New Main Branch Library: Building a Community where education meets civil engagement

By Casandra Turnbull

The New Main Library Branch is not just about building a new facility but building a community where everyone is welcome. Where you don’t have to spend money but can still access a variety of programs and services to fit your everyday needs or fulfill your growing curiosity It’s about incorporating as many arts, culture and heritage experiences as possible while maximizing the use of a historic space

As technology changes rapidly, libraries have evolved to keep pace with the many changes in society, says Kelly Bernstein, Chief Executive Officer for the County of Brant Public Library (CBPL) “Digital literacy is quickly becoming an essential skill, and we are here to support that, especially for people who can’t afford technology of their own,” Bernstein explains “Our goal is to give residents the library they deserve, with modern services and amenities.”

This means a place to access your email, make photocopies, print a document, or even learn about AI, robotics or experience virtual reality

The New Main Library Branch will give residents access to numerous features that currently are not available at any other branch in the County of Brant These features include a makerspace, café, quiet study rooms, a community kitchen, outdoor programming space, a teen gaming area, electric bicycle charging stations, electric vehicle charging stations and access to a historic opera hall.

In addition to these features, the new 27,800 square foot facility will satisfy the increasing importance of being a place for connection and belonging. It will offer a place for new parents to bring their babies to enjoy songs and stories, while making connections with other parents It will offer more space for programs that are at capacity now in their current branch and it will open the door for new programs for residents of all ages, new hands-on art activities, more author readings, lecture series and book club meetings. The possibilities are endless, and the time is now, said Bernstein.

There’s no arguing the value a library brings to the community In 2023 the CBPL provided over $15 6 million in value, an estimated $396.69 per resident or $1,059.62 per household (see more details on the CBPL’s contribution to the community on page 7) A new Main Branch will help achieve its mandate to enhance arts, culture, educational experience and foster civil engagement but it will also serve to maximize a very historic space, opening the doors to new revenue streams in the form of headline events, wedding rentals, and private bookings.

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To the left, a rendering of the future Makerspace at the new library and an author event in the Bawcutt Centre. If you want to learn more about the new Library Main Branch project? Click here.