Updates

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July 10, 2007

NEW CENTRAL LIBRARY PROJECT
Update July 2007

In 1999 the Library Board recognized the need for a larger Central Library to keep pace with the growing Kitchener community.  Since that time the library has undertaken extensive public consultation and a number of studies to identify the library service needs in the community.

In fall 2006, in response to public feedback, the Kitchener Public Library Board approved a recommendation to conduct a follow-up study of the existing Main Library facility and site.
Levitt Goodman Architects were contracted to evaluate the library facility and site at 85 Queen St. N. to determine if the library’s space needs and functional requirements could be met by expanding and renovating the existing building on the current site.

After careful study and evaluation of the current Main Library facility and site, the architect’s findings indicate:

• There is space on the existing library site to expand
• A renovated and expanded Main Library can meet the space and functional requirements identified by the library and community
• Renovating the existing library space will partially address the library’s needs by allowing space to be used more efficiently
• Adding additional library space to the back of the library will allow for services, collections, and programs to be reorganized and expanded
• Expanding library space into the parking lot at the rear of the library would allow for approximately 23,000 sq. ft. per floor of additional library space
• Expanding the library into  the parking lot will require exploration of parking options adjacent to the library

As a result of the architect’s findings, and consistent with public feedback, the Library Board adopted a formal motion at its June 2007 meeting in support of expanding and renovating the Main Library on its current site at 85 Queen St. N.

Next Steps

The Library Board will develop a proposal for the renovation and expansion of the current Main Library for presentation to City Council and the public in fall 2007.  In addition, as part of the Library Board’s ongoing commitment to keeping the community informed about the future direction of library service, opportunities will be developed to engage the public and solicit feedback on the plans for a new Central Library.  The Library Board will also continue exploring options to meet the library parking needs and will work on developing a detailed financial plan for the new Central Library project.

Download this update (PDF)

October 25, 2006
In response to feedback the library received during the Centre Block Citizen’s Forum, the Kitchener Public Library Board has approved a recommendation to conduct a follow-up study of the existing Main Library facility and site.

Levitt Goodman Architects have been contracted to evaluate the library facility and site at 85 Queen St. N. to determine if the library’s space needs and functional requirements can be met by expanding and renovating the existing building on the current site.

The Library Board expects the study to be complete in early 2007.

February 1, 2006
Kitchener Central Library Project - Update to Finance and Corporate Services