Calgary Public Library - Shawnessy — Attraction in Calgary

Here’s a textbook example of how one bad employee can single-handedly ruin an entire establishment’s reputation. A special shoutout (or rather, a massive roast) to Tami—the exceptionally unpleasant staff member who decided to take out her bad day on me and my 3.5-year-old.

Apparently, Tami was in a mood, and despite my attempts to be understanding, she chose to be downright rude and condescending. She actually had the audacity to scold my toddler—in front of me, no less—for using the papers and glue that were literally placed on the table for kids to use. And when I graciously offered to volunteer and cut more paper for the library, she doubled down on her nastiness instead of showing an ounce of gratitude.

Honestly, I’m baffled. How does someone this ill-mannered and unprofessional end up working in a library filled with children and parents all day?

Tami, if you despise your job so much, do yourself and everyone else a favor—quit. There are plenty of careers where being perpetually frustrated and rude might actually be an asset. But in a space meant for kids and families? Not so much.

Oh, and let’s not forget—I actually tried to address this with Tami directly, like a reasonable adult. But instead of owning up to her behavior, she ducked and ran—twice. Impressive. Nothing screams “professionalism” quite like hiding from the very people you’re supposed to be helping.

So not only is she rude, but she also lacks the backbone to face the consequences of her own actions. Tami, if confrontation isn’t your thing, maybe don’t go around antagonizing parents and toddlers in the...

Oct. 10th, 4:30pm. I just left the library upset. I am new to this area and I went to the library to drop off a book I borrowed. I didn't know that books can be dropped off outside of the library. When I entered I looked around to find the drop off station. I couldn't find it, so I headed to the counter. There was an employee standing there. I gave her the book and she lectured me in a very rude and condescending manner that next time I have to drop off the books outside and that she is going to make an exception for this time. I was shocked the way she talked down to me. Her attitude and behaviour reflects very bad customer service. This person was very rude. I was there with my partner and they felt the same about her rudeness and lack of customer service. I am writing this to let the manager know. Because in a great place such as a library, sour, debbie - downers and unhappy, unfriendly, rude people shouldn't be working and make other people feel bad. Quit your job, if you being unhelpful and don't like working in customer service. If that helps, she has brown, straight hair, wears a pair of glasses, late 20 - 30, eastern European...

We moved recently and started using Shawnessy location after absolutely loving Fish Creek location for years. We support the library because we have first hand experienced its value. The multiple books, programs, and enriching environment have been incredible while raising a family. Having weakened immune systems in our household, the curbside pick up option was a true gift. At Fish Creek the staff had always been super friendly, never hinting annoyance. Shawnessy staff have sounded irritated numerous times. One unfortunate time our phone got disconnected so I stepped inside to explain what happened and walked in on the ladies complaining about curbside and how they feel they shouldn't have to do it. Even going inside this library, I have had a couple of friendly staff but mostly I feel like an inconvenience. My kids love reading, but this past time of going in my daughter panicked and wanted to leave immediately because she felt like the staff were angry with us. We had just asked for help checking out holds. I'm disappointed and seriously missing our old Fish...