City looking to replace several public libraries

The Charleswood Library would be the first up for replacement if the recommendation is passed on Thursday.

The City of Winnipeg Public Service is recommending that eight public libraries be replaced beginning in the new year.

This was put forward in the Library Facility Redevelopment Strategy Report, which was released on Tuesday.

The libraries recommended for replacement include: Charleswood, St. Vital, Windsor Park, Transcona, River Heights, Westwood, St. James and West Kildonan.

"Libraries are a tremendous asset in our communities. In addition to being places of learning and research, they are gathering places, where everyone is welcome and there is no cost to participate," said Mayor Sam Katz in a media release. "At the City of Winnipeg, we believe that's something to protect and treasure. This report calls for the replacement of some of our older, cramped library facilities with modern, accessible buildings that can easily accommodate community activities and programming."

The city says all of the eight listed libraries are nearly 50 years or older and many are in need of modern amenities and better accessibility.

The report goes before The Standing Policy Committee on Protection and Community Services on Thursday. If approved, the first libraries up for replacement would be Charleswood, St. Vital and Windsor Park costing more than $6 million, which is in the current capital budget.

The city says it will cost $21 million over eight years.

Proposed Library Replacement Dates:

- Charleswood – 2013

- St. Vital & Windsor Park (amalgamation) - 2013

- Transcona – 2014

- River Heights – 2015

- Westwood  - 2017

- St. James - Assiniboia – 2018

- West Kildonan – 2020