Construction will soon begin on the future home of the City of Winnipeg archives. On Friday, the city announced renovations of Carnegie Library are scheduled to begin this month. The historic site, located at 380 William Avenue, is being redeveloped as part of the Winnipeg 150 Legacy Project to once again store the city’s archives. Mayor Scott Gillingham said in a news release the city’s archives preserve the stories that shaped who Winnipeg is as a community. “Restoring the historic Carnegie Library as a permanent home for these records ensures our city’s history will be protected and shared with future generations,” he said. “As the Winnipeg 150 Legacy Project, this redevelopment celebrates both our past and the city we’re building for the future.” Renovations at the library, which first opened 120 years ago, include a climate-controlled storage vault, as well as spaces for public programming, research and reconciliation activities including smudging, ceremonies and displays. “This redevelopment allows Winnipeggers to engage directly with our city’s deep and diverse history in a space designed to protect and celebrate it,” said Coun. Evan Duncan, chair of the standing policy committee on property and development, in a news release. “The Carnegie Library has stood as a symbol of learning and community for over a century, and restoring it to serve as our City Archives ensures that legacy continues for generations to come.” The archives were forced to temporarily move in 2013 due to rainstorm damage. The city notes the current location is a short-term solution that’s not meant for long-term preservation. Council approved over $22 million for the renovations. Construction is expected to be finished in 2027.
