MOOSE JAW — The Palliser Regional Library marked 2024 as a year of creativity, connection, and community learning, delivering nearly 3,000 programs across its network and drawing close to 27,000 participants.
That success was front and centre during the library’s annual general meeting, held recently at the Moose Jaw Public Library, where staff and board members reviewed the year’s highlights.
The diverse lineup of programs included everything from literacy and craft nights to culinary contests, musical performances — and even space exploration.
A major standout was a visit by Canadian astronaut Colonel Jeremy Hansen, hosted at the Moose Jaw Public Library as part of a Canadian Space Agency grant on Feb. 9, 2024. Hansen’s appearance drew a packed crowd and was praised for its motivational message.
“His talk emphasized perseverance, learning from failure, and recognizing every person’s value,” said Gwen Fisher, head librarian at the Moose Jaw Public Library. “It was a moment that truly embodied what public libraries stand for.”
Summer programming also proved to be a hit across the region. Under the theme “Adventure Begins at Your Library,” branches participated in the Collaborative Summer Library Program, which drew 3,664 participants across the region. Readers of all ages tracked a combined 617,192 minutes read, using both traditional paper logs and the Reader Zone app.
Adding to the summer fun, children’s entertainer Mr. Eric (Eric Paetkau) visited eight branches — including Avonlea, Bethune, Craik, Elbow, Moose Jaw, Mossbank, Riverhurst, and Rouleau — bringing music, laughter, and audience participation. “He’s become a bit of a favourite,” one staff member noted at the meeting.
Adult programming also received a spotlight this year. Elbow Library earned an honourable mention for hosting creative and social events such as a “Puzzle, Pizza, and Pinot” night, murder mystery parties, and a high tea celebration.
Loreburn Library, named Branch of the Year, was lauded for its “Try Your Hand At…” series, which encouraged lifelong learning through activities like calligraphy, cookie decorating, line dancing, and Christmas wreath-making — the latter drawing 40 community participants.
Libraries also worked to connect patrons to hands-on learning. Assiniboia Library introduced a fibre studio and machine sewing program, both volunteer-led, and partnered with community groups to support ongoing workshops. Many libraries also integrated book displays and tie-ins to further encourage reading related to given program themes.
For children and youth, the library’s programming included Dungeons and Dragons sessions, book clubs, button-making workshops, and story trails — interactive storytelling displays set up in windows along main streets to promote literacy in a fun, walkable format.
Staff noted that while not all programs are strictly book-based, they remain mission-aligned. Different formats used to deliver educational programming also facilitate learning across various learning categories including visual, auditory, linguistic, and others.
“Our mandate includes informational, cultural, educational, and recreational programming,” explained Director Arwen Rudolph. “Whether it’s macramé or a music show, we’re creating access to learning and creativity for all.”
For more information about Palliser Regional Library, visit PalliserLibrary.ca.
