New Masset Library: Coming Soon!

Last updated: March 1, 2025

Construction is almost complete for the new Masset Library and Haida Language Immersion Lab. The building’s framework and exterior is now complete, with the anticipated arrival of cedar beams having arrived – marking another exciting step forward.

With the exterior and interior nearing completion, Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) is finalizing the ordering and installation of furniture and equipment, as well as opening day collection, to ensure the space is ready for the community as soon as possible.

Once completed, residents and visitors of Haida Gwaii will have access to 3,870 square feet of space, state of the art technologies, and a new opening day collection, in the Village of Masset, designed to foster learning, connection, and cultural preservation.

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Thanks to our partners

“We are delighted this day is finally here,” says Erin Hemmens, Chair of the VIRL Board of Trustees. “I would like to thank the Village of Masset, Old Massett Village Council, and Xaad Kíl Née (Haida Language Office) for their unwavering support and guidance throughout this project. Their patience and collaboration have been invaluable. We also extend our gratitude to the North Coast Regional District (NCRD), the Gwaii Trust Society, and Northern Development Initiatives Trust (NDIT) for their financial support. We are truly honored – Haw’aa.”

Features and amenities of the new facility:

• Architectural elements honoring Haida culture, including roof pitch, timber beams and columns, and vertical cedar siding.
• A dedicated learning space focused on knowledge transfer through technology and language preservation.
• Open library space featuring comfortable reading and study areas for all ages.
• A shared/bookable meeting room.
• A cozy fireplace lounge for reading and gathering.
• A bright, interactive children’s area.
• Expanded hours of operation and increased programming to foster community engagement.

“The Village of Masset has long anticipated this updated library building, and we are thrilled that construction is progressing,” says Sheri Disney, Mayor of the Village of Masset. “With input from both Masset and Old Massett, VIRL has thoughtfully incorporated community feedback into the library’s design, ensuring it meets our needs. This investment in our community is truly exciting!”

The approved budget for the project is $4.2 million, funded through VIRL’s Capital Levies, a loan from the Municipal Finance Authority via the North Coast Regional District, and grants from Gwaii Trust and NDIT. VIRL is actively seeking additional funding to support the project’s completion.

Unitech Construction Management was awarded the construction contract in August following a public tender. A detailed construction timeline will be shared with the public as it becomes available.

For more information, see our latest press release here: https://virl.bc.ca/new-masset-library-breaks-ground

The Haida Language Immersion Lab: A Vital Community Resource

The Haida Language Immersion Lab, operated by X̱aad Kíl Née (Haida Language Office), a department of Old Massett Village Council, will be a dedicated learning space within the new library. This innovative facility will provide resources, technology, and flexible infrastructure to support the preservation and growth of X̱aad Kíl—the G̱aw Tlagee dialect of the Haida language.

Key Features of the Haida Language Immersion Lab:

• A dedicated learning environment where language learners can practice comfortably.
• Space for X̱aad Kíl Née to develop, organize, and store language learning materials and curriculum.
• Flexible infrastructure supporting language learning, recording, and knowledge-sharing activities.
• A shared bookable meeting room with videoconferencing technology for remote learning and collaboration.
• A fully equipped kitchenette for gatherings and cultural activities.
• Separate and shared access to the library’s amenities, including public computers, printing services, and internet connectivity.

Why This Matters With fewer than ten first-language speakers of X̱aad Kíl remaining, the Immersion Lab is an essential space for preserving and revitalizing the language. The Lab will provide a hub for learners from Haida Gwaii and beyond to immerse themselves in X̱aad Kíl, ensuring its survival for future generations.

By integrating language preservation into the library, this project represents a new model for cultural collaboration and Indigenous language revitalization within public spaces. VIRL is honored to support this initiative and hopes it will inspire similar projects across Canada.

Our Partners: With Thanks

Thank you to our valued partners: the Village of Masset, Old Massett Village Council, Xaad Kíl Née (Haida Language Office), the North Coast Regional District, Gwaii Trust Society, and Northern Development Initiatives Trust. Your support has been instrumental in making this vision a reality.

Haw’aa!