Wellington County council has approved new concept designs for renovations to the Carnegie library in Palmerston.
Architect Lloyd Grinham presented the plan, which had already been endorsed by the seniors, information and heritage committee, to councillors at the Nov. 27 meeting.
Grinham noted the upper level of the library, which contains a long-unused theatre complete with seats, a raked floor and a raised stage, “posed quite a challenge for us.”
The space was required for library services and, he noted, public consultations made it clear “there is already a theatre in town.”
The floor, including the stage area, will be leveled to facilitate barrier-free access, though an archway will maintain the appearance of a stage area as a nod to the building’s heritage. The theatre area will be converted to contain an adult collection, study desks and a lounge area, but Grinham noted the area could still be used for “small-scale performances.”
The lower floor will contain a circulation desk, children’s area, story time area and computer facilities.
The only structural addition to the building will be to facilitate barrier free access, Grinham explained, though the front entrance will be redesigned to reflect the original appearance and basement level windows will be uncovered to take advantage of natural light.
Councillor Mark MacKenzie questioned the placement of an upper story HVAC in close proximity to the study area, wondering if noise would be an issue.
“Hopefully not,” said Grinham, adding additional soundproofing measures could be taken if necessary.
Councillor George Bridge said the design reflects community input.
“I think the process was very good. We had public meetings and a lot of people came out. People feel they were listened to, you’ve kept the heritage of the building,” said Bridge.
Council approved the design as presented and directed the consulting firm to proceed with tenders to engage a contractor to begin construction in the new year.
The project, which has a $3-million budget, is expected to be completed by the end of 2015.
