The Lethbridge Public Library Crossings Branch will get an expanded children’s area and space for teenagers as part of a $1.05 million expansion project. The expansion is set to start by the end of this month and is expected to be completed by the end of the year.
“We here at the Crossings Branch are excited to be starting this expansion and enhancement project. The renovation will allow us to better serve our neighbours in the growing west side community,” says Sarah Head, Manager of Branch Services. “Through the expansion and enhancement, we are able to maximize our current spaces by providing dedicated and improved areas specific to customer needs including the Indigenous community and youth. We are especially grateful to the Friends of the Library whose generosity has afforded us the ability to significantly improve the furnishings in our children’s area.”
The expansion will include an Indigenous gathering place, additional public washrooms , additional staff working space and additional furniture, on top of the expanded children and teen areas. The library interior will also see a redesign to provide better access to washrooms and staff support, according to the library.
The expansion is funded by the City of Lethbridge Capital Improvement Program, the City of Lethbridge Library Board and through a donation of the Friends of Lethbridge Public Library. The total project costs are $1.05 million, with $212,000 of that previously spent in 2018 to upgrade the Crossings Branch HVAC system.
The facility will be expanded into about 2,500 square feet of unused space next to the current building.