The public is invited to pick up a free 2012 Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor calendar starting on Dec. 1 at selected libraries and visitor centers.

The calendar captures the unique beauty, history, people and character of New York's canals and canal communities. Each month features one of 12 winning images from this year's Erie Canalway photo contest.

Ten thousand calendars will be available on a first come, first served basis.

Locations in the area with calendars include the Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, Mechanicville District Public Library, Saratoga Springs Visitor Center, Saratoga National Historical Park, Albany Public Library on Washington Avenue, Amsterdam Free Library, Riverspark on Remsen Street in Cohoes, William K. Sanford Town Library, Troy Public Library, the Hudson Mohawk Gateway/Burden Ironworks Museum in Troy, and Waterford Public Library.

For more information, check here.