The Impact of a New Central Library
A renewed Central Library would benefit more than library users.
It would strengthen the entire library system and contribute to a more active, connected, and welcoming Regina.
A Modern Library
A Library That Moves Us Forward
Investing in a space that helps our community learn, grow and thrive.
Modern libraries are designed for the people they serve.
A modern library must support many different experiences at the same time. It needs to welcome first-time visitors and lifelong users, support quiet study and active programming, create opportunities for community connection, and provide access to technology, learning, and culture.
Modern libraries are designed to adapt. Technology changes, community needs change, and services evolve over time. Flexible spaces, adaptable infrastructure, and thoughtful design allow libraries to continue serving their communities for decades.
Old Style Library Design
Closed Spaces
Rooms are small and divided by walls.
Quiet Focus
Silence is strict. Areas are made for solo study.
Book Storage
Large, heavy shelves hide most books away.
Fixed Furniture
Heavy wooden desks and chairs stay in one spot.
Hidden Tech
Computers are few and sit in a separate computer lab.
Modern Library Design
Flexibility
Spaces can be reconfigured as community needs change.
Accessibility
People of all ages and abilities can use the building easily and independently.
Visibility and Safety
Open sightlines and thoughtful design create a more welcoming environment.
Efficient Use of Space
More of the building is available for public use rather than being consumed by circulation space and building systems.
Adaptability
Infrastructure can accommodate new technologies, services, and programs without major renovations.
Community Use
Spaces support learning, collaboration, culture, gathering, and individual use simultaneously.
Examples of modern Canadian libraries
Saskatoon Central Library
Anticipated opening 2027
Saskatoon’s new downtown Central Library is designed as a modern community hub with flexible spaces, programs, technology, makerspaces, audio and video studios, learning kitchens, and community gathering areas.
Calgary Central Library
Opened 2018
Calgary Central Library includes flexible spaces for reading, learning, gathering, technology, creative work, and community use, and has become a major civic destination in the downtown area.
Halifax Central Library
Opened 2014
Halifax Central Library is an award-winning public space that supports learning, culture, gathering, and civic life while contributing to activity in the surrounding area.
Stanley A. Milner Library (Downtown Edmonton)
Re-opened 2020
Stanley A. Milner Library combines flexible public space with technology, innovation, cultural programming, makerspaces, recording studios, digital conversion services, interactive learning tools, and public gathering spaces.
Ādisōke — Library and Archives Canada and Ottawa Public Library
Anticipated opening 2027
Ādisōke will bring together a public library and a national cultural institution in one shared facility, with spaces for gathering, study, research, creative work, exhibitions, technology, and shared programming.