Engine 23 is dedicated to creating new stories at the Fish Creek Library in Calgary

If there was a fire they wanted to start in Engine 23, it was a burning desire to learn.

A retired Calgary Fire Department truck that was taken out of storage and repurposed in the children's area at the Fish Creek location of the Calgary Public Library had its first service call with young readers on April 15.

The truck, which served the Calgary Fire Department for 18 years, was decommissioned in 2016 and first placed in the old Central Library. Back in 2018, with the opening of the new Central Library, the fire truck had to be put back into storage.

Calgary Public Library CEO Sarah Meiller recounted how the library was carefully moved to its current location at 3 a.m. about a year ago through an entrance on the northwest wall.

“But the thing is, this story of Engine 23 is just beginning. Because today it's these kids, all these friends driving Engine 23, and they're creating their own adventures and stories,” Meillor said.

“Through this launch, the Calgary Public Library is committed to connecting an entire generation of children with access to an environment built for creativity and innovation.”

Meiller said the space has a big impact on young people, perhaps inspiring early readers who gather for story time on the specially built stairs leading up to the engine.

“These are the moments I am very happy to witness; small moments that have a big impact on children's early learning and literacy,” he said.

“Enjoyment, enjoyment and early learning through books and stories is one of the top priorities at the library.”

The truck is on the second floor of the library. Its weight has been reduced to 20 tonnes and it is surrounded by an accessible device where children of all ages and abilities can jump on board.

More than an engine

Calgary Fire Chief Steve Dongworth said reinforcing the library floor to hold the 17,000-kilogram engine was quite a feat. There is something special for everyone – all ages – to enjoy.

“I think the real value of these exciting new learning spaces lies not just in the engine or the activities, but in the values ​​they represent,” he said.

“The teamwork, courage, determination, compassion and community spirit that this project required and embraced is evident today.”

Chief Dongworth said they appreciate the partnership with the Calgary Public Library and the Calgary Public Library Foundation, which helped launch the Stairway to Literacy fundraising campaign.

As an avid reader, the chief said it had a real personal connection for him. He said there's nothing like getting lost in a great book. He says that in a troubled world, it is important to encourage children to be literate for their future success.

“That's why this project is very important for me. It encourages a love of learning, curiosity and adventure, empowering children to make a truly positive difference,” he said.

11th district. Courtney Penner, a regional city councilor and council representative on the Calgary Public Library board, said it was a great collaboration between city departments that saw the project come to life.

“It was my home library when I was little, and seeing how it transforms and the way it changes lives is a constant and ongoing inspiration for the work I do,” she said.

“When we create spaces for children to imagine their future and find pathways through collaborative play with others, we set them up for success.”

Chief Dongworth had his final words for the children in the audience as they eagerly awaited their moment in the shiny new truck.

“Let your imagination soar and your curiosity run wild when you climb aboard Engine 23 and experience the activities in the learning space,” he said.

“You have the power to make a big difference in the world around you. So dream big, be curious, and never forget where adventure and magic will take you.