Outstanding library service honoured at annual READ Awards

Chinook Arch officials note every year there are two $250 winners, two $500 winners, and two $750 winners. They say this year also marked the first presentation of the Gillian Watkinson “Doing a Lot with a Little” Award.

In 2025 Gill Watkinson, a dearly loved long-time Chinook Arch staff member passed away. To honour her memory, library staff say it is their pleasure to announce the $500 annual award in her honour. Officials say Gill was passionate about libraries and the work they do in their communities. They say she frequently remarked how incredible it was that libraries did “so much with so little.”

The READ Awards were celebrated on Friday, April 17 during the Southern Alberta Library Conference.

$750 READ Awards

Claresholm Public Library: Weekly STEM Program for Kids 6 and Up

What began as a small weekly group of six children has grown into a vibrant community of 12–17 participants who collaborate, problem-solve, and support one another. Chinook Arch officials say the program fosters curiosity, creativity, and friendship, while offering children a safe space where they feel seen and valued. Beyond STEM skills, officials say the lasting impact is confidence, belonging, and meaningful relationships that extend beyond the library walls.

Coaldale Public Library: Mornings at the Museum

Officials say this program brings families together for early-literacy and experiential learning in partnership with the local museum. Each week, children explore exhibits and engage in themed story times, songs, and hands-on activities— examples include learning about sugar beet history, painting with colored ice, trying on costumes, making butter, and observing live forge demonstrations. This immersive program connects literacy, STEAM, and local history while fostering community engagement and partnership.

$500 READ Awards

Lethbridge Public Library: Healthy Heroes

Officials say the library offers a meal program that extends support to students when school lunch programs aren’t available. In partnership with MyCityCare, Chinook Arcg officials say the program provided over 800 meals during the summer and the October strike period, creating a welcoming, no judgment space for children to access food with dignity. Officials say it’s a clear example of the library responding to a growing community need.

Magrath Public Library: Monday Nights at the Library

Weekly the library is transformed into a community hub for multigenerational fun and learning. Officials say families engage in activities like Bad Art Night, Life-Sized Clue, Blizzard Book Battle, and Holiday Family Feud. These programs are said to build connections across ages and abilities, strengthen bonds, and foster familiarity with library resources, all while creating an environment filled with laughter and creativity.

$250 READ Awards

Jim and Mary Kearl Library of Cardston: Inclusive Reading Corner

Officials say this space was created to support children who find traditional library environments overwhelming. Chinook Arch officials say it features a soft enclosed tent, weighted blankets, and noise-cancelling headphones, and is designed to create a calm, child-centered environment. By removing barriers and promoting equitable access to literacy, Chinook Arch says this program has helped children feel welcome, supported, and confident in exploring books at their own pace.

Glenwood Municipal Library: Kids Zone

During the Provincial Teachers’ Strike, officials note the library offered a fun, welcoming space to children in the community each week, filled with games, hands-on activities, snacks, and creative exploration. It was noted that children engaged deeply by building, inventing, and learning together. Over the course of the program, 33 children are said to have participated, and the library provided what they described as a responsive, inclusive hub where families felt supported and connected during a challenging time.

$500 Gillian Watkinson “Doing a Lot with a Little” Award

Carmangay and District Municipal Library: More Than Books – Food Security and Community Connection at the Library

Chinook Arch officials say this program started as a response to immediate food needs and has grown into a Satellite Food Bank and bi-weekly Food Rescue program. It operates in partnership with Vulcan Regional FCSS and the local food bank. Officials say it not only provides access to food but also reduces barriers, connects people to additional resources, and makes the library a welcoming, supportive hub for the whole community.

by LNN Staff

Outstanding library service honoured at annual READ Awards

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