Library board votes to relocate Central Library services

The Regina Public Library Board of Directors voted at its regular public meeting on Tuesday to proceed with a temporary relocation of Central Library services.

The vote was taken due to concerns with failing building infrastructure and its effects on business continuity.

“The Board has determined that the risks of staying outweigh the benefits, and a temporary relocation downtown is the most prudent way forward,” Marj Gavigan, Chair of the RPL Board of Directors, said. “Remaining in the current building puts service delivery at risk and isn’t an effective use of taxpayer money.”

The Board voted last September to build new with preference for the current location – a decision based on the conclusions put forward in the Needs Assessment and Project Plan (NAPP) for Central Library renewal. “Central Library services will have to be temporarily relocated as construction of a new building advances,” Gavigan said. “We are simply moving forward with our relocation sooner than anticipated.”

When considering the amount of investment that is needed to maintain the current facility, moving to a temporary lease location provides more value for dollar, and removes the risk of unplanned closures.

The Board expects the move will take place in fall 2024. Until then, service will continue out of the current building. Short-term fixes, such as patching the roof, will be completed to maintain the building until the move.

The current Central building will remain standing for the time being and, once the library has relocated, will be decommissioned.

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