What’s at Stake: A Message from RDPL’s Board Chair re: Bill 28

On May 13, 2026, the Government of Alberta passed Bill 28, the Municipal Affairs and Housing Statutes Amendment Act, which includes significant changes to the Alberta Libraries Act that would affect every public library in the province.

A Message from RDPL Board Chair Laura Thevenaz

On behalf of the Red Deer Public Library Board, I want to share my concerns regarding Bill 28, opens a new window, the Municipal Affairs and Housing Statutes Amendment Act, and its implications for public libraries and local governance in Alberta.

Across our province, public libraries play a vital role in strengthening communities by supporting lifelong learning, expanding access to information, and creating welcoming spaces for connection and opportunity.

At RDPL, we welcomed 673,972 visits across our four branches in 2025, an increase of 13.6% from the previous year. During that time, 760,646 items were borrowed, and 28,875 people took part in 1,707 programs designed for all ages and interests.

At the heart of RDPL’s work is a commitment to intellectual freedom. This means building collections that reflect a wide range of perspectives, including those that some may find challenging, controversial, or even “unacceptable.” The library upholds the principle that individuals should be free to explore ideas without restriction; the library’s role is to provide access, while allowing individuals and families to make their own choices about what is appropriate for them.

The Government of Alberta’s Bill 28, which has now passed its third reading, introduces new barriers to access, shifts decision-making away from local boards and trained library professionals, and raises significant concerns about privacy. This is particularly concerning given that recent research, opens a new window shows 82 per cent of Albertans already trust their local libraries to make decisions about the materials they offer, making such changes unnecessary and out of step with public confidence.

Public library collections are already carefully curated and organized by age and intended audience, guided by local policies, knowledgeable staff, and established reconsideration processes. Introducing province-wide restrictions on access to materials amounts to censorship – even if those materials remain on the shelves – and creates new barriers for both adults and young people seeking lawful access to information.

In addition, proposed requirements such as age verification, inspections, or staff gatekeeping could compromise the confidentiality of library use, create inequitable experiences for families and caregivers, and place unrealistic demands on libraries that already operate with limited staff and resources.

RDPL is part of the Coalition of Alberta Public Libraries, which represents 324 public library service points serving 99 per cent of Albertans. Together, Alberta’s public libraries are asking for your support to urge the Government to consult with Alberta libraries about regulations related to Bill 28 in order to minimize disruption to public libraries, patrons, and communities. Keep reading to find out how you can help.

Respectfully,

Laura Thevenaz
Red Deer Public Library Board Chair