Proponents of a new main branch library got to discuss what might be on their wish list Thursday.
An informal town hall was held at the current 52-year-old main branch to discuss and ask questions about what a (hopefully) future new library might include and conceptually what it might look like.
"It's not about what the city can do for the library, it's about what the library can do for the city," said Susan Watson, one of about 25 people that showed up to talk with library CEO Steven Kraft and representatives from library consultants KPMG.
Ian Panabaker, the city's General Manager of Downtown Renewal, also dropped by and helped offer some context and answer some questions.
Another open house is planned for Jan. 9, one in the afternoon and one in the evening.
"We have no space here. We've run out of space," Kraft said of the current library, which was built in 1965 with an annex added 10 years later.
He also pointed out the significant accessibility issues a with the building.
One attendee was a little harsher in her evaluation of the library.
"People love their library here but they don't to hang out in it. It's dark and depressing," said the woman.
Kraft said it is his "wishful thinking" that a new library will be a reality between 2020 and 2023.
In response to questions, Panabaker said that the fact the property is an old burial ground will be dealt with respectfully and in accordance with provincial rules. He also said that when it comes to parking, "there's a desire to go up and down" with parking at the facility, meaning some underground parking.
Kraft showed some dreamy-looking libraries from around the world, including the new Halifax library and the Calgary library.
Other points during the 60-minute meeting, included:
- being efficient with space to make the project more cost efficient and palatable to city council.
- lots of natural light.
- providing services for the elderly
- possibly having a 'maker space.'
- having a cafe.
- possibly lit and easily accessible book shelves.
- partnerships with community groups or businesses.
- whether or not an auditorium with fixed seats was a good use of space.
The next important date for getting a potential new library is Feb. 13 when KPMG will present a business case for a new library. If approved, the next step would be detailed design work, for which the city has already allocated $1.9 million.
The city has affirmed that a new library will be part of the redevelopment of the Baker Street parking lot, for which the city is currently in the process of seeking a private developer.
The city has issued a Request For Qualifications for potential partner with a deadline of the end of January.
Kraft urged those in attendance to contact their councillors and show up at the city council meeting in February.
"It's a chance to reiterate how important a new library is for the whole city, not just downtown," Panabaker added.
