he Informed Library: Fireside Chat – Fundraising & Sustainability (Free Event)
When: May 8, 2026 • 1:00–3:00 PM (MT)
Where: Calgary Public Library – Central Library, Performance Hall (in person or online)
Hosted by: Library Association of Alberta (LAA) & The Alberta Library (TAL)

Join us for The Informed Library, a free learning series supporting library workers across Alberta. Whether you're new to library service or a long‑time professional, you’re invited to learn, connect, and explore fresh ideas shaping the future of library work.

This session features Tracy Johnson, CEO of the Calgary Public Library Foundation, and one of Canada’s most dynamic leaders in library fundraising. With more than a decade of hands‑on experience—and a track record that includes the landmark $350M Add In Campaign—Tracy has consistently pushed the boundaries of what library philanthropy can achieve. Under her leadership, the Foundation has grown from 900 supporters to more than 31,000 donors, demonstrating the transformative potential of community‑driven fundraising. 

Tracy will share real‑world strategies for building donor relationships, inspiring community investment, and designing fundraising initiatives that resonate deeply with the public. She’ll also discuss the bold Fifth Book Campaign, launched in 2025 to address rising book costs and strengthen the Library’s collections—an inspiring example of mission‑aligned fundraising in action. 

Whether you join us in person or online, you’ll gain practical insights you can take back to your own library, no matter its size or funding structure.

During this session, you’ll:

• Explore innovative approaches to library fundraising
• Learn how Tracy and her team built a donor community of more than 31,000 supporters
• Hear the story behind the Fifth Book Campaign and its impact on library collections
• Discover techniques for strengthening donor engagement and community trust
• Take part in an open conversation and Q&A about real‑world fundraising challenges

Attending in person?
Stick around after the session for informal networking and light refreshments supported by the Library Association of Alberta.

Attending Virtually?

Watch live on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/live/o_1gE6KiO9w?si=2w0P6cH_viezZKEf