‘Huge demand’: Calgary Public Library hits highest circulation in its history

Visitors explore the Calgary Central Library following its opening in Calgary, Alta., Thursday, Nov. 1, 2018. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh)

The Calgary Public Library (CPL) has reached a historic milestone.

Officials say the CPL recorded the highest circulation in its history in 2025, with a whopping 17.5 million items borrowed.

The CPL saw seven million people visit its 22 locations last year, with more than 11 million physical materials and 6.5 million digital titles borrowed.

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“Our service numbers continue to show that Calgary Public Library remains a critical resource and community hub for Calgarians,” said CEO Sarah Meilleur in a news release.

“While our members are reading more than ever before, we’re also seeing huge demand for technology services and community space.”

The Calgary Public Library has more than 815,000 active members.

Officials say “digital equity” was a key driver of library visits in the last year.

“Community members completed 2.5 million print jobs, used 1.1 million Wi-Fi sessions and sat down at a computer or with a Chromebook 537,223 times.”

Meilleur said the accomplishment wouldn’t be possible without the CPL’s “incredible staff.”