The Frances Morrison Central Library would be too costly to renovate so the Saskatoon Public Library (SPL) says it wants to look elsewhere to satisfy its users.
Saskatoon’s central library opened in 1966 and is currently non-compliant with all significant building codes, with identified deficiencies dating back over 17 years.
SPL said even if a substantial renovation was possible, it would still not solve lack of space and overcrowding issues.
Frances Morrison Central Library was designed to serve a population of 115,000 and house under 100,000 books. SPL said membership has quadrupled and there is almost three times the number of books on its shelves since it opened over half a century ago.
A public consultation initiative called “SPL Connects” has been launched to understand what people want in a new central library.
“People use libraries differently now than they did 50 years ago. SPL wants to be able to meet the needs of our patrons now and into the future, and a new central library will help us achieve that goal,” SPL CEO Carol Cooley said in a press release.
“A new central library will benefit the entire city through enhanced service delivery, positive economic impact, and it will help fuel the downtown revitalization.”
People are encouraged to share their vision until April 15 through an online survey, pop-up consultations and an open house event on March 28.
The information gathered will then be used to inform the business case the Saskatoon Public Library Board will take to city council for approval.
SPL said the project will be paid for by drawing from the library’s reserve fund, through the library levy, and fundraising.
Central libraries serve as the largest and most prominent branch, offering specialized services as well as being the central administrative office.