October is Canadian Library Month and the third Friday in October is Canadian Library Workers Day
Far more than books, libraries are welcoming community spaces where people learn, connect, create, and discover. Within every facility, and behind every book and program, are library workers. They bring knowledge, care, and commitment to work with them every day.
October is Canadian Library Month, a celebration of the important role that libraries, and library workers, play in our community. This year, October 16 is extra special because is also marks Canadian Library Workers Day.
Libraries are more than just books
You may be surprised by the vast array of services that Winnipeg Public Library workers provide. Beyond physical books and programming, they also connect people with technology and digital resources.
The most rewarding part of the job for Sarah Giesbrecht is being able to directly work with the local St. John’s community and see the differences made in people’s lives.
“I run a drop-in tech help program with a local community group, and we’ve helped so many people build their digital literacy skills to be able to access essential services or stay connected with family and friends,” said Giesbrecht, the Branch Head Librarian at the St. John’s Library.
It’s wonderful to be able to provide a free and safe place for people to spend their time.
Giesbrecht encourages people to drop in to one of the many free programs where they could learn to bead or chat about films, sit and read or use the computer, colour, play a game, or put on a puppet show.
Behind the scenes, our library staff are also logistical magicians. They’re organizing crates of books to be shipped between branches so you can pick up and drop them off at your closest branch. They’re also planning free programming for a variety of ages and interests.
“It’s incredible how much goes on at the library, and all the programs we have to offer,” said Jamie McDonald, Library Safety Specialist. “From children’s programs to book clubs and community events, there is so much work happening that most people have no idea about. I’m constantly amazed by the dedication, expertise and passion that goes into making the library the incredible community space that it is.”
Fostering a love of learning
Library workers support access to information and literacy skill development, playing an important role in introducing children to the joy of reading, supporting lifelong learning for Winnipeggers of all ages, and helping students and researchers find reliable information.
Whether they’re planning and leading programs, assisting with technology and our digital library, developing collections, answering questions, or helping people navigate information, library workers make a meaningful difference in the lives of Winnipeggers every day. They ensure that Winnipeg Public Library remains a vibrant, inclusive, and accessible place for everyone.
On Canadian Library Workers Day and every day, we thank all Winnipeg Public Library staff for their hard work, expertise, and commitment to serving our community. Best articulated by Timothy Healy, the Former President, New York Public Library, “The most important asset of any library goes home at night – the library staff.”
We encourage you to join us in recognizing the contributions of library employees and celebrating the true heart of our libraries by visiting your local library branch today.
Learn more about the library collection
Want to know more about how we choose the books, movies, music, and digital materials available? Aileen Clear, Collections Librarian, takes you behind the scenes in the September 2026 episode of Our City, Our Podcast. She shares how we build a collection that reflects the many communities and interests of Winnipeggers, including materials in more than 20 languages and resources for all ages.
