Families in Cochrane, Alberta, looking to enjoy the water this summer have a simple way to stay safe thanks to a program at the Cochrane Public Library. The library offers a variety of lifejackets that residents can borrow at no cost using their library card.
The library participates in the Lifesaving Society Lifejacket Loaner Station program, which aims to keep community members safe while they visit local lakes and rivers. Available gear ranges from infant sizes to adult large and extra-large options. The library even stocks lifejackets for dogs in small, medium, and large sizes.
This initiative began in 2019 through a partnership with the Lifesaving Society and funding from Cabela’s. In 2021, the library expanded its outdoor equipment collection to include camping gear, such as tents, tarps, and first aid kits, alongside an increased supply of lifejackets. This broader collection of items, which also includes garden tools supported by the TD Friends of the Environment Fund and Cochrane Canadian Tire, helps make outdoor activities more accessible to all residents.
Residents can visit the library at 405 Railway Street West to browse the full selection of available equipment. The lifejacket loan program remains an active resource for the community, providing a practical solution for those heading out for seasonal fun on the water.
