LIBRARY GRAND OPENING EVENTS

The Calgary Public Library has a full lineup of events and ceremonies during opening week. Special guests will include former International Space Station commander Colonel Chris Hadfield, who will give a presentation during opening night on Nov. 1.

Here are some of highlights of the new Central Library’s opening week activities:

Thursday, Nov. 1: Grand Opening Celebration | 10 a.m. — 8 p.m. Celebrations will include an opening ceremony, live music, free tours and special guests.

Thursday, Nov. 1: Opening Night with Chris Hadfield | 7 p.m. — 9 p.m. Colonel Hadfield — a decorated astronaut, engineer, pilot, author, and musician as well as the first Canadian Commander of the International Space Station — headlines new Central Library’s Opening Day celebrations. Tickets are free. Register at calgarylibrary.ca

Friday, Nov. 2: Lit Gala | 7:30 p.m. A fundraising event unlike any other, the Lit Gala will feature experiences on every level of the new library, performers. Proceeds will launch a Spotlight Speaker Series for world-class thought leaders at the new Central Library. To purchase tickets, visit litgala.ca

Saturday, Nov. 3 & Sunday,

Nov. 4: Opening Family Fun Weekend Free programming, tours, live music, craft stations and more.

All public transit will be free on Nov. 3 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., to help kick off the new Central Library’s Opening Family Fun Weekend.