Renovations proposed for West K library

Garden City

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 24/01/2024 (710 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The City of Winnipeg is currently conducting public consultations for expanding and renovating the West Kildonan Library at 365 Jefferson Ave. Three options for enhancing services at the library were presented at a recent open house, ranging from minimal accessibility upgrades to a sizeable expansion of the space.

The Jan. 9 event was busy and well attended – there was even a lineup to get in. Many library users and community members reviewed the proposed options and provided feedback and ideas on what was presented. I was pleased to attend the alongside fellow library supporters, eager to see investments in the historic Jefferson Avenue branch.

A local architecture firm, 1×1 Architecture, has been hired by the City of Winnipeg to study enhancements to the building. Its team of experts was on hand to answer questions and gather residents’ feedback on how well the proposed designs met the community’s needs, or on which areas of the project which could be further improved.

It was clear that many residents — Including me — were drawn to the third option, which includes an expansion of the west side of the library. This addition would allow for a large, glass indoor reading room and creation of a larger children’s area on the main floor. It also includes accessibility and convenience upgrades, allowing the heritage building to adapt to the needs of a modern library. The renovations would respect the original design, while restoring architectural elements that are important to the historic branch.

Expanding and renovating this branch has generated a lot of support and excitement from community members. As the city’s budget process rolls out, it will be important to see council earmark the necessary money for this project.

To learn more about the renovations for West Kildonan Library, or to provide feedback you can visit engage.winnipeg.ca or email the project manager Travis Cooke at travis@1x1architecture..

I look forward to investment in renovations for our local library.