RPL researching other locations for new Central Library building

RPL today released an Expression of Interest (EOI) inviting property developers to provide information about potential partnerships and locations for the new Central Library building.

“We know that the downtown market has changed considerably in the recent past, and we want an idea of what else might be available,” Jeff Barber, Library Director and CEO, said. “A new build at the current location is not off the table, but it’s in everyone’s best interest to research all possibilities.”

Information gathered from the EOI will support the Board in finalizing a location for the new build. “There are many factors that come into play when deciding a location for a main library,” Barber said. “We need to do right by our community in balancing the best location with the best value for money.”

The success of a modern central library in revitalizing a city’s downtown has been proven time and again, with recent examples such as Calgary, Halifax, and Edmonton demonstrating their worth.

“This is an important building for the health of our community, and we need to be making careful, strategic decisions at every step,” Barber said.

The EOI will remain open until April 5 when RPL will begin its review of the information.

For more information on the Central Library Renewal project, visit central.reginalibrary.ca.