County approves Aboyne library closure

by Kris Svela

GUELPH

The final page on the Aboyne Library is about to be turned.

At its June 28 meeting, county council approved the closure of the library, with services transferred to the Elora branch and the soon-to-be-renovated Fergus branch. The closure will also see the transfer of the library headquarters to Fergus.

Chief Librarian Murray McCabe recommended the closure in a report to council. McCabe said the move would improve library services and Aboyne staff would be transferred within the two-branch system.

“As the friendly and knowledgeable staff now working at Aboyne would be providing service at the Fergus and Elora libraries, patrons will continue to receive quality service,” McCabe said in his report.

“The duplication of collections between the three libraries in Centre Wellington would be greatly reduced. The physical space provided at Aboyne would be replaced by the new addition at Fergus. As most people drive to Aboyne from the surrounding communities, their trips for library services would be shortened. Operating costs in the area of utilities, computer services and general upkeep would be reduced or eliminated.”

McCabe suggested the Aboyne location could be used for other public purposes.

The chief librarian suggested operating hours in a two-branch system could be expanded along with programs and outreach services to housebound and local retirement homes.

July 6, 2012