The Project

The current Main Branch facility of Kitchener Public Library, built almost fifty years ago, is long overdue for renovation and expansion. In fact, public pressure for an enhanced central library dates back to 1999. As the nature of Kitchener’s demographics have changed, and its population continues to expand, the demand for library programs and services has grown in concert.

The Library Board listened and commissioned a series of assessments of the existing building, solicited public feedback on the subject of a new central library, and ultimately prepared a strong case in support of a better library for the citizens of Kitchener that was presented to Council in September 2004.

In October 2008, Kitchener Council approved the public call to renovate the Queen Street facility and add a 25,000 square foot expansion to the existing structure.

The contract for consulting and design services for the Central Library project was awarded to Levitt Goodman Architects in association with local firm, The Walter Fedy Partnership, and Phillip H. Carter Architect.

Schematic designs of the library and underground parking projects were completed and two public open house events were arranged to share the designs and encourage public feedback. Hundreds of Kitchener residents took the opportunity to view our designs and provide overwhelmingly enthusiastic reaction.

Architectural renderings can be viewed online at: www.kpl.org/central

The library will continue to offer its public services throughout construction, which is scheduled to begin autumn 2010, and the new Central Library will be completed in early 2013.