Media Releases

PDF iconApril 5, 2022 - Waterloo Public Library announces grand opening of new Eastside Branch

September 21, 2020 - City Council awards tender for construction of the Eastside Branch Library

December 16, 2019 - Waterloo Public Library unveils final design of Eastside Branch Library

PDF iconNovember 21, 2017 - Waterloo Public Library to expand to the east side of the city
 

Feasibility Study

In September 2016, studioCANOO Architecture was contracted by the Waterloo Public Library and City of Waterloo as a Consultant to lead a Feasibility Study which would address the following objectives:

  • Assess the proposed site for the Eastside Branch Library
  • Provide conceptual/schematic drawings for a new library building at the proposed site
  • Collaborate with the Waterloo Public Library and City of Waterloo to create a public engagement plan
  • Provide a final report and recommendation in partnership with Waterloo Public Library and City of Waterloo to City Council in November 2017

The Eastside Branch Library project team (comprised of WPL and City staff members) has been working collaboratively with studioCANOO to advance the Feasibility Study.

Based on the work to date, the project team is recommending that an approximately 11,500 sq.ft, one-storey, building addition and approximately 2,200 sq.ft renovation of existing space (total Library floor area of approximately 13,700 sq.ft) on the east side of the RIM Park Manulife Financial Sportsplex and Healthy Living Centre be advanced to the conclusion of the Feasibility Study.

Background

Since 2015 , the Waterloo Public Library and the City of Waterloo have been working in partnership on the Eastside Branch Library Project.

To plan for Eastside Branch Library service, the Waterloo Public Library Board commissioned Lighthouse Consulting in 2015 to undertake a needs assessment. The goal of the study was to engage the community to articulate their vision for the proposed Eastside Branch Library and Main Library. This was achieved through focus groups and an online survey. Recurring themes for the Eastside Branch included strong emphasis on technology-based programs and services, inspiring space to meet and gather, tween/teen space, accessible location, free parking and opportunities for community based partnerships.

On June 20, 2016, City of Waterloo Council approved the RIM Park Manulife Financial Sportsplex and Healthy Living Centre as a preferred location for a potential new Eastside Branch Library, the specific location, design and building amenities to be determined via ongoing review, a Feasibility Study including but not limited to schematic/conceptual design options, and public engagement.

Construction Progress

Take a bird's-eye view of the construction process of the Eastside Branch with our amazing drone videos. Click here to view the vidoe playlist.