Bobcaygeon’s new library — more than twice the size of the previous one — is set to open to the public on Monday (November 14).
The new branch of the Kawartha Lakes Public Library, located in the upper level of the municipal service centre at 123 East Street South, has been under construction since January.
At 5,000 square feet, the new branch has more than double the 1,800-square-foot space of the previous branch at 21 Canal Street, and will be better able to meet the needs of the growing community. The larger space means the branch can increase its collection to around 12,000 items.
“Bobcaygeon is one of the fastest growing areas in Kawartha Lakes with over 9,000 residents living in the community,” says Jamie Anderson, CEO and director of Kawartha Lakes Public Library, in a media release. “Bobcaygeon was underserved by the old location, and the new library branch will serve the community for years to come.”
Along with the larger space, the new branch is fully accessible with accessible parking spaces, an entrance ramp, a universal washroom, and accessible public computer and work stations.
The branch has four public computers, as well as a laptop bar where people with mobile devices can work and charge their devices. There are 12 parking spaces dedicated for library patrons.
PDF: New Bobcaygeon library branch floor plan
New Bobcaygeon library branch floor plan
“It has been a long, and at times complicated, journey to get here but we’re thrilled to have created a warm and welcoming space for this incredible community,” says Susan Ferguson, chair of the Kawartha Lakes Public Library board. “Learning and literacy are key values for our library, so having a new branch that provides those opportunities for everyone is essential.
The branch also has a separate programming and meeting room, which will be available for use by the community in the new year when not being used by the library. The meeting room includes a large wall-mounted monitor to which people will be able to connect laptops and tablets for meetings and presentations.
There is ample room in the new branch for seating and study tables.
“With high ceilings, large windows, and inviting lounge areas, the newest addition to the Kawartha Lakes Public Library system is a stunning gathering space for the community,” says Marieke Junkin, manager of public services and programming for Kawartha Lakes Public Library.
The Kawartha Lakes Public Library operates branches in Bethany, Bobcaygeon, Coboconk, Dalton, Dunsford, Fenelon Falls, Kinmount, Kirkfield, Lindsay, Little Britain, Norland, Oakwood, Omemee, and Woodville.
While an official grand opening celebration for the new Bobcaygeon branch is being planned for January, members of the community can visit the new branch starting November 14. The branch will be open 12:30 to 7 p.m. Monday and Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. The branch is closed on Sunday.
The branch’s previous space at 21 Canal Street is co-owned by the City of Kawartha Lakes and the Sheila Boyd Foundation, which operates the Boyd Heritage Museum at the location. The city hopes to use the former library space in a new way while maintaining the historical integrity and community access.
