Pages are turning for a new Barrie Public Library branch in the city’s northwest corner.
City council approved a motion Jan. 29 that a capital project entitled Barrie North West Boutique Library be established, with initial funding of $150,000.
Funding will come from the city’s development charge reserve to allow for corporate facilities staff, in consultation with library staff, to undertake the initial design and required preliminary work, including potential locations. They would report back to city councillors once complete.
The funding will also cover design, layout, community consultations and demographic analysis to address the needs of the 26,000 residents in the area, including around 5,000 youth.
“We’re committed to ensuring library services are accessible to all residents,” Barrie Public Library CEO Lauren Jessop said in a release.
The new northwest branch would provide literacy support, programming for all ages, computers, Wi-Fi and community space for work and study.
Officials are considering a smaller library, similar to the Holly branch, which opened in 2022 on Essa Road and has been popular.
Community consultations will begin soon, with updates to be shared on the library’s website and social media.
