The Barrie Public Library’s rooftop garden has sprouted into a multi-use programming space.
An essential roofing renovation required some changes, which library staff believes has turned into a plus.
Community engagement manager Sandra Sydor explained some work was required at the downtown branch on Worsley Street, leading to some unique opportunities.
“The city needed to make renovations which impacted the garden, but it also resulted in new tile and flooring," she said.
Now they are able to devote a lot more space to outdoor programs.
"A lot of people come for lunch or to enjoy a coffee and read a magazine," Sydor said. "It is popular with day camps, because it is a contained space for kids. Children’s programs occur in that space and we will be having live entertainment.”
City of Barrie parks and recreation staff maintain the raised bed, which is currently filled with multi-coloured tulips. The flower bed changes with the season.
Flower pots around the patio are maintained by volunteers with the Barrie Garden Club.
An official opening of the rooftop garden will be held Friday, May 31 from 2-4 p.m. with remarks from dignitaries, live music, a terrarium, crafts for children and refreshments.
Sydor says there will be a lot more live music in the future.
"We are partners with the Emerging Musicians Program with the city. Buskers between the ages of 16 and 30 are paid, through the summer, to perform on the streets of Barrie," she said. "They get training as entrepreneurs and taught how to operate a small business, which is really what they are. We will focus some of them as well."
Among future events in the new space will be:
* Live music during the Barrie Jazz Blues Festival on June 8, 9, 15 and 16.
* National Indigenous People’s Day Storytime on June 8
* Bird nest building on July 30.
The Rooftop Garden is open during regular library hours.
For more information, visit barrielibrary.ca.
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