The Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) is holding an event to celebrate and reminisce on the five decades the Nellie McClung branch has been open and look to the future of what the library will offer down the road.
The Nellie McClung branch will be closed for approximately three years as it is renovated as part of the District of Saanich’s new Library and Affordable Housing Project.
This complete rebuild will ensure it meets the evolving needs of the community better than it has been, according to GVPL.
During the time the branch is closed, GVPL will operate from the Nellie McClung Express Branch. This is a smaller, temporary location that is scheduled to open in mid-February at 3561 Shelbourne Street.
The last day of service at Nellie McClung will be Saturday, December 14th.
“We have fond memories of our many visits when my kids were little — flipping through picture books, playing with puppets, and building a foundation for lifelong enjoyment of reading, exploration, and learning,” said Saanich Mayor Dean Murdock, noting his family’s special connection to the branch.
“The Nellie McClung Branch has been an invaluable part of our community for nearly five decades, and will continue to be for years to come.”
The event to celebrate the branch’s five-decades of service will be on December 6th. There, the community can enjoy an “intergenerational storytime,” historical photo displays as well as remarks from GVPL leaders and local officials.
The event will also feature light refreshments as the community gathers to reflect on the library’s legacy and look toward what it will look like in the future.
“We are excited about the future as we work with the District of Saanich to create a library that will inspire, connect, and serve our community in new and innovative ways,” said Maureen Sawa , GVPL CEO.
“We are very grateful to the District for ensuring continued library access through establishing the Nellie McClung Express Branch.”
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Come mid-February, the Nellie McClung Express Branch will offer collections for adults and children to browse, hold pick-ups, returns as well as computer access.
Additionally, GVPL encourages residents to explore their digital collections and online resources, which are available 24/7 via the GVPL website.
The building that will house the Nellie McClung branch in three-years’ time will also feature around 200 units of housing above the library’s space.
Nellie McClung library celebration
- Where: Nellie McClung Branch, 3950 Cedar Hill Road
- When: Friday, December 6th, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
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