July 12, 2024
The Central Library Renewal Project: Where it’s at, what’s next, and what’s going on – July 12, 2024
July 12, 2024
We are thrilled with City Council’s July 9 decision to commit to debt financing and a dedicated mill rate request (in principle) to fund a new Central Library. This project has been a longtime in the making, and there’s lots more to do. Read on to find out more.
Background
In September 2022, the Regina Public Library (RPL) Board of Directors voted in favour of constructing a new library building. This decision came after years and years of studying issues with the current building and what it would take to create something that would meet current and future community needs.
The vision for a new Central Library is not just about a building: it’s about creating a dynamic space that reflects the evolving needs of Regina’s diverse population. A space to support information seekers; a community hub and a free, welcoming environment that enables everyone to discover, learn, and connect.
Recent research
In early 2024, RPL put together cost estimates for the size of library building we believe will adequately meet the current and future needs of our city. That library would be approx. 125,000 square feet and would cost between $125M and $150M.
At the same time, RPL began researching options for partnerships to help construct a new building. There was a lot of interest from local developers to collaborate and build something dynamic. However, potential partners were reluctant to commit to the project without confirmation of funding from the City of Regina.
RPL also conducted research into developing a fundraising campaign for a new Central. However, potential supporters were also reluctant to commit to the project without confirmation of funding from the City of Regina.
City Council
In spring 2024, Regina Public Library visited City Council with a formal request to help fund a new library. The request included:
- Debt funding of approximately $92M to $119M, which could be borrowed in portions as needed from 2026 to 2029; and
- A dedicated Central Library mill rate increase of 5.5% each year over five years, starting in 2025 to fund some initial work in 2025 and pay back the debt. This increase would cost the average homeowner about 92 cents more per month on their property tax bill.
(Other funding sources will include RPL’s reserves, and an anticipated capital fundraising campaign with a goal to raise $3M. Funding from other levels of government will also be pursued.)
Much to our delight, City Council agreed on July 9, 2024 to support the project by approving both the mill rate request (in principle) and the debt funding.
Because we have funding approval, we now have the assurance we need for the project to move forward.
What’s next
The next steps in the project will include initiating a procurement process. This process will invite potential partners to submit proposals on how they can contribute to the construction of the new library, whether it’s a standalone building or a multi-purpose structure, and whether it remains at the corner of 12th and Lorne Street or moves elsewhere downtown.
The procurement process is expected to take about 16 months and cost approximately $1.5M. Once completed, the RPL Board will review the proposals, decide on the best course of action, and then report back to City Council with a more concrete budget.
After that, the design phase for the new building can begin!
What about renovating the current building?
While there has been some discussion in the media and elsewhere of renovating the current building, the Board determined from its research that building new was a wiser investment.
You can learn more about the building issues by browsing the many reports we have received throughout the years from architects and engineers.
You can learn more about the range of building options considered by the Board and the rationale for choosing to build new in the Needs Assessment and Project Plan.
A new landmark for Regina
With the construction of this new facility, RPL is not just building walls and stacking shelves with books, we’re crafting a future where knowledge and opportunity are accessible to all.
Envision a place that draws people in, not just for the love of reading, but for the experience of connecting with others and engaging in a diverse array of activities. This library will be a dynamic space that reflects the evolving needs of Regina’s population, and offers a safe and welcoming environment for discovery, learning, and connection.
The library will act as a catalyst for downtown revitalization, attracting visitors who will support local businesses and boost the economy.
It will be a hub where everyone, regardless of background or ability, can come together to share ideas, learn new skills, and participate in the collective growth of our city.