Meaford's new library finally opened yesterday after an extra 3 week delay! I was down there shortly after lunch, and it was a wonderful building. Much of the focus has been on creating an entirely accessible library, and it was. This is going to be a common destination downtown for me.
The building is a striking renovation of the former grocery store, with the addition of a LOT of windows. It does contrast with the historic buildings of the rest of downtown, but to me it looks great.
Inside it is bright and open, with lots of space, and even a lower check-out desk for children (and wheelchair users).
There was a huge fund-raising campaign; this is the main donor recognition wall. Some of the rooms are named after the
really big donors.
This is one of two large meeting rooms. There are also several smaller rooms, all set up with audio-visual equipment.
The stacks are wide open and not too tall. The only disadvantage for me now is that the bottom shelf is awkward to use. I did find two books and sign them out.
There's a nice children's section where I thought these wavy shelves were really neat!
I was very impressed, and look forward to spending more time here in the future.
What a joy to see a new library open, and to know that it is accessible to all makes it all the more significant. Bravo Meaford!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great location that will be for you! Gord.
ReplyDeleteIt is beautiful! I love a repurposed building!
ReplyDeleteThat is wonderful to see it is so accessible! Except for the bottom shelf. ;-)
ReplyDeleteNice big bright library.
ReplyDeleteOur library has closed again and just has curbside pick up again because the Covid cases in our county is setting new records!!
The transformation from grocery store to library is impressive.
ReplyDeleteI find the bottom shelves at the library and also grocery stores next to impossible to reach. I don't bend so well any more.
Glad to see that the building was re-purposed instead of being torn down, but it's not an attractive building. It's great that it's accessible; bottom shelves are an issue for a lot of people, me included.
ReplyDeleteThat looks a great resource. All new public buildings here are supposed to be fully accessible, though some make a better job of it than others.
ReplyDeleteLibraries were always one of my favorite places as a youngster. Nice to see those big bright windows and its great the building was repurposed for a good cause.
ReplyDeleteLibraries are wonderful resources. This new one looks great. Enjoy, FG
ReplyDeleteNice that they are thinking about accessibility for public buildings. That will definitely give you someplace to visit on your own.
ReplyDeleteBe Safe and Enjoy!
It's about time.
Nice! How lucky you are it is open!
ReplyDeleteNice to see a repurposed building, it looks good!
ReplyDeleteAll the best Jan
A library is so exciting!! I have to admit that I love the 'old creaky floored' buildings better but they are not conducive to today's needs. I love the wide aisles too and the wavy children's shelving. :) I don't think our small Paisley library is wheel-chair accessible, I'm going to pay more attention next time. It is so small, most of the venues are, but things they need to consider. Have fun!
ReplyDeleteHope you can spend some time there! Looks like a great space!
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