Posted on 22 October 2025 by Chris Brown.
Long gone are the days when the library was just a place to borrow books. In 2025, if you asked 10 people what the library is to them, it’s possible you’d get 10 different answers.
Sure, for some it is still just a place to borrow books. For others the library is where they borrow movies, music and video games. For some it’s where they connected with a social worker who helped them fill out paperwork to apply for government programs. For some it’s their quiet place to work on a group project. For still more it’s where they made new connections and friends.
Simply put, the library is an invaluable community resource, a hub of learning, support, development and social inclusion.
October is Canadian Library Month, and the theme is Libraries For Life. Medicine Hat Public Library is encouraging everyone to come down and experience all the services available here.
To get the most out of the library, the first thing we suggest you do is sign up for a library card, if you don’t have one already.
“A library card opens a world of library services,” says Ken Feser, MHPL’s chief librarian. “You can borrow books, CDs, DVDs, graphic novels and even things like a sewing machine or button maker. You can also access online resources like ebooks and online courses. You can even get materials from other libraries and use other Alberta libraries just like a local member.”
Even if you don’t have or sign up for a card – but they’re free, so why wouldn’t you? – you can use many of our services without one.
“Anyone can drop into our beautiful library, hang out in our comfortable spaces and enjoy our view of the river,” says Feser. “Our daily programs are often open to the public with no registration required, you can get help from our staff, use our Internet workstations and do a lot more with no card.”
Medicine Hat Public Library also provides meeting rooms and spaces, services such as exam supervision and study resources, wellness kits for vulnerable community members and programs for all ages.
A commitment to inclusivity and having something for everyone is one of the cornerstones of the library, says Feser.
“Our library is a place that welcomes everyone and treats everyone with dignity and respect. Every day I see social interactions that bring people out of isolation, connect people of different backgrounds and lift people up. I'm so proud to be part of an institution and a tradition that makes people happy and strong.”
Come to the library to sign up for a card or visit mhpl.shortgrass.ca for more information.
Visit librarianship.ca for more information on Canadian Library Month.
Follow the library on social media: @mhpubliclibrary