One of the exciting projects underway right now here in Halton Hills is the new branch of the Acton Library. The new branch is being built beside the old one on a scenic site nestled amongst the trees at River Street and main Street North. A site we heard from the people that they wanted to see the library remain. I agree.
The Acton library branch was built as a centennial project in commemoration of Canada’s 100 Birthday in 1967. Like a lot of buildings at the time it was built with a entrance way and then 2 sets of stairs going up and down. This design of building is difficult for us to renovate and to make accessible for people with accessibility issues.
We had a girl from Acton come to our Council meeting and plead with us to make sure we made the building fully accessible. Sidney Weaver, who is an ambassador for the March of Dimes asked us to consider not only her needs with accessibility, but also young Moms with strollers, seniors and everyone in the community. She wanted the library to be fully accessible. Council listened and the Acton Library will be in compliance with the OADA (Ontarians with Disability Act) as well as it will be a place of civic pride and distinctive here in town.
The funding came from the Stimulus Fund set up by the Federal and Provincial Governments to help keep Canada working during the economic recession that started in 2008. Originally the funding was 1/3 for each partner with the Towns share being 1.8 Million for a 4.1 Million dollar project. Our share is a bit more then 1/3 as we had to incorporate the OADA requirements as well as some work for the conservation authorities with a retaining wall. This library will also be built to a LEEDS Silver and will be using a geothermal heat and cooling system.
The library has a banner across the door stating “New Acton Library…Believe it” I talked to a retired library worker and she said “I never thought I would see it in my lifetime..” The branch was originally scheduled to be replaced in around 2013 but with the Georgetown branch and the need for arenas it probably would have been pushed back.
I can't wait for this! As a mom with 2 young kids, I actually stopped going to the library with the kids because the stairs were just too much for us to handle (go in, up one flight to return the old books, down two flights to pick new books, up two flights to check out new books, then back down a flight to leave - all while carrying a bucket car seat and holding a toddler's hand)
ReplyDeleteThis new library is much needed and will be appreciated!