The Grande Prairie Library Board has won the Minister’s Award for Municipal and Public Library Excellence for its baby rave program.
The award recognizes a public library services that respond to community needs and provide a direct benefit to the public.
At the GPPL, it hosts a free, drop-in program for children under three years-old. The program is filled with colourful lights, bubbles and nursery rhyme remixes helps set the scene for a dance party for ome of the younger visitors.
The program combines music and movement with sensory play, giving children opportunities to explore rhythm and sound, practise motor skills and interact with others. For parents and caregivers, it offers a welcoming place to meet other families and share an outing for free of charge.
Officials with the libary say that it devolped baby rave after hearing requesting for more baby and toddler-realted programming.
“Baby Rave is a place where toddlers can be toddlers, and where families know that their energy is welcome,” says Hailey McCullough, Director of GPPL. “We want those first library visits to be joyful experiences that give children and caregivers a reason to keep coming back.”
The first event, was held back in February 2025 as a Toddler Disco and welcomed 122 families. The following summer the GPPL heled another event, with 93 families attending. By halloween of 2025, the event saw 233 families at the Halloween Baby Rave.
Staff with the library say that caregivers regularly ask when the next event will take place, with many returning.
“Our staff have brought so much creativity and care to Baby Rave,” says McCullough. “This award recognizes that work and the importance of listening to our community. We’re grateful to the families who have helped make the program such a success.”
Baby rave is held several times a year, you can find more information about the upcoming baby raves on the libraries website.
