Library still closed; sponsors receive sneak peek
By Miriam Ostermann, Associate Editor
Miriam Ostermann Photo
Nearly 50 donors – totalling $6,000 in contributions – were invited to the event on Nov. 18 that revealed for the first time the library’s much-needed facelift.
With 8,500 sq. ft. of space and a healthy $700,000 budget, the facility now offers quiet areas, proper staff accommodations, an area to display art, increased seating possibilities, a larger programming room, updated teen and children’s area, and even a fireplace and water fountain.
“It’s better than I expected; it’s brighter it feels fresh and new, and feels like a homey space,” said Rachel Dick-Hughes, director of library services for the Strathmore Municipal Library.
“We had a lot of great volunteers who helped us and it was a long process. I think the biggest change is that it’s more of a community space; lots of gathering spaces, lots of places to sit and study, places to play games and do puzzles, and just sit and read with your kids. We’re hoping through the rest of the space we can accommodate everybody’s needs as much as possible.”
Nine staff members and five volunteers worked non-stop for a two-week period to prepare the space, including arranging 25,000 items back onto the shelves. While the staff is keen on starting to sign books out, the lack of an occupancy permit and small additions, such as bathroom stall walls, internet access, etc., has caused a delay in the library re-opening.
But Carmen Erison, assistant director to library services of the municipal library, said the changes will be worth the wait.
“I know there are delays, and I know there are people chomping at the bit to get their books,” said Erison. “These delays, although I will admit have been difficult for the public, have really allowed us time to make this space perfect for the public so that when you walk in the door opening day, the first words to come out of your mouth will be ‘wow.’
“I love it. I walk in here and just simply smile. To see a space that’s going to be such a vibrant and youthful space for our community really warms my heart.”
Almost a year ago, James Thackray, Town of Strathmore’s chief administrative officer, walked into Erison’s office – which has now been removed and provides an open reception area – and offered the library the space which was then occupied by the town’s Family and Community Support Services (FCSS).
Previously, the library operated in a 4,432 sq. ft. space that failed to meet the provincial standards of what was expected when providing an essential level of service for a population of over 10,000. According to these standards, the town was only functioning at 57 per cent. While the increase in space to over 8,000 sq. ft. bumped that figure to 95 per cent and provided a 10-year plan, it also allowed for additional space to house the library’s 378 programs offered throughout the year, as well as the addition of a meeting room, a large program room, a receiving room, storage and a lunch room for staff. The meeting room and program room will be available to rent out to the public with occupancy numbers still unavailable until the Strathmore Fire Department completes their assessment.
With only necessary minor changes still required, the staff hopes to show off the space to the public soon.
“It’s basically been 10 months since the town came to us and said, ‘we’re moving the FCSS, how would you like the space?’ And then in 10 months to go from an idea of a library that’s going to properly serve the needs of the people of Strathmore is an incredible accomplishment from the staff and everyone who’s been involved in this project,” said Jim Greer, Strathmore Municipal Library board president. “It’s been a long time coming, and it’s really going to help us better serve the needs of the people of Strathmore and that’s the goal always. So, thank you to the town, thank you to the construction workers, thank you to everybody that’s been involved. It’s been a long time needed and now we just have to put it over the finish line.”