Winnipeg, MB – Winnipeggers are one step closer to a brand-new library.
Today, the Province of Manitoba and City of Winnipeg celebrated the start of construction of the new Mike O’Shaughnessy Library at Garden City Shopping Centre.
“Libraries are vital local hubs that can create a sense of community, foster literacy and lifelong learning, and provide safe public space that’s low-barrier and accessible to the whole community,” said Glen Simard, Minister of Municipal and Northern Relations. “Our government is always happy to contribute to projects like this that build grassroots community infrastructure for all to enjoy.”
The new library will expand services to residents in the quickly growing northwest area of the city. The design was shaped by public feedback and will feature a ‘gardens’ theme that includes natural colours and materials to create a warm and welcoming space.
“Today marks an exciting step forward for northwest Winnipeg,” said Mayor Scott Gillingham. “We’re seeing strong growth across our library system, with visits up more than 28 percent since 2022, and this new branch will help us meet that demand in a fast-growing part of our city. Investments like this are about supporting neighbourhoods and ensuring families have access to the services they rely on close to home.”
The new library will include:
- Public art
- Children’s, teen’s, and general collection areas
- Program and tutorial rooms
- Comfortable seating and study furniture
- Computer and printer stations
- Outlets for charging electronic devices
- Public washrooms
“Libraries are essential community infrastructure,” said Vivian Santos, Chairperson of the Standing Policy Committee on Community Services. “This new branch in northwest Winnipeg reflects our commitment to growing with our neighbourhoods — creating welcoming, accessible spaces where residents can learn, connect, and thrive.”
“This new library reflects what residents told us they need, which is a welcoming, accessible space where people can come together to learn, connect, and grow,” said Councillor Devi Sharma, Old Kildonan, and Speaker of Council. “By locating it at Garden City Shopping Centre, we are placing this resource at the heart of an already vibrant community hub, making it easier for families, students, and lifelong learners to access the services they rely on. This investment is about strengthening our neighbourhoods and ensuring they continue to thrive as they grow.”
The project budget is approximately $4.713 million, with $2.5 million funded through the Province of Manitoba Strategic Infrastructure Basket and $2.213 million from the City of Winnipeg.
The Mike O’Shaughnessy Library will be Winnipeg Public Library’s 21st branch, and we expect to open it in early 2027.