Western Branch Library and Community Centre

June 5^th, 2000

By: Heather Guscott

It was with great pleasure on May 16, that I was able to attend the official ground breaking ceremony for the new  branch library and community centre located at 470 Kingston Road, west of Rosebank Road.

This is my 2nd term, 6th year, as a Pickering Public Library Board trustee.  My motivation for applying to City Council for this appointment was the 5 year Library Board's plan that included a new facility in west Pickering.  As a consistent user of the Rouge Hill branch, I was very aware of the deterioration of the building and the increasing inability of the branch to serve the growing population in the western portion of the city.

There is a great sense of satisfaction to be able to realize the Boards goal with the projected opening of the facility in January 2001.  The building will house both a 10,000 square foot library as well as a community centre with facilities for meeting space for seniors groups and various community organizations.

Of special note are the "name the new library/community centre" ballot boxes located in the Central and the Rouge Hill libraries. The contest is in effect until mid-June and I know the prize for the winner is truly worth your time and thought.

For further information and an update on the construction of the building, please visit the  Pickering Western Branch Info page.  This link will give you access to both text and photographs of the work in progress!!

Pickering Public Library is the 4th busiest library per capita in the province of Ontario.  There is a truly knowledgeable and dedicated staff whocontinue to amaze me with the innovative ideas and programs they develop anddeliver to the residents of the City.  If you have children and haven'tchecked out the new children's link, you will love it!!

Lastly, I am constantly amazed when reviewing the library activity stats per quarter, of the devotion of the residents to the Rouge Hill branch.  I know you will love the new facility and I hope you are as excited about it as I am!  Should you have any questions related to the library or its function,please send any questions to the AWCA Webmaster and they will be forwarded.