The site of the Guelph Public Library’s main branch will be transformed into housing, including affordable units, after the library relocates to its new building in 2027.
On Friday, the City of Guelph announced plans to purchase the property at 100 Norfolk St., where the current main library is situated, utilizing $3.69 million from the Ontario government’s Building Faster Fund for this acquisition.
The main branch is set to move to its new location on Baker Street in early 2027.
According to the city, the Guelph Public Library board has owned this land since 1903 and helped facilitate its sale to ensure it remains publicly accessible.
“We are building a new library across the street and we had to get rid of this asset and it made sense for the library board to transfer it to the city,” library CEO Dan Atkins told .
“We want to be focused on opening up the new central library and decommissioning a building of this size will take a significant amount of effort and so transferring it to the city will allow us to focus on the future in our new space.”
WATCH | Why Guelph is planning to build housing on library site:
Guelph announces plans to build housing on main library site
The City of Guelph will acquire land where the main branch of Guelph Public Library currently operates on Norfolk Street for developing housing, which includes affordable options. Mayor Cam Guthrie mentioned that this acquisition meets a critical need for more land dedicated to affordable housing. With plans for relocating, transferring ownership made perfect sense according to Library CEO Dan Atkins.
Mayor Cam Guthrie, who isn’t running for re-election in next month’s municipal election, stated that Friday’s announcement addresses a growing demand for more city-owned land designated for affordable housing development.
“One of the biggest struggles that cities face is increasing their inventory of affordable housing while often lacking sufficient land,” Guthrie said.
“This presents a significant opportunity. A lot of density and many units can be constructed here that will help accommodate residents.”
Library board chair Bang Ly expressed satisfaction about contributing towards essential housing needs, particularly regarding affordable options.
Future council’s role in determining site development
City staff plan over the coming year review potential approaches for delivering housing at this location.
These possibilities may involve leasing out land or collaborating with developers “with an aim towards creating diverse housing alternatives.”
According to Guthrie, decisions regarding these plans-including whether or not they preserve parts of existing structures-will depend upon subsequent council approval. He noted that construction might take several years before commencing.
Mayor Cam Guthrie highlighted that increasing available land is crucial for developing affordable housing. Purchasing where Guelph Public Library’s main branch sits directly supports this goal. (Carmen Groleau/CBC)
“The newly elected council will determine how quickly progress occurs; however , we recognize that there’s an urgent demand for more housing ,” he remarked. p >
The city disclosed through a press release indicating community engagement prior any developments being initiated at said location. Further information about public participation opportunities will arrive early next year. P >
New library construction expected by early 2027 H2 >
Atkins mentioned construction work on their upcoming facility located just one block away from current premises should conclude within early twenty twenty-seven time frame. P >
Transitioning all resources into new establishment may take several months ; however , hopes remain high aimed toward opening doors spring season arrival. P >
Dan Atkins serves as CEO representing local libraries (Carmen Groleau/CBC)
“While we’re genuinely thrilled about our forthcoming venue , certain aspects linked towards past facility shall indeed create some nostalgic feelings,” Atkins remarked. P >
On October seventeenth , they plan hosting goodbye gathering welcoming public onto old property before final transition occurs. P >
“Constructed during nineteen sixty-five , many hold fond memories associated with its presence – hence acknowledging those sentiments helps establish closure inviting everyone wishing farewell moments spent here ,” he continued.
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