Memorial Park Library

The library opened in early 1912. Designed by the Boston architectural firm “Mclean and Wright,” the Memorial Park Library is almost identical to Attleboro, Massachusetts, also a Carnegie Library. Full of rich details, the Memorial Park Library is built in Edwardian Classism, a pre-First World War-style that its similar to the French Beaux-Arts style. The elegance and grandiosity of Edwardian Classism are often echoed by the formal landscapes they live in. The Memorial Park Library is the perfect example of this. Set in Central Memorial Park, whose symmetrical layout and manicured lawns with a mix of domestic and exotic plants and trees typical of the Edwardian era make this library and park one of the few remained examples of Edwardian Classism in Calgary. The library itself is richly designed with Pasakpoo Sandstone from the Oliver Quarry. The roof is made of copper, the floors were constructed of Douglas Fir, and the trim throughout is Mahogany and birch. This finery is thanks to Annie Davidson, who hosted literary meetings from her home, forming the “Calgary Women’s Literary Club.” She, along with other well-educated women, campaigned to have a public library built in the city. It was because of these women that Carnegie agreed to give the money for the library

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