From Power to Pages: Sandstone Energy and the My First Bookshelf Program

For the past eight years, Sandstone Energy has proudly upheld its mission to donate 100% of profits to the Calgary Public Library Foundation (CPLF). The idea that Calgarians could pay their utility bills while supporting the growth of Calgary’s libraries has remained a powerful and motivating force behind everything we do.

In 2020, we deepened our commitment by directing our monthly contributions to support the My First Bookshelf program in partnership with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. This initiative provides new, age-appropriate books to children from birth until their fifth birthday—delivered directly to their homes. Since Sandstone came on board to support the My First Bookshelf program, approximately 4,362 books have been delivered to children in Calgary.

The My First Bookshelf program has grown into one of the Calgary Public Library’s most cherished offerings. Over the past year, this early literacy initiative has reached incredible milestones. The program’s capacity now serves over 4,000 young Calgarians every month, ensuring that more families experience the joy and developmental benefits of early reading. Themed storytimes have also continued to inspire and engage families, fostering a deeper connection with books and learning.

One of the program’s most remarkable achievements came in July 2024, when the Library delivered its 100,000th book—an incredible milestone reached in under four years. By the end of August, an astonishing 105,407 books had been mailed to children across the community. These books aren’t just being read—they’re being shared with siblings, friends, and families, creating a ripple effect of literacy and learning. These achievements are a direct result of your support. Thank you for helping us fill so many children’s first bookshelves!

To celebrate these achievements and provide a deeper look into the program’s transformative impact, you are invited to join a special webinar. On Wednesday, January 22, at 12:30 p.m., My First Bookshelf program coordinator Anisha Mussa, and Director of Donor Engagement Courtney McLaughlin will discuss the incredible milestones reached in 2024 and share stories about how your support is changing the lives of young readers in Calgary. Please RSVP here.

"We are immensely grateful to Sandstone Energy and their customers for their support of the My First Bookshelf program at Calgary Public Library. It's wonderful to have the support of a local business that sees the value in investing in their community and in literacy development for our youngest readers. Thank you for doing so much good with your utility bills each month!" --- Courtney McLaughlin, Director of Donor Engagement, Calgary Public Library Foundation

Thank you for continuing to support Sandstone Energy and the Calgary Public Library Foundation. Together, we are building a stronger, more literate future for our community.