The City of Guelph is receiving a federal investment of $13.5 million to support the construction of a new central library.

Planned to be 88,000 sq. ft., the new facility will transform the Baker Street municipal parking lot to replace the current central library, which opened in 1965. The new building will be larger, house a bigger collection, be more accessible, and include programming, gathering, and meeting spaces.

“Libraries are the trademark of educated, equitable and democratic societies. Cities across Canada are turning to these inclusive building types to revitalize their downtowns, boost visitors, and enhance access to information and resources. Guelph’s new central library will help contribute to a thriving community as a hub that will inspire residents to learn and explore for years to come,” said Lloyd Longfield, MP for Guelph.

As a net-zero carbon facility, sustainability and climate resiliency are key factors in the design. Also, included backup power sources and heating will help the building operate as an emergency shelter, as it will be constructed to withstand severe weather events.

The federal government is investing $13.5 million in this project through the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) program and the City of Guelph is contributing more than $51.4 million.

“The Green and Inclusive Community Building program funding will help Guelph in building a new, state-of-the-art, fully accessible main library to replace the current library, which no longer meets the needs of the community. The funding will help us reduce capital costs while building a net-zero carbon facility, bringing Guelph closer to meeting our Race To Zero commitment to become a net zero carbon community by 2050,” said Cam Guthrie, Guelph Mayor.

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Featured image: (Guelph Public Library)

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