Shovels are expected to be in the ground before year’s end on a new 5,000-square-foot library in Chemainus.
The $2.7-million building will be built on a site once occupied by the now-dismantled fire hall, at 9796 Willow St. It will replace the smaller 1,200-square-foot library now serving the community of 3,000, between Crofton and Ladysmith.
“This bright and open space will fundamentally change the way the community of Chemainus experiences and interacts with their library,” said Vancouver Island Regional Library’s executive director Rosemary Bonanno in a statement.
“Whether browsing the collections, experiencing the latest technologies, pursuing passions, connecting with friends, or conducting business, the new library will quickly become the hub of this energetic and dynamic community.”
A construction tender for the building was published Friday, with a closing date of Oct. 31.
The building is designed with large windows to let in plenty of light. Similar to other new libraries, it will have a fireplace and lounge area.
This is the latest project being developed by the library system, which has 39 branches serving 430,000 people from Haida Gwaii to the Central Coast and Vancouver Island. The Greater Victoria Public Library is a separate system.
Vancouver Island Regional Library members will have access to all of the collection.
A larger collection with new materials will greet people when the new Chemainus branch opens, said David Carson, spokesman for the Island system.
Features in the new library include window seats, more staff, longer hours, new programs, more public computers, a children’s area, a laptop bar, study space, and a multipurpose room that can be booked.
The original budget was $2.25 million, which rose to $2.7 million because of the busy construction industry. Costs have increased and there is limited labour available, the library said in a statement.
Total cost includes everything from construction to high-tech infrastructure and furniture.
The library system is also planning a $6-million library in Sooke that will be built in a round shape. As well, the Sidney-North Saanich branch is undergoing a $2-million renovation.
