On Saturday, May 13, the library “Swing into the Future” gala was held in the new Sergeant’s Mess Hall at Base 31.

It was a beautiful night with music, food and a great celebration of the expansion of the Picton Branch Library. Our heartfelt thanks to everyone who made the event possible. The timing couldn’t have been better as it turned out to be just when we were able to move into the newly built portion of the library!

On Tuesday, May 16 we began to offer library services in the new section in a temporary layout. The original, upstairs section of the library is completely empty of books for the first time since it was built in the early 1900s! They are now housed in the new section.

Soon, the front door will be closed off as the flooring, paint and foyer get cosmetic improvements. You will need to enter the building through the children’s room door on the west side of the building. Then you will be able to use stairs or the elevator to make your way upstairs. We appreciate your continued patience through this project.

The expanded library has three levels. The lowest level is an open flex space which we envision being used for larger meetings, performances and rehearsals. It has a small kitchenette and washroom and is fully accessible. In addition to our own ideas for the use of the space, we’re excited to see what our community comes up with to use it.

The next level houses the children’s room, computers, makerspace and a soundproof room for audio recording. Most of this level is now available for use, with the exception of a room that will eventually be a “rainy day play area” with gross motor toys for children.

Over the next weeks the library’s tech people will be setting up the equipment for the makerspace and soundproof room. If you’re interested in learning more about the technology, you can call Aaron, Adam and Michele at (613) 476-5962 for a tour. They are also available for tech help appointments.

The top floor houses the adult book collection, meeting rooms and, when construction is complete, the reading room. We will have space for more books when we are able to use all of the top floor and we encourage you to complete our survey sharing your thoughts on the types of books you would like to find at the library.

We are so excited for you to see the new space! Drop by and check it out!

-Liz Zylstra