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Looking into the Children's reading area Port Elgin's Carnegie
library that first opened in October 1908, is almost ready to re-open
after being closed for a major facelift. A major renovation was
undertaken to add much-needed space but also to allow for complete
accessibility.
The 100-year-old building, which served the community in a variety of
ways during its history, has a new state-of-the-art addition but the
integrity of the original building has been retained.
The main entrance, which now faces Elgin Street, opens into a vaulted
foyer which will also feature the computer section, main desk, elevator
and stairway to the second level. While this part of the library is new,
one wall is actually the back outside, brick wall of the original
building. The windows have been retained but opened up and the upper
floor 'railings' are glass so that the entire feeling is one of light
and spaciousness.
On the main level is also a meeting room, with a separate entrance
should it be needed after library hours. This is also where the
children's area is and the main administration office, along with a
small staff kitchen and new washrooms that are completely wheelchair
accessible, as is the entire facility. (next column)
07/02/2009 06:18 PM
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On the upper level, the original hardwood floors have
been refinished and any wood from window framings and baseboards has
been saved along with the original bookcases and carved main desk.
Leather sofas (donated by Meridian Credit Union) and a parsons bench
donated by Cathy's Flowers & Treasures are going to provide library
users with sitting areas.
The former historic main entrance, with its stained glass windows and
carved newel posts, will no longer be used, except as an emergency exit
and alternative entry into the downstairs children's area.
On February 14, Valentine's Day, at 10:00 a.m., the library will once
again open its doors to the public. "It's been a very exciting and
tiring time, all wrapped up together," says Library Supervisor,
Elizabeth Carter. "We are looking forward to its opening." Several
librarians from throughout the County were called in to assist with
unpacking the hundreds of books and organizing them in the new areas.
While a final dollar figure has not yet been finalized, the fundraising
continues. "We are still fundraising," says Jayne Jagelewski of the
Town's Administraton, "and people can contribute by contacting the Town
Offices at 519-832-2008, or on the Town website. We have made it even
easier in that people can spread their donations over three years."
"We also want people to know that we are looking for members for Friends
of the Library," says Carter, "especially now since we have a much
larger facility. Anyone interested can call our Southampton Branch at
519-797-3586, until we open here on the 14th and then they can come in
or phone us."
For more pictures click here
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