours were donated to provide library access service to customers who were unable to use the Library's traditional services and materials, with 76 new customers signing up for homebound service, doubling last year's enrolment.

4,900 job applications were processed and 1,039 training sessions provided for staff, ranging from customer service, reference work, and communications, peaking with 200 employees taking electronic technology training in the latter quarter of the year.

Bookstock 2000 was launched in May to solicit cash donations to buy books, paperbacks, and videos for local branch collections.

With the help of over 100 fundraising volunteers, the Library's Fringe Paperback Sale (August) and the Fall Book Sale (September) raised $50,000. Edmonton Journal and CBC Radio were media sponsors.

The first ever Carnival Ex Libris, an annual fundraising gala, attended by over 200 participants, was held on November 4 at the Westin Hotel with the help of 50 fundraising volunteers. Sponsors included Chieftain International, Inc., CKUA Network, Edmonton Journal, Global TV, and Wild Cards Advertising.

The Library received support from the Edmonton Community Lottery Board to help renovate the Milner Library and enhance its audiovisual collections.

Alberta Community Facility Enhancement Program supported the Library to build the Riverbend branch and help renovate the Milner Library.

Alberta Public Library Electronic Network (APLEN) provided grants to upgrade and add new computers and provide training for staff to enhance customer access to electronic services.

A multi-media advertising campaign with the theme "Knowledge Comes in Many Flavours" was presented during the year, with advertisements in dailies, weeklies, posters and on television.

EPL participated in 20 major outreach events such as the Greater Edmonton Teachers Convention, Home and Garden Show, Edmonton Woman's Show, Technology for Success Trade Show, Seniors Fair, Literacy Promotions, reinforcing the theme of the advertising campaign and promoting the Library to more than 100,000 people.

2001

The Library celebrated completion of Stanley A. Milner Library second floor renovations on January 11 with a media event and an open house for the public.

The new Heritage Room, located on the second floor of the Stanley A. Milner Library, houses a special, non-circulating collection of 10,000 titles, with a focus on the history and development of Edmonton, along with northern Alberta and western Canada. The Friends of the Library provided funding.

The Investor Education Centre, a joint project with the Investor Learning Centre of Canada (ILC), is the first to be located in a public library in Canada. Located on the second floor of the Milner Library, it offers free services, including phone and email access to the ILC's resource centre, Internet and subscription services, investor software, reference support from library staff, and easy-to-read information brochures on investing.

Usability was the driving factor behind the redesign of the Library web site www.epl.ca, launched October 15, during Alberta Library Week. Feedback from users is overwhelmingly positive. The Library's web site has more than 1.5 million visits during the year, with more than 340,082 items renewed, 456,801 items requested, and 2,068,335 searches done.

The Library entered into an agreement with The Second Cup to operate a café in the downtown Stanley A. Milner Library. The partnership with the company complements the Edmonton Arts District and affirms the commitment of both parties to work toward downtown revitalization.

Stanley A. Milner, who contributed $300,000 for the Children's Library renovations, was the guest of honour at the official opening ceremonies of the Children's Library on May 3. A public open house was held in the afternoon.

The online Assignment Alert service, designed to help teachers and students use library resources to their best advantage, won the Smart City educational partnership award.

The Children's Library hosted programs to profile Edmonton writers, storytellers, and artists during the World Championships in Athletics in August.

The Edmonton Historical Board presented the Library with a plaque on October 30 acknowledging its work in maintaining its Strathcona Branch Library as one of Edmonton's important historical buildings.

The City of Edmonton Archives and the Library jointly presented an exhibition of photographs in the Milner Library Gallery on Edmonton's sporting heritage to coincide with the World Championships.

The Card for Every Kid program has been offered to Grade 4 students and teachers for the past seven years to introduce the Library to students as the place to come for free information and recreation. When lack of transportation was identified as the main cause for some schools not participating in the program, Edmonton Transit came to the rescue by offering free access to regularly scheduled ETS service between participating schools and library branches.

The Library, a partner in the READ IN campaign (October 1 - 6) to promote literacy, presented two art exhibitions and talks by book illustrators to highlight this year's theme, "Picture the Word". The theme focused on how art enhances the understanding and appreciation of the printed text. Many celebrities read to students and adults. Thousands of Edmontonians participated in READ IN events throughout the city.

The Stanley A. Milner Library, an anchor member of the Edmonton Arts District, co-sponsored 47 programs to promote culture and the arts as well as to inform the public on current issues. Events included the Comedy Arts Festival, Black History Month Multicultural Extravaganza, Tellebration with The Alberta League Encouraging Storytelling (TALES), Rubber Soul Beatles Tribute, Feats Dance Festival, The Works, Global Vision Film Festival, Labour History in Edmonton, and Family Violence.

The annual volunteer appreciations held for Library Access Service and special event fund raising volunteers were combined in 2001. The event was organized in an extended partnership with both the Edmonton Art Gallery and City Hall in recognition of the work done by volunteers of the partners during the International Year of the Volunteer in 2001.

Working with the federal government's Community Access Program (CAP), the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and Microsoft Canada, the Library provided better computer access to users and the community at large. By the end of 2001 additional computers, printers, and related peripherals were installed in service areas. This represents a 466 per cent increase in the number of public Internet stations, bringing the total to 350, up from 73 two years ago.

The Stanley A. Milner Library was the venue host for Global Television's morning news on May 1. Highlighted library coverage included the new Heritage Room, Investor Education Centre, Children's Library, Smart Search, reference services, and electronic services.

The Library distributed information materials to all EPL locations on behalf of 81 community groups, three-quarters of which made requests more than once during the year.

A highlight of the Carnival Ex Libris, a fund raising gala event held on November 3, was the presentation of a cheque for $500,000 by Stanley A. Milner in support of renovations to the main floor of the downtown library. Mr. Milner had offered to match fundraising for the project by up to $500,000, and this was accomplished by the end of October, 2001.

The Clifford E. Lee Foundation donated $300,000 to support re-development of the Library Access Service and its move to the main floor of the Stanley A. Milner Library.

Bookstock 2001, a two-month campaign (February 1 to March 31), inviting people to make cash donations to buy new books, paperbacks, and videos, raised more than $40,000. Media sponsors were A-Channel and the Edmonton Examiner.

In 2001 the Fringe Paperback Sale increased sales by 27 per cent over the previous year. In the fall, book sales were held over two consecutive September weekends in the Library Parkade, with the assistance of the City's Asset Management and Public Works, and with CBC Radio 740 and the Edmonton Journal as media sponsors. The success of these book sales, which together raised $54,000, was the result of the hard work of the Library's dedicated special event fund raising volunteers.

More than 1,000 children and adults met Arthur, the aardvark character created by Marc Brown, at a special presentation of KSPS Public Television previews on September 12 in the Stanley A. Milner Library.

Fun with Franklin, featuring programs for children during spring break, was a huge success, attracting more than 2,100 children to various branches.

The Summer Reading Program, Tales Through Time, was attended by 11,857 children who collectively read 3.3 million minutes during the summer. Library staff visited 169 schools to promote the joy and benefits of reading.

The production of Conan and the Librarians, presented on the loading ramp at the back of the Strathcona branch during the Fringe Festival in August, was enjoyed by over 630 people in 10 performances and awarded a five-star rating by some!

The Library participated in The Young Readers' Choice Awards program, giving talks on books to Grades 4 to 12 students and inviting students to vote for their favourite book. Close to 17,000 students participated in Edmonton.

The Young Alberta Book Society and the Library presented Chrysalis 2001:WordPlay in Edmonton, featuring readings in October by authors for children such as Monica Hughes, Mar'ce Merrell, Lyle Weis, Barbara Hartmann, Jacqueline Guest, Gail de Vos, Tolowa Mollel, Marilynn Reynolds, Georgia Graham, and David Poulsen.

The Library presented readings by Vivien Bowers, Shelley Tanaka, Richard Scrimger, Barbara Smith, and Gary Geddes with support from the Canada Council for the Arts.

The two art galleries in the Stanley A. Milner Library hosted 16 art exhibitions by emerging artists.

The Library co-sponsored storytelling concerts on Valentine's Day and for Tellabration in the fall with The Alberta League Encouraging Storytelling (T.A.L.E.S.)

The Library co-sponsored, with book publishers and retailers, readings by authors: Pierre Berton (Marching As To War), Dennis Lee (The Cat and The Wizard), George Szanto (The Condesa of M), Roch Carrier, National Librarian of Canada, (Our Life with The Rocket) and Paul Hellyer, former deputy prime minister of Canada (Goodbye Canada).

Castle Downs branch was closed July 26 due to severe leaks and water damage, in preparation for relocation to the adjacent Castle Downs Professional Building at Lakeside Landing. Interior renovations will be completed in 2002, giving the branch 10,000 square feet or 30 per cent more space.

An open house and public information meeting was held on November 20 to provide information on reasons to relocate the Southgate branch and discuss the Library's plan for a new, expanded and enhanced facility in Whitemud Crossing Shopping Centre.

A major marketing survey, conducted between November 28 and December 14, asked how Edmontonians used public library services. The results of the survey will be used for planning and advocacy over the next three years.

Fifty internal and 30 external training and development courses were offered to staff, covering a broad range of topics, including reader's advisory, programming, communications, injury prevention, interest-based problem solving, managing difficult situations, media awareness, reference services, computer technology, and other specialized areas.

The Library participated in 15 major outreach and special events, including Greater Edmonton Teachers Convention, Home and Garden Show, Technology for Success, Edmonton Woman's Show, Symphony Under the Sky, International Literacy Day, reaching an estimated audience of more than 121,800.

The Library published three issues of a 56-page magazine, The Source, with program listings and features on library news, services, and recommended reading, viewing, and listening. It is distributed through library locations, schools, recreational, cultural, educational facilities, more than 600 community outlets, and outreach events.

2002

Castle Downs branch celebrated its re-opening at the Lakeside Landing location on July 10. Dignitaries at the official ceremonies included the Hon. Lois Hole, Lieutenant Governor of Alberta, the Hon. Anne McLellan, Canada's Minister of Health, Thomas Lukaszuk, MLA for Castle Downs, Councillors Ron Hayter and Allan Bolstad.

Will Shakespeare made a special appearance at the official opening of the new Whitemud Crossing branch on September 16, to celebrate the branch as a "haven for readers and learners". Other dignitaries included the Hon. Lois Hole, Ian McClelland, MLA for Edmonton Rutherford, Councillor Bryan Anderson, Ralph Friederichsen, President and Bob Tuli, Vice President of Ironwood Management Ltd.

Featured in the KinderZone during Klondike Days (July 18 - 27), the Library partnered with Northlands Park to create an interactive play area filled with toys, books, story performances and frequent visits from Dewey, the Library's mascot. Hundreds of families enjoyed the program.

Working with the City Archives, the Library unveiled "Pictures of Our Past" on the Library's Web site during Historic Edmonton Week in August, showing photographs and historical information on buildings, councillors, and mayors, as well as sports history in Edmonton.

"Edmonton: A City Called Home" is a multimedia project that engages Edmontonians in the preparation of a new, comprehensive historical resource about the city's history and culture. Comprising two books, a collection of first person narratives and a book for children, and creation of a Web site, this is the City's education project to celebrate its centennial in 2004.

On October 21, the province-wide 5th Annual Alberta Library Week promotion was launched in the 35-year-old Capilano branch, the first library in Edmonton to be located in a shopping mall. The Hon. Gene Zwozdesky, Minister of Alberta Community Development, Rahim Jaffer, Edmonton Strathcona MP, and Councillor Terry Cavanagh brought greetings. Hundreds of Edmontonians attended the open houses held in all 16 locations throughout the city.

Smart Search, the Library's specialized fee-based research service, co-hosted the Edmonton Small Business Week Launch with the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce on October 21 at the Stanley A. Milner Library. The Hon. Mark Norris, Minister of Economic Development was the keynote speaker. The launch and the After Business Mixer that followed were attended by 500 business people.

"Read Up On It: The Magic of Books", an annual program to promote Canadian children's literature, was launched in the Library, the first time the launch was held outside Ottawa. Joining Dr. Roch Carrier, National Librarian of Canada and renowned author, were Senator Tommy Banks, authors Kady MacDonald Denton, Laurent Chabin and Katherine Holubitsky. Les Bucherons provided lively entertainment.

Canada Book Day was celebrated on April 23 with presentations from Gary McPherson (With Every Breath I Take), Monica Hughes (award-winning Edmonton author of more than 30 novels and recipient of the Order of Canada Award), Todd Babiak (Choke Hold), and Joyce Harries (Girdles and Other Harnesses I Have Known).

The Library hosted a presentation of "Edmonton: In Our Own Voices" during READ IN Week (October 1 - 7) to give Edmontonians a glimpse of the "Edmonton: A City Called Home" project, featuring introductions by editor and researcher Linda Goyette and tales about Edmonton from storytellers, including renowned author and historian Tony Cashman.

Edmontonians loved the convenience of using the Library's Web catalogue via the Internet and did so 44,000 times per week from their computers at home, at school, in the office and at computers inside the Library's 16 locations. The increase was 633 per cent, compared to two years ago.

A one-stop movie super page was created on the Library's Web site that was a portal to all the other great movie sites on the Internet. Visitors will find up-to-date information about movies and discussions on 90 pages of links to 1,800 sites deemed the best on the Web.

The Library offered 46 licensed databases on the Web site, 27 of which can be accessed remotely from computers at home.

Supporters can make donations online directly from the Library's Web via the Canadahelps.org site, a non-profit organization that provides free online donation services to Canadian charities.

Staff learning and development is enhanced through placement of the Learning and Development menu on the Staff Web and development of an online registration system.

Sprucewood branch was presented with a Golden Eddy Award on November 27 from Community Action Project (CAP) for "its excellent and important contribution to the families in our community". More than 200 people attended a support rally, including Councillors Michael Phair and Janice Melynchuk, students, teachers and principals of neighbourhood schools, library customers, trustees, and staff.

Patricia Nelson, Manager of the Idylwylde branch, was the recipient of the Edmonton Community Network's first Penny McKee Award, in recognition of her volunteer work to provide training and support to increase Internet access in the community.

Linda C. Cook, Director of Libraries, is the recipient of the 2002 Distinguished Alumni Award from the University of Alberta Library and Information Studies Alumni Association, to recognize her leadership and commitment to her profession and her contribution to the library community at the local, provincial, and national level.

The Stanley A. Milner Library hosted a reading and reception on December 8 to congratulate Edmonton writer, Gloria Sawai, for winning the prestigious Governor General's Award for her collection of short stories titled A Song for Nettie Johnson. She returned the honour by thanking the downtown library staff for welcoming her frequent visits and providing her space to write her award-winning stories in the library.

Authors who gave readings at the Library's various branches included David Bergen (The Case of Lena S.), Karen Dudley (Macaws of Death), Ian Waddell (A Thirst to Die For), Pierre Berton (Cats I Have Known and Loved), Robert Bateman (Birds), Terry Brooks (Shannara epic), Charlie Russell (Grizzly Heart: Living Without Fear Among the Brown Bears of Kamchatka).

Summer Reading Program, "Sailing the Seven Seas", was attended by about 12,500 children. Edmonton Trappers Baseball Club players lent their support by visiting 12 library branches during the summer to promote reading to children.

Veteran Summer Reading Program members, 8-year-old Jordan Chow and 12-year-old Diana Hill, posed for the Library's promotional READ poster and the cover of the Library's magazine The Source. The poster was framed and presented to dignitaries at the official opening of the Castle Downs branch.

Dewey's Angels: Librarians in Leather (staff from seven branches) gave performances on the loading ramp at the back of the Strathcona branch during the Fringe Festival in August. The sagas of pirates and princesses, tales of dragons and knights, and antics of felines in stilettos (Puss in Boots) were enjoyed by more than 500 people and covered in the news media.

Library staff visited 205 schools and talked to 26,206 students about the Young Readers' Choice Awards, encouraging students to vote for their favourite books. Close to 13,000 students participated in Edmonton.

The Card for Every Kid program has been offered to Grade 4 students and teachers for the past eight years, introducing the Library to students as the place to visit for information and recreation. More than 3,000 students from 98 schools took 127 tours of their neighbourhood libraries and 1,730 students received their own library cards for the first time during the 2001/2002 school year.

On December 21, Baturyn School became the first school in Edmonton to have a library card for every student in the school, from their neighbourhood Castle Downs branch.

More than 800 children attended author readings. Canada Council for the Arts sponsored readings by Linda Bailey and Frieda Wishinsky. The Young Alberta Book Society's Chrysalis readings featured Joan Hinz, Loma Bennett, Nadine Mackenzie, Cora Taylor, Don Trembath, Carolyn Fisher, Marilynn Reynolds, Gwen Molnar, Shirlee Matheson, and Merle Harris. Ken Oppel gave a reading, courtesy of HarperCollins.

The Library received strong support from City Council, groups, and individuals through hundreds of letters, phone calls, and email messages to support library funding. Council agreed with citizens' concerns and returned $224,000 in the Library's operating budget for 2003 and provided an additional $200,000 for more books and other materials.

The Bookstock campaign (February 1 to March 31) launch, held in the Londonderry Mall, in front of the branch, was attended by the Hon. Lois Hole, Councillor Michael Phair, Mark Siderson, Vice President of Albert's Family Restaurants, as well as Paul Mennier and Jennifer Martin of A-Channel, sponsors of the campaign. The Library raised about $25,000 to enhance local library collections throughout the city.

Ironwood Management Ltd., landlord of the Whitemud Crossing branch, provided $1 million worth of turnkey operations, City Council provided $1.25 million for refurbishment and relocation of the branch from Southgate Centre, and Alberta Government's Community Facility Enhancement Program provided $125,000 for the opening of the Whitemud Crossing branch.

"Edmonton: A City Called Home" project received generous support from the City of Edmonton, the Office of the Mayor, the Edmonton 2004 Education Committee, the Government of Alberta, the Clifford E. Lee Foundation, and the Friends of the Edmonton Public Library.

The Ismaili Muslim Community in Edmonton, marked Alberta Library Week by making a donation of books and a cheque for $10,000 to support the final phase of the renovations of the Stanley A. Milner Library. The renovations project, already in progress, is planned for completion in early 2003.

Three book sales, spring, Fringe and fall, were supported by 241 fundraising volunteers who donated 1,752 hours and raised close to $67,000. Members of the public donated unwanted books from their private collections in addition to the books weeded from library collections. Revenue from book sales increased 92 per cent from 1999. An additional $23,000 was raised from on-going book sales held in the branches.

The Library was one of the organizers and beneficiary of Edmonton's first "Raise a Reader" campaign to raise awareness about children's literacy. On October 3, a special edition of the Edmonton Journal was printed, with the newspaper donating all money raised from single copy sales to community literacy projects, including the Library.

The Stanley A. Milner Library co-sponsored 300 programs with arts and community groups, attended by 23,797 people. These public programs included Global Visions Film Festival, the Comedy Arts Festival, Understanding Severe and Persistent Mental Illness, National Housing Day of Action and Eldercare in Alberta.

The two art galleries in the Stanley A. Milner Library featured 18 exhibitions by emerging artists.

The Library participated in 23 tradeshows and events, including Edmonton Teachers' Convention, Home and Garden Show, Technology for Success, International Literacy Week, and Teen Pregnancy Fair, promoting the Library to an estimated audience of 130,000.

Towards continued collaboration, representatives of the Library Board and Civic Service Union 52, signed a Working Relationship Agreement, committing to conduct business in accordance with established corporate values.

2003

90th Anniversary Celebrations

EPL celebrated its 90th anniversary with a kick-off celebration at Strathcona Branch on March 13. Staff from the Library and Fort Edmonton Park dressed in period costumes.

A “90 Books for 90 Years” contest was held asking Edmontonians to nominate their favourite adult and children’s books. Prizes were donated by Chapters/Indigo and Volume II Books.

Branches held 90th-anniversary celebrations during Alberta Library Week (Oct 20-24). A grand celebration took place at the Stanley A. Milner Library on Oct. 20. Ten past Library Board chairs and several hundred guests attended the Milner event. A commemorative poster was given out to EPL users to mark the occasion.


Promoting Literacy

Whitemud Crossing branch hosted an event called Canada Reads Edmonton Authors partnership with CBC Radio on April 30. Featured authors included Tolowa Mollel, Gloria Sawai and Katherine Holubitsky. The program was pre-recorded and broadcast on CBC on May 19.

The first online Winter Reading Club for children was launched. Over 4,000 children participated. Over 14,000 children participated in the Summer Reading Club/

A Banned Book Café was held in Second Cup at the Stanley A. Milner Library on February 24 inviting readers to recite banned books in celebration of Freedom to Read Week.


Services

A new computer system, SIRSI Unicorn, was launched on April 22. The new automated system was integrated into all aspects of library operations, including circulation, customer registration and cataloguing.

Online access to the Library’s catalogue was made available 24 hours a day. Thousands of customers signed up to receive e-mail notification of holds.

Circulation of materials increased to 8.1 million and visits to the Library increased to almost 8 million. Almost 140,000 Edmontonians attended 3,962 programs.


Fund Development

The Lois Hole Legacy Program was launched on March 4 and raised $116,000 during the year. In addition, the Honourable Lois Hole donated a portrait painted by artist Izabella Orzelski-Konikowski to the Library. The portrait is on permanent display in the Stanley A. Milner Library.

Book sales raised $81,500 through the efforts of over 200 volunteers.

2004

City of Edmonton’s 100th Anniversary

EPL celebrated the City of Edmonton’s 100th anniversary by developing two books in partnership with the City and the University of Alberta. Edmonton: A City Called Home and Kidmonton: Stories from River City Kids became Edmonton bestsellers during 2004. Both books were written by Edmonton author Linda Goyette, with research provided by Carolina Jakeway Roemmich. A complementary website was also developed.

Honouring Excellence

City Council approved the Library Board’s request to name a new west end branch after Alberta’s 15th lieutenant governor, the Honourable Lois E. Hole. Construction of the stand-alone facility will replace the Lessard Branch and is anticipated to be completed in 2006.

Linda C. Cook, Director of Libraries, received the 2005 Outstanding Public Library Service Award at the Canadian Library Association conference in June.


Promoting Literacy

The Library received a 2004 Parents’ Choice award from Edmonton Child magazine for the best preschool programs. Close to 21,500 babies to preschoolers attended over 1,100 programs.

Library staff visited 54,000 students in 378 classrooms to promote literacy and the importance of reading.

Basic computer courses on the Internet, e-mail and searching the Library’s catalogue were offered to more than 300 people.

A task force was created o explore Library services to Aboriginal peoples. Library staff and members of the Aboriginal community worked together on the creation of a report to the Library Board.

The Big Chill, an adult online winter bookclub, was launched, attracting over 4,000 book lovers.


Services

The third and final phase to renovate and expand the Stanley A. Milner Library was completed. Funding for the project included $4.8 million from the City and more than $3 million raised by the Library from grants and other sources.

Sprucewood Branch celebrated an open house on September 13 to commemorate the successful completion of the first renovation and expansion at the branch in 46 years.

An Investor Education Centre within Information Services at the Stanley A. Milner Library was created to provide online databases and resources for investors.

The Bestsellers to Go initiative was launched to enable customers to borrow current bestsellers for one week, without waiting in the request queue.

More than 8.5 million visits were made to the Library. Almost 8.4 million items were borrowed and almost 140,000 people attended 4,000 programs.

2005

Promoting Literacy

Readers and walkers joined forces to promote READ IN 2005. Londonderry Branch in partnership with Londonderry Mall’s Walk 'n Roll Walking Club presented Walk into History on October 5, featuring award-winning author Linda Goyette.

EPL participated in the 16th Dreamcatcher Aboriginal Career Fair to showcase the Library’s enhanced Aboriginal collection as well as to promote EPL as an employment opportunity.

The Library celebrated “Year of the Teen” and allocated $100,000 to expand teen collections. All branches set up designated teen areas.

“Libraries Are in Style” event for teens was held at WEM showcasing teen performers and library displays.

“Teen Gamers Palace,” an after-hours evening event for teens was held at Sprucewood and Highlands branches. The initiative was co-sponsored with Child Friendly Edmonton. Over 175 teens attended.

A partnership between EPL and Edmonton Public Schools was initiated with a focus on increasing literacy among students. Forty-five schools participated in a pilot library-card program resulting in over 1,500 new library cards issues to students.


Services

Free word processing was introduced as a pilot project in four branches.

Bestsellers to Go for kids and teens was launched in March.

Castle Downs Branch added 2,700 square feet to accommodate an increased demand for service.

Riverbend Branch hours were extended by more than three-and-a-half hours per week.

A floating video collection, Naxos, a web-based music library and Press Display, an online same-day newspaper were introduced. Twenty-three new databases were added to the collection.

An official celebration of the completion of the Stanley A. Milner Library renovation was held on January 20.

Strathcona Branch moved to temporary quarters in preparation for a major expansion and restoration.

More than 20,000 children participated in the Summer Reading Club. Staff visited 197 schools and talked to more than 25,000 students about the Young Readers Choice Awards.

The Read 'n Ride program in partnership with Edmonton Transit System was launched during Canadian Library Week (October 17-23). Library and Transit staff gave away thousands of free books to transit riders at various transit centres throughout the week.

Almost 10 million visits were made to the Library and more than 9 million items were borrowed. Over 150,000 people attend 4,400 programs.

2006

Corporate Initiatives

The Board of Trustees officially adopted a five-year strategy document (2006-2010), titled Enriching People’s Lives. The document was developed based on input from internal and external stakeholders through focus groups, surveys, demographic profiles, lifestyle trends and interviews.

The culinary arts and literary themes came together in a delightful way at the unique Books2Eat gals on May 6 to raise funds for the Strathcona Branch restoration and expansion. Local chefs created imaginative cakes based on or inspired by books. About 250 guests were invited to bid on the marvelous creations and dozens of other silent auction items.

In September the Library began radio-frequency identification tagging of materials. When complete, RFID will allow customers to check out their own library materials faster and easier than before. It is anticipated that the full system will be in place by the fall of 2007.

The Library won second prize for its entry in the 16th Annual Chili Cook Off, organized by the Downtown Business Association to kick off Canadian Final Rodeo Week in November.


Facilities

Construction of the new Lois Hole Library began in July. When complete, this facility will replace the Lessard Branch, and will serve more than 72,000 people by 2010. The Library is named after the Late, The Honourable Lois Hole, 15th Lieutenant Governor of Alberta.

In July, the community participated in the Strathcona BiblioTrek, an event designed to help move the collection from the temporary location back to the permanent one. Several hundred people participated in the morning event by walking a book or magazine back to the newly restored facility.

October 3 saw the Strathcona Branch officially reopen amid much fanfare after its major restoration and expansion. The branch almost doubled its space and is now wheelchair and stroller-accessible.


Literacy

Almost 12,000 children participated in the 2006 TD Summer Reading Club and about 4,700 children participated in the online Winter Reading Club.

More than 7,300 adults participated in the Big Chill, the adult online reading club.


Partnerships

In May, EPL signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Edmonton Public Schools, formalizing their partnership to promote lliteracy, reading and life-long learning. During a pilot project to put more library cards into the hands of students, more than 1,500 new cards were issued.

Linda C. Cook, Director of Libraries, was honoured by her profession by being chosen as the president of the Canadian Library Association, for the period of June 2006-June 2007.

EPL and Edmonton Transit System partnered for a year-long adult literacy initiative called “Get Caught Reading.” The “Reading Reconnaissance Team” looked for adults reading on the bus or LRT and rewarded them with prizes. A website was also set up to support the initiative.


Services

The Teen Gamers Palace was hosted for the second time. With funding from Child Friendly Edmonton, the Library held these evening events at five selected branches. This year the initiative saw about 160 teens participate.

Word processing became available in all 16 locations.

Flicks and Tunes To Go was introduced as an extension to the popular book service, Bestsellers To Go. Customers can choose from a selection of the latest DVDs and CDs without waiting in the request queue and may borrow items for one week.

EPL added 13 new databases to its collection of virtual services. Included in this list were Price It Antiques and Collectibles, Birds of America Online, eAudiobook NetLibrary, Dragon Source, a database of over 100 Chinese-language magazines and Rosetta Stone, an English as a Second Language database.