Winnipeg, MB - The new Charleswood Library, 4910 Roblin Boulevard, officially opened today with an afternoon of music, refreshments and learning about Winnipeg Public Library’s extensive eLibrary of streaming movies, music and downloadable eBooks, eMagazines and more.
“The City of Winnipeg is proud to have funded the renovations to the new Charleswood Library to make it fully accessible and energy-efficient, with state-of-the-art check-out equipment and ample space to read, study, work, and meet in community groups,” said Mayor Brian Bowman. “The original library was built in 1966 and the collection actually outgrew the building because it was one of the smallest branches in Winnipeg, but it is also one of the busiest community-sized libraries in the City.”
The new Charleswood Library, located in Charleswood Square Mall, replaces the former library at 5014 Roblin Boulevard and is a significant improvement for the community. The City’s contribution to the new space includes an investment of approximately $960,000 for building renovations, plus approximately $200,000 for furniture and shelving. The new, fully accessible location is double the physical size of the former location, and has more books, movies and music for all ages, as well as a teen area, a fireplace lounge, and study and meeting spaces.
The interior design reflects the nature that surrounds the Charleswood community, including a “Poet-Tree” in the children’s area, as well as a family literacy playground with interactive learning activities to encourage pre-literacy skills in young children.
Additional computers for public use and free WiFi are available, as with all branches of Winnipeg Public Library. An automated book return, available 24/7, is located at the main entrance to the library. This automated check-in service is the first of its kind in the province.
A program room has allowed the library to greatly expand programming opportunities for all ages, such as the new Youth Advisory Council, and new programs for adults.
Special performances have also been added to celebrate the new library including award-winning country music performer Ridley Bent (Saturday, January 24 at 1:30 p.m.) and children’s entertainer Aaron Burnett (Saturday, February 14 at 2:00 p.m.).
All library programs are offered free of charge.
Charleswood Library’s winter hours are as follows:
Mondays and Tuesdays: 10:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Wednesdays: Closed
Thursdays: 10:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Fridays and Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sundays: Closed