Benefits of library membership go far beyond books

By Lethbridge Herald on September 6, 2025.

One of the "libraries within the library" at the Lethbridge Public Library (LPL) is the Toy Library where parents can borrow a variety of toys, like this triceratops hand puppet held by Children's Services library technician Laurie Darveau.

Joe Manio
Lethbridge Herald
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Public libraries are invaluable community resources, serving as democratic spaces that offer free access to information, education, and social support, yet many take them for granted as mere book repositories rather than essential hubs for literacy, economic development, and cultural inclusion.

“The library is a place to discover, create and connect with others, and I want the community to know everyone is welcome here,” says Lethbridge Public Library (LPL) CEO Terra Plato. “Membership provides access to thousands of physical and digital resources, including the LPL  Library of Things, ensuring everyone can find something that interests them.’’

September is Membership Month at the LPL, where they’re encouraging all community members to sign up for a free membership (library card) and “check out” all the LPL has to offer, which goes way beyond books, newspapers and magazines.

“We really want to showcase what the library has this month,” says LPL customer services manager Barbara Longair. “We have a whole bunch of crazy stuff in addition to books and videos and everything else. So we’d like you to come on down and get some sweet swag and just have fun at the library.”

Literally speaking, there’s something at the LPL for everyone.The library offers e-books and audiobooks, streaming videos and other media, along with computer and internet access, printing, and scanning services.

“We tend to have our programs according to demographics,” says Longair. “In the children’s area, we would have things like Story Time and Babes in the Library, which gives a chance for new parents to meet up with each other. One in particular that’s very popular is Dungeons and Dragons. We have a lot of adult programs. It’s about networking and connecting with others.”

Other “libraries within the library” include the Toy Library and the Library of Things, where members can take out a pressure cooker or a canning pot for making jam or pickles. There’s also the Makerspace, where members can use a 3D printer or a sewing machine. 

The LPL also provides meeting and event spaces, literacy and learning support through the Read On program, exam supervision, and a variety of programs for all ages, including cultural resources and accessibility services.

“What’s really neat is some of the ad hoc programs that happen,” says Longair. “There’s always something happening in the library even if it’s not a formal program. Some of the programs that we’ve got coming up…we’ve got author Emma Donahue, who’s a big deal. She’s coming on Oct. 16.”

Also happening during Membership Month is LPL’s 15th Word on the Street (WOTS) Festival on Sept. 20. WOTS is a free outdoor festival at the LPL Main Library, celebrating Canadian literacy, storytelling and the literary arts, featuring authors, storytellers, workshops, a marketplace, food trucks and family-friendly activities.

During the month of September, anyone who signs up for a library card or renews their existing LPL membership will be entered into a draw for a giveaway of limited-edition LPL-branded swag.

To sign up for a library card, visit any branch of the Lethbridge Public Library or go online lethlib.ca/join.