September 10th will be an very important date for the Halton Hills Public Library! On that date, the Library Board and the architects will be speaking to a report submitted to Council on the Georgetown Branch Project. The 29+ page report outlines the many improvements expected with the renovation/expansion, the estimated costs, and other associated issues including the need for a temporary location during the construction phase. Also attached to the report are the latest conceptual drawings which will soon be posted on the web site. The Board Chair (Jay Jackson), the Chair of the Georgetown Branch Planning Committee (Sheila Taylor) and I will be there to respond to questions.

Just to remind you, these are the kinds of improvements that will result from this project:

• Space that meets public library guidelines for the population served
• A 'look’ that complements and integrates well with the historic features of the Church and reflects the features of the surrounding residential neighbourhood
• A floor plan that is easy to navigate (less fragmented) and accessible to all users
• A larger entrance and lobby area, where congestion typically occurs
• A more visible and enticing entrance from the street and beyond, along with large marquis signage to announce upcoming events/activities
• Much more space for all collections; lots of display opportunities to encourage discovery
• Use of environmentally-friendly technology at every opportunity
• Improved noise containment within the Library and between the Library and Cultural Centre
• Increased natural light and the circulation of fresh air; more seating by windows
• More seating and study area choices, including conversation and small group meeting spaces
• Self check to make it convenient for busy people to use the Library
• Better positioning of elevators
• Easy access to popular areas such as Children's and Youth Services
• Greater separation between Adult and Children's/Youth Services
• A larger, sound proof children’s programming area
• More space for Internet stations
• A good sized, better appointed area for teens
• Space to highlight and access resources reflecting our cultural history
• Improved space for storing/displaying special materials (e.g. art collections and local history resources)
• A welcoming feel; a sense of belonging for everyone
• More space for people to linger, relax, converse, enjoy refreshments
• A more visible Gallery with greater cross-over use by the Library
• More public washrooms, including family washrooms
• Sufficient space for staff; more efficient arrangement of staff offices
• Better designed loading dock area
• A Library that is "the hub and showcase of the community"
  

As expressed by the Board, staff and many patrons, this is a much needed, long awaited upgrade to the Georgetown Branch Library and we strongly encourage you to demonstrate your support by coming to this meeting on September 10th.

Any questions? Please contact me at diamantij@hhpl.on.ca.