The Drumheller Library Society unveiled a new collection of Canadian themed books at the Drumheller Library on Tuesday, May 30 at 5:30 p.m.
To commemorate Canada’s 150th year since its confederation in 1867, the library felt it was an appropriate way to show their pride and enthusiasm.
“I think it’s the opportunity to focus in on Canadian history and authors and small presses in Canada,” said Linda Traquair, Chair of the Library Society. “It’s really a way to recognize them.”
As well as the new addition to the library, a wall hanging was revealed in celebratory fashion of the 150th birthday.
Traquair’s niece from Beiseker made the outline for the panel that’s in the middle.
Initially, the books were purchased by the Library Society to help aid the library itself with the Canadiana idea. Staff members then sorted through numerous amounts of books to determine which would be displayed.
“The staff had put some of the books out and then Linda and I went through stacks and pulled as many of the books as we could find that were Canadian and purchased with the money,” said Nielsen.
Library users were so excited, they rented out the books from the collection before the unveiling had even happened.
“I came in this afternoon and there were holes in the display,” said Nielsen. “People had been in and they thought that was a great book and they checked it out so I was going back through the stacks to find books to put in the holes.”
The duo didn’t just find books but also videos like the Alberta filmed TV show Heartland. One of the hardest items to find was a simple Canadian cookbook within the books bought for the collection.
They felt that Canada also needed a fair representation from all coasts including Nunavut, therefore adding in more of a cultural side. One of the reasons behind the problem was the leaking wall in the library in 2015.
“We got reimbursed for it but it was an opportunity to further enhance our collection,” said Traquair.
“We hope people will come out and see the new book collection and read about Canada as it celebrates the 150th birthday of confederation,” said Nielsen.
