Renovated library for Sidney/North Saanich
August 20, 2018 | Sidney / North Saanich
Monday, August 20, 2018, Sidney, BC: Exciting renovations are coming to the Sidney/North Saanich branch of Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL). Once complete, the current branch will be transformed into a state-of-the-art facility that will cater to the evolving library needs on the Saanich Peninsula.
“The renovated Sidney/North Saanich library will fast become a treasured community resource for families, students, seniors, newcomers, and everyone in between,” says VIRL’s Executive Director, Rosemary Bonanno. “We may be renovating the existing space, but it will feel like a brand-new library for everyone who walks through the doors. This is an exciting time to be a library user south of the Malahat.”
Once complete, the building’s infrastructure will have updated electrical, lighting, HVAC, windows, and more. The library’s interior will also be refreshed, made more accessible, and modernized.
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
- Accessible customer service desk
- New air conditioning system
The project’s budget of $2 million includes all aspects of the renovation. The Town of Sidney will finance the cost of accessible washrooms and other upgrades to the building’s common area.
VIRL is currently accepting bids for a contractor, with construction anticipated to start in September. The projected completion timeline is slated for June 2019.
During the renovation, a temporary library at Unit 1A – 2353 Bevan Avenue (Bevan Square) will offer holds pick up, public computers, WiFi and a small collection. Sidney/North Saanich cardholders will also have access to VIRL’s entire floating collection and digital resources for the duration of the renovation.
Proposed renderings of the renovated space are included with this release. More information will be provided as it becomes available.
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For more Information
David Carson
Director, Corporate Communications and Strategic Initiatives
250.753.1154 ex 248
Cell: 250.327.3651
dcarson@virl.bc.ca
Fireplace lounge
Help Desk and lounge
Public computer stations and interior
