Confederation Centre Public Library will return to regular hours next week with a bright new look following the completion of Phase 1 of a renovation program. For the last month, the library has been operating under reduced hours to facilitate construction.
"I am extremely pleased with the new renovated facility, and I am sure that staff and patrons will enjoy the improvements," said Minister responsible for Libraries, Elmer MacFadyen. "I would like to express my thanks to staff and patrons for their support and patience throughout the construction process. I am confident that the new facility will offer a more enjoyable atmosphere for working, reading and learning."
Patrons returning to the library will see fresh new colours on the walls, a new patterned carpet, and a return to the original layout of the shelving. Less visible changes are new steps and upgrades to electrical and mechanical systems. Library staff helped plan the changes and have had the massive task of moving every book and piece of furniture at least twice in the past month. Phase two of the project – to take place in coming months – will see improved lighting for the structure as well as new computer desks, check-out area and other furnishings.
Kathleen Eaton, Chief Librarian, has said that the public has been very patient during this part of the renovation process and that many people have expressed their amazement with the changes to the 38-year-old facility. "People can't get over how different the place looks with more colour, and they are excited to see a familiar space take on new dimensions."
Eaton's comments are echoed by Confederation Centre's CEO, David MacKenzie, "The changes in colour and layout really show off the architecture of the building. It is now like a new structure. Confederation Centre Public Library is one of the busiest spaces in the building, and we are really pleased to see it brought up to the standards of the rest of the Centre."
Funds for this phase of the renovations were provided by the Province of Prince Edward Island and by the federal Department of Canadian Heritage as part of a general upgrade to the building. Additional funds for some of the phase two changes will be provided by the Trustees of the Legislative and Public Library.
Summer hours begin on June 1, with the library being open from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. in the evening on Tuesdays through Thursday, 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. on Sunday.
The Confederation Centre Public Library is part of the Provincial Library Service and is supported by the Province's Department of Community and Cultural Affairs.