Wellington County library board chairman Rob Black believes “Andrew Carnegie would be proud of the (Fergus library) as it has been rebuilt.”
He made those comments in front of hundreds of residents and well-wishers at the official reopening of the library on March 31.
“I am privileged to join with the community to help re-open the Fergus library branch,” said Black.
“I’m absolutely delighted with the changes that have happened over the past 16 months and also for the new opportunity for patrons to learn, be entertained, play and socialize. The investment we have made in this library and the county’s library system is highly regarded by many library boards and communities throughout the province.”
He explained the county has “tripled the size of the building to 15,000 square feet,” making the Fergus branch “the largest in the Wellington County library system.”
Black said this has increased space for the reading collection, study and meeting space – “all with an amazing view of the Grand River.” He said outside there is space for readings, concerts and gatherings.
Black noted former warden Brad Whitcombe once described libraries as the civic foundation of a community and, “That is absolutely what this library is all about.”
County officials said the new design maintains the heritage aspects of the original Carnegie Library and “allows a seamless integration between the existing and new portions of the library.” The renovation and addition to the Fergus library adheres to the county’s Green Legacy building standards and meets the Emerald Level of Certification, the county’s highest standard, officials add.
The branch also includes:
– a large public meeting room;
– more public computers and WiFi access throughout the building;
– library shelving and furniture that allows for considerable flexibility in the use of floor space when hosting author events and other special gatherings;
– reading and study space with a view of the Grand River; and
– open space that can accommodate public readings, concerts and gatherings with access to the Grand River and Templin Gardens.
On Jan. 29, 1908, the Carnegie Foundation provided a grant for the building of a public library in Fergus. The official opening was held Feb. 9, 1911. The design of the original building was created by W.A. Mahoney, who did the plans for a total of 14 Carnegie libraries in Ontario. At the time, his design for Fergus was praised by the Carnegie Foundation and other decision makers of the period.
Warden George Bridge said that he lived in Fergus when he was in Grade 8 and his father was vice principal of the Fergus High School for one year.
Later Bridge was manager of the Fergus Canada Trust branch for three or four years. “I have fond thoughts of Fergus and how the downtown has kept vibrant.
“Today we are reopening the doors of the historic Fergus library – marking an end to construction work,” said Bridge.
“Not only have we expanded this library, we have modernized and revitalized it.”
He said the county appreciates the patience of the community – particularly the downtown businesses.
Even with the improvements, Bridge said the library still embraces the original Carnegie history and heritage.
Bridge said Carnegie believed libraries had a role to play in social and educational development.
“People may tell you that libraries have seen their day – especially now that you can pretty much Google everything,” said Bridge.
“Let me tell you that libraries are experiencing a renaissance these days.
“Libraries are now becoming the new central cultural hub for our communities, enhancing the quality of life that is so important to us. Once you step inside, you will agree that this library branch will serve this community very well and is one everyone can be proud of for many years to come.”
Representing Centre Wellington was councillor Mary Lloyd.
She said it hasn’t always been easy, but she believes the original library also wasn’t an easy path.
“Here we are … we have the downtown jewel. This is going to transform and recreate what we hope to be a cultural centre in the downtown core of Fergus.”
She hoped the community will enjoy and appreciate these facilities and thanked those involved for their investment in downtown Fergus.
“Library staff are as excited as our patrons about the renovation,” said chief librarian Murray McCabe.
“The renovation and expansion will allow staff the space to deliver programs and services on par with the other modern library branches in the county.”
McCabe thanked the county for its commitment to libraries within the county, adding, “Nowhere in Ontario is the support on this level.”
McCabe said, “Andrew Carnegie would be very happy with this building. He provided the seed investment in the early 1900s and his idea was to provide access to information for the common person.”
The $5-million library project took 16 months through a difficult winter, to ensure it meets county and provincial standards.
