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Beyond Books: Libraries offers diverse resources for rural communities

From ancestry research to board games, the Parkland Regional Library System caters to the community's evolving needs
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Have books to return? Drop them off in the book drop outside the library or return them to a smiling face at the front desk, like in this photo from the Rocky Mountain House Public Library. Photo courtesy of Parkland Regional Library System.

Libraries have long been synonymous with books, but for the Parkland Regional Library System (PRLS), serving 64 rural communities in central Alberta through 49 autonomous member libraries means offering much more. 

“We provide access to a wide range of resources that go beyond traditional books,” says Paige Mueller, marketing specialist for PRLS. “It’s all about meeting the diverse needs of our communities.”

Established in 1959, PRLS was Alberta’s first regional library system. Now, over 65 years later, it continues to support more than 250,000 residents across 64 municipalities. Its mission? To provide resources and services that member libraries could not offer on their own, making library services both accessible and cost-effective for rural areas.

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Library staff at Olds Municipal Library are always ready to help you find just what you need and provide service with a smile. Photo courtesy of Parkland Regional Library System.

Beyond books

The PRLS extends beyond the idea of a library as just a space for physical books. It offers access to many digital and physical items. From language lessons via Pronunciator to genealogy research with Ancestry Library Edition, library members can explore any topic at the click of a button.

“We have so many e-resources,” Mueller adds. “Whether it's accessing the Calgary Herald archive for local history, or using PressReader to download international newspapers and magazines, we make sure our communities can tap into a broader world of information.”

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Story time is a popular program at libraries across Central Alberta. Staff at the Sylvan Lake Municipal Library are always enthusiastic storytellers. Photo courtesy of Parkland Regional Library System.

Part of PRLS’s strength is its ability to adapt to the specific needs of rural communities. “Libraries in smaller towns are often hubs of the community,” Mueller says. “They offer a safe place where people can connect, learn and find resources to enhance their day-to-day lives.”

From job-hunting workshops to programs that help seniors stay connected through technology, PRLS supports a wide range of community needs. The system also plays an active role in promoting information literacy, which Mueller says is critical in today’s digital world. “We help people navigate the flood of information out there, providing tools to discern good information and improve literacy skills,” she adds.

For those looking for practical tools, the library also offers services like Cypress Resume, a platform that helps users create professional resumes and cover letters. “It’s an invaluable resource, especially in rural areas where access to career support services might be limited,” Mueller adds.

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A staff member at the Rimbey Community Library helps a patron check out a book to take home. Photo courtesy of Parkland Regional Library System.

A library of things

Beyond digital offerings, PRLS libraries are becoming hubs for borrowing non-traditional items like board games, video games and even camping equipment. “We call it a ‘library of things,’” Mueller says. “We’ve got funky baking kits, camping gear – practical stuff people might need but don’t want to invest in. All you need is a library card.”

Welcoming, inclusive spaces

Another key focus for PRLS is ensuring  its libraries remain welcoming and inclusive spaces. “These days, free public spaces are hard to find, and libraries offer that,” Mueller says. “You don’t need to buy anything, and no one is asking anything of you. You can simply exist in the space, use the free Wi-Fi, or take part in community programs.”

PRLS also provides essential technology services, such as access to computers, printers and the internet through its member libraries. 

Through digital literacy training, offering a space for social gatherings or providing innovative resources, PRLS helps create strong, connected communities. For more information, visit prl.ab.ca/elibrary.

“Libraries are so important to the fabric of these communities,” Mueller says. “We want to make sure everyone knows the incredible resources available right in their own library.”