The redevelopment of the site of the Nellie McClung library into an 18-storey building means saying goodbye to the popular public space in Saanich.
The Greater Victoria Public Library invites the community to reflect on the past and celebrate the future as it prepares for a temporary closure of the branch at 3950 Cedar Hill Rd. as part of the district’s Library and Affordable Housing Project.
“We have fond memories of our many visits when my kids were little – flipping through picture books, playing with puppets, and building a foundation for lifelong enjoyment of reading, exploration, and learning. The Nellie McClung branch has been an invaluable part of our community for nearly five decades, and will continue to be for years to come,” Saanich Mayor Dean Murdock said in a news release.
The last day of service is Dec. 14 with a smaller temporary location to open in mid-February at 3561 Shelbourne St.
The plan is for a new library on the bottom floors of a building that will be up to 18 storeys and have up to 210 units of affordable rental housing. The new library is planned to be between 25,000 and 30,000 square feet – roughly double the size of the current facility.
That project is expected to be complete in 2028.
“The Nellie McClung branch has been a cornerstone of our library system and a vital resource for families, students, and lifelong learners for nearly 50 years. We deeply appreciate the community’s enthusiasm as we embark on this journey. We look forward to providing continued service at the Nellie McClung express branch,” said board chair Andrew Appleton.
Once open, the Nellie McClung express branch will offer browsing collections for adults and children, holds pick-up, returns, and express computer access. Patrons are encouraged to explore GVPL’s extensive digital collections and online resources, available 24/7 at gvpl.ca, throughout the closure.
The celebration is Friday (Dec. 6) from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Nellie McClung branch.
