With Friday’s official inauguration of NDG’s new library and cultural centre, residents can look forward to longer hours in the borough’s stacks.
“As of this fall, we’re going to extend the library hours in the other three libraries in the borough as well,” said NDG-Cote-des-Neiges Mayor Russell Copeman.
Since opening in February, over 100,000 have come to use the new facility, drawn by its open architecture and cultural spaces, meeting rooms and 200-seat theatre.
There are also ample books and digital materials, almost half of which are English.
“It reflects the diversity of this borough,” said Copeman.
The facility, which sits at the corner of Monkland and Benny, cost $24.3 million, paid for equally by the city, borough and province. The building is certified by the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design program.
“We all have to do buildings with lighting, good environment, fresh air and so on, all with lower energy costs,” said architect Jacob Fichtman.
Copeman said the facility provides much-needed cultural space in NDG and will help integrate newcomers into the area.
“This is part of our policy for integration and sending a strong message that we are truly a cultural metropolis,” he said.
