Fonds F2121 - Foothills Library Association fonds

The Foothills Library Association was founded by a small group of librarians to bring together individuals within the Calgary library community to share and promote the concerns of librarianship. Initially called the Calgary Library Association, one of the objectives was to generate greater social and professional relations among those working in Calgary-area libraries and those interested in libraries. The first meeting was held on September 20, 1973 and was attended by 70 people. Membership drew from a diversity of libraries including special libraries, public libraries as well as college and university libraries. At first, events were primarily social gatherings, but, at the request of association members, discussion topics soon become more professional.

The association organized or sponsored lectures, seminars, conferences, meetings, exhibits and workshops pertaining to librarianship, librarians, libraries and similar topics. Panels of experts from universities and libraries were invited to contribute as guest speakers. Topics were often focused on the evolving role and skillset of librarians to aiming to enrich the professional knowledge and abilities of librarians. Current issues faced by a wide range of librarians and librarian technicians – automation, difficult patrons and stress management – were also brought up in workshops. Social events continued including the annual September “Bubbly Brunch” and tours of libraries and archives. In 1980-1981 an annual "Calgary Libraries in Action" night quickly became a cornerstone event for the association. Eight to ten librarians were invited to share and discuss innovative practices.

Membership included a quarterly newsletter entitled FLAG (Foothills Library Association Gazette), established in 1979-1980, and an annual membership directory from 1978. A Job Bank (later changed to Job Line), was set up in 1978 and immediately proved a successful endeavor to connect job seekers and potential employers. The association also offered bursaries for new librarians to attend the L.A.A. (Library Association of Alberta) or C.L.A. (Canadian Library Association) conferences.

The Association continues to offer learning events and social activities to its membership.