Winnipeg, MB – Today, the West End Library was officially renamed the Harvey Smith Library.
Former Councillor Harvey Smith was first elected to City Council in 1980, representing the Sargent Park Ward until 1986. He went on to become the MLA for Ellice from 1986 to 1988, before returning to City Council in 1998 as the representative for the Daniel McIntyre Ward. Smith worked to relocate the former West End Library from Ellice Avenue to its current location at 999 Sargent Ave. at the Cindy Klassen Recreation Complex. Prior to becoming a politician, Smith worked as a teacher and school librarian for Winnipeg School Division No. 1.
“I am very pleased to be a part of the renaming of West End Library to Harvey Smith Library,” said Councillor Mike Pagtakhan, Chair of the Standing Policy Committee on Protection, Community Services and Parks. “I had the pleasure of working with Harvey for three terms on Council, and I can tell you he was an incredibly passionate advocate for community, literacy & libraries! It’s an honour to recognize his legacy and commitment to our city.”
“Harvey served our community with distinction. He was a community champion who loved our city, especially the ward he represented,” said Councillor Cindy Gilroy, Daniel McIntrye Ward. “His career as a librarian and then as a City Councillor were filled with colour and life. He spoke up for the little guy and always did it with flair and a good sense of humour. The naming of the West End Library as the Harvey Smith Library is a testament to his community service and a life well-lived.”
A portrait of Smith, created by students from Art City, was also unveiled. The painting will be permanently located at the library as a tribute to the former Councillor.
On June 12, 2017, City Council voted to rename the West End Library to the Harvey Smith Library. The library circulates over 114,000 items annually and offers approximately 140 programs each year.
For more information on Winnipeg Public Library, including hours, locations, and online services, please visit winnipeg.ca/library.