Reimagined Sidney/North Saanich Library Set to Reopen
May 13, 2019 | Sidney / North Saanich
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sidney, BC – The shelves are stocked, the paint is dry, the public computers are hooked up, and the remodeling is complete — the Sidney/North Saanich branch of Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) is ready to reopen to the public on Tuesday, May 21 at 10am!
“When the doors open and people see for themselves all the upgrades and improvements to their beloved Sidney/North Saanich branch, I know they will experience the same excitement that I enjoyed when I saw it for the first time,” says VIRL’s Executive Director Rosemary Bonanno. “The new space is flexible, accessible, modern, and welcoming — it offers the best in 21st Century library services and amenities for library users on the Saanich Peninsula.”
The renovations include updated electrical, lighting, HVAC, windows, and more, as well as updates to the space that make it more accessible and modern.
Specific upgrades include:
- Remodeled youth and adult sections
- Fireplace lounge area
- Additional computers and a new laptop bar
- Additional study and lounge seating
- New flooring, lighting, and paint
- New furniture and shelving
- Improved layout to accommodate wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers
- Enclosed book-drop
- Assistive computer station for people with vision, hearing, and other impairments
- Accessible customer service desk
The project’s budget of $2 million encompasses all aspects of the renovation. The Town of Sidney financed the cost of accessible washrooms and other upgrades to the building’s common area.
To find out more about the branch, check out its events calendar for upcoming programming, and visit the branch page for hours, location, and more.
Grand Opening celebrations are planned for Saturday, June 15, which will include speeches, a ribbon cutting, and entertainment. Stay tuned for details.
The temporary space will remain open until the end of day on Sunday, May 19.
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For more information
David Carson, Director, Corporate Communications and Strategic Initiatives
Direct: 250.753.1154 ex 248
Cell: 250.327.3651
Email: dcarson@virl.bc.ca