Future site of new central library to be local and national destination
At a ceremony held today, Mayor Jim Watson and The Honourable Catherine McKenna, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, on behalf of The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage, with Councillor Tim Tierney, Chair of the Ottawa Public Library Board, dedicated the future home of a joint facility shared by the Ottawa Public Library and Library and Archives Canada. Dignitaries unveiled a sign designating the site at the corner of Albert Street and Commissioner Street.
In 2017, City Council and the Ottawa Public Library Board approved partnering with Library and Archives Canada to build a new joint facility, which will serve as a national institution, a city-wide resource, and a community gathering space.
Located at the eastern edge of LeBreton Flats, the new facility will be located near homes and businesses, as well as green spaces, including the Garden of the Provinces. In addition, light rail will figure prominently into access to this new facility, as Pimisi Station is less than 300 metres away.
Pedestrian access will be improved with planned road and intersection modifications along the Albert and Slater corridor. These will facilitate movement and support integration with the Central Business District and residential neighbourhoods to the east and south.
This unique partnership will provide the Ottawa Public Library and Library and Archives Canada with a unique, state-of-the-art facility that brings together the creative services of a public library and the public services of a national library and archives for a richer customer experience.
Expected to open in 2024, this new facility will be a modern, iconic building and destination that will be designed by a renowned architectural team working with the City and the public on the look, feel and user experience of the building.
Quotes
“The new central library will benefit residents of Ottawa and visitors for generations to come. It will be an important hub in our city and an anchor for the whole community. Our collaboration with Library and Archives Canada will create a civic and national institution where residents can gather, learn, be inspired, and connect with the world and each other.”
Mayor Jim Watson, City of Ottawa
“Canada’s history and heritage are irreplaceable treasures that we must preserve with the utmost respect. This new joint facility will be a building of which all Canadians can be proud. It will be an invaluable resource for those seeking knowledge—or those just looking to curl up with a good book.”
The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage
“This new facility in the heart of Ottawa is an excellent example of the partnership and co-operation between federal and municipal institutions that is a priority for our government. This collaboration will allow us to showcase artifacts highlighting Canada’s history and will make visiting the new central library a richer experience for local residents and visitors to the nation’s capital alike.”
The Honourable Catherine McKenna, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Member of Parliament (Ottawa Centre)
“This new facility will be a community gathering space here in Ottawa, bringing people together to learn and exchange ideas. We’re excited to collaborate with Library and Archives Canada to provide innovative services and a rich customer experience in a modern space.”
Councillor Tim Tierney, Chair, Ottawa Public Library Board