Kingston’s Kingscourt Library closes its doors for the final time

The Kingscourt Branch of the Kingston and Frontenac Public Library will close its doors for good on Saturday September 16th.

Laura Carter, the director of Branch Experience with Kingston and Frontenac Public Library says it’s a bitter-sweet moment as the 58-year-old facility closes and they prepare for the opening of their new location in the Rideau Heights Community Centre.

“It really is the end of an era and lots of people have been coming here for generations. But we’re opening a new branch attached to the Rideau Heights Community Centre and we’re really excited about that. But unfortunately, as part of our planning process and providing library service in Kingston — this branch had to close.”

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The Limestone District School Board purchased the Kingscourt branch property in 2016 and will turn it into a sports field for the new high school being constructed next door.

Adam McCluskey, the manager of recreation facilities with the City of Kingston, says the funds from the sale of the property are being used to construct the new branch, set to open further North, within the Rideau Heights Community Centre early next year.

“The location was chosen as part of the rejuvenation of the North End, McCluskey said. “So, we’re looking to create a community hub and it’s really nice that we’re able to partner with the school board and attach it to the school so they have access to a full-size gymnasium. We’re very lucky that we’re able to get a library in as well. It’ll be a true community hub for that area and will have a great impact on the neighbourhood.”

To bridge the gap for library services, a pop-up library will set up three days a week at the Memorial Centre, Kingston Police Headquarters Community Room and Rideau Heights Public School.

“Staff will be there with a small collection of books, people can pick up reserves, access the computer, access library services that way,” Carter said.

To commemorate the Kingscourt Branch, there will be a closing celebration with a musical performance on Saturday.