City of Winnipeg Archives Redevelopment – Winnipeg 150 Legacy Project

Exterior of the Carnegie Library at 380 William Avenue

The City of Winnipeg’s Archives is trusted to keep the records of Winnipeg and its residents safe. The former Carnegie Library at 380 William Ave. is being redeveloped into the permanent home for the Archives. This is the Winnipeg 150 Legacy Project, which marks 150 years of the City. This project will help make sure Winnipeg’s records are protected, preserved, and valued for years to come.

Construction began in October 2025. It is anticipated Archives will move into the redesigned space in 2027.

MCM Architects Inc. was contracted to design the project. The building will feature a climate-controlled storage vault. It will have space to support reconciliation activities such as smudging, ceremonies, and displays.  There will also be room for public programming and research.

Artist rendering of the City of Winnipeg Archives reception area.
The City of Winnipeg Archives will feature space for programming and research. (Artist rendering)
The City of Winnipeg Archives will feature space for programming and research. (Artist rendering)
A climate-controlled vault will be at the City of Winnipeg Archives. (Artist rendering)

Since 1977, the City of Winnipeg Archives were at the former Carnegie Library (380 William Ave.). This location is historically significant for Winnipeg. It opened in 1905 as the City’s first purpose-built public library.

Rain damage in 2013 forced the Archives to relocate. The temporary location at 50 Myrtle St. was intended as a short-term solution. This location is not designed to properly preserve the materials. It does not have space for the collection to grow. It is also not designed for public programming.

Through the Archives Strategy, several options for a permanent location for the Archives were explored. Public and stakeholder engagement helped inform the strategy. The recommended option was the redevelopment of 380 William Ave. It was the most cost-effective option. It allows for records to be properly preserved in one location. It provides expanded research and exhibit space. This location also ensures Winnipeg’s history more accessible to everyone.

In 2023, City Council approved the redevelopment of 380 William Ave. The redevelopment contract for Bockstael was approved in July 2025.

As of October 2025, the project cost is $22.765 million. Of that, the Winnipeg Foundation is providing $500,000 to be used with a focus on truth and reconciliation.

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