A journey through Ottawa’s past, present and future
If you want to learn about the National Capital Region’s history, Living Ottawa is the place to go. Step inside this space to celebrate the city’s past, present, and future.
Located on the second floor, this Ottawa Public Library (OPL) service contains tons of historical materials. In this area, visitors will find books and pictures all about how Ottawa used to be and how it’s changing now. They can also look at maps that show how the city has grown over the years.
But this space isn’t just about the past; it’s a vibrant hub where the voice of today resonates loud and clear. Through interactive displays and listening stations, visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the stories of contemporary Ottawa. They can listen to stories from people who live here now, read books by local authors, and learn about exciting things happening in our city right now.
Displays with changing topics will also be installed in this area to highlight certain parts of Ottawa’s past, such as LeBreton Flats or Indigenous history.
Guided by helpful librarian staff, visitors can also explore the reference collections or browse through the maps. The space itself reflects a spirit of renewal with bright, inviting interiors designed to welcome newer and younger audiences.
The comfortable lounge area invites visitors to linger and explore, while computer stations and databases offer tools for in-depth research and genealogy exploration.
And of course, no visit to the Living Ottawa Room would be complete without a journey through its impressive map collection. From vintage maps to contemporary cartography, each map offers a window into Ottawa’s geographical and cultural landscape, inviting visitors to embark on their own explorations.
Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about our city, the Living Ottawa room is the perfect place to explore, learn, and have fun!