Rossland Library Begins the Next Chapter!
By Contributor
After nearly a year of planning, a revitalized Rossland Library is on the way to becoming reality. The new design will result in a more contemporary and inviting space, and will make better use of the area.
The main goal of the renewal project is to use modern design and new technology to create a dynamic learning environment to invite us in and inspire us.
The Rossland Public Library has occupied its current location for more than 30 years. During that time, our ways of accessing and delivering information have changed dramatically, and so has the role of libraries. Modern libraries play a key role in introducing and providing access to technology, supporting distributed learning models, and cultivating imaginations and creative thinking.
Ratio Architecture of Vancouver, BC, was selected as the project architect based on their striking designs of othe small libraries. “We could not be happier with the design,” said Chris D’Odorico, Chair of the Rossland Library Renewal Project and of the Library Board. He added that he thinks the community will be “very excited” when we see the ideas that Ratio developed for our library.
Our local library is one of the busiest in the province. BC Library Association statistics rank Rossland Public Library as 11th out of 71 in terms of active cardholdes as a percentage of population. Out of 13 libraries of similar size, Rossland’s ranks second in circulation of children’s materials. In 2013, library visits increased by 46% to 37,800; program attendance more than doubled; and the meeting room was used at least 40 times per month.
Fundraising has begun for the Library Renewal Project this week, with $33,000 already raised toward the goal of $280,000. A flyer introducing the project will land in Rossland post office boxes, and an online auction is planned for March 2015. The project website, rosslandlibraryrenewal.com, accepts donations online, and there is an account for the project at the Nelson and District Credit Union.
Sketches of the new design are on display at the library, and more information is posted at www.rosslandlibraryrenewal.com.
