New Central Library Site Revealed in Paris
Casandra Turnbull
Managing Editor
After months of discussion over the future of library services in Paris, the location of the proposed new Central Branch Library has finally been revealed.
The County of Brant Public Library announced the new facility is planned for 199 Grand River St. N., a 3.7-acre property near the entrance to downtown Paris that was recently acquired by the County of Brant with council's approval.
The announcement marks a significant milestone for a project that has generated considerable community interest and discussion at council as officials weigh the need for a modern library against the multimillion-dollar cost of building one.
The property was selected from dozens of potential sites considered for the new branch, according to a press release issued by the County of Brant Public Library late last Thursday. Its proximity to downtown was an important factor, reflecting public consultation that showed a strong preference for keeping the library in a central and walkable location. The property, located close to the now vacant Penmaravian house, was once home to the Paris Child Care centre. There’s no word yet on whether the Victorian style home currently located on the property will be demolished or incorporated into the design for the new main library branch.
Located within walking distance of schools and retirement communities, the Grand River Street North property also offers opportunities for outdoor and green spaces as well as ample parking.
An updated needs assessment previously presented to council found 65 per cent of public consultation participants preferred the new library remain close to the downtown core. The assessment recommended a site within one kilometre of downtown Paris, with at least 57 parking spaces and enough space for a minimum 26,250-square-foot facility.
"For many years, our community has imagined what a new library could make possible. This location brings that vision one important step closer to becoming something people can see, shape and ultimately experience,” said Fred Gladding, chair of the County of Brant Public Library Board. “This is an exciting milestone, but what makes the opportunity particularly meaningful is that the community will have a role in helping us shape what comes next."
The site announcement follows council's approval of Phase 1 of the Central Branch Library Project Plan in July. At the time, council authorized $2.6 million from previously approved library and Bawcutt Centre project funding for property acquisition, site analysis, environmental and technical due diligence, project management and architectural concept design.
With the property now secured, the project will move into site planning and concept design.
The proposed library would replace the existing Paris branch, which has served the community since 1904. Library officials say the 122-year-old building no longer provides the space, accessibility or infrastructure required to meet current and future needs.
The existing branch receives more than 70,000 in-person visits annually, hosts hundreds of library and community events and serves as the administrative headquarters for the library's digital and outreach services.
When Phase 1 was presented to council this summer, the project was expected to proceed through four phases, beginning with site selection and concept design before moving into detailed engineering and planning and, subject to future council approvals, construction.
The latest project timeline anticipates construction taking place from late 2027 into 2028, with the new library expected to open in winter 2029.
The total project budget for all phases is currently estimated at between $23 million and $28 million. The figures remain preliminary and future phases will require council approval.
Library CEO Kelly Bernstein emphasized the preliminary nature of the project's financial projections when the plan came before council in July.
"This is a high-level budget because that reflects the stage of the process we are at."
At that time, Bernstein said the numbers would become more refined as concept design and technical studies were completed. She also told council the funding strategy was not expected to rely on senior government grants, with development charges, fundraising, debentures and other sources identified as potential funding mechanisms.
Mayor David Bailey said securing a site allows the project to take another step forward.
“We are pleased to see this important project moving forward with a site now selected for the new Central Branch,” said Bailey. “Our libraries offer valuable programs, services and resources for County residents of all ages, and this new location will provide the space and amenities needed to serve our growing community for years to come. I look forward to hearing input from residents as we move forward with this exciting project.”
Community consultation will continue as planning progresses. Residents will be invited to provide input on how they envision using the new library and what features would make the facility meaningful to them. Details about those consultation opportunities are expected to be released in the coming months.
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