"Imagine What's Possible" - Edmonton Public Library Revitalization Gives Hope
"It is now time to transform the Stanley A. Milner Library into a space that better facilitates collaboration and co-learning, inspires creativity, spurs the imagination and fosters lifelong learning." (Imagine Milner)
Stanley A. Milner Library
Library closed for renovation December 31, 2016 with expected completion date in 2020. (Operations have moved to Enterprise Square, 10212 Jasper Avenue, for the interim).
One of the main components that all great metropolitan cities have in common is an inclusive, comprehensive public library to provide knowledge, opportunity and cohesiveness to the community at large. Libraries have a way of bringing people together, old and young, fortunate and less privileged, no matter your race or religion, they provide the freedoms of expression and pursuit that each individual seeks. The Edmonton Public Library has been such a monument to this City, with over 1.2 million visitors per year, however in the beginning of 2017 when construction began, it became time to transform the building into the modern and relevant institution that it is to so many.
Did you know:
- Edmontonians attend free Edmonton Public Library Programs nearly 350,000 times annually!
- In 2014, the Edmonton Public Library won the Library of the Year award, the most prestigious international recognition that a library can receive and the first library outside of United States to receive this!
- The Edmonton Public Library is the second most visited venue in Edmonton, second only to West Edmonton Mall!
- Source: Make it Possible! Re-imagining the Stanley A. Milner Library
The total budget for this revitalization is $62.5 Million, of which the City of Edmonton has committed $52.5 Million and the remaining $10 Million will be raised through community fundraising efforts. The City asked the public what was important for this renovation, and the people answered. Words that were used to describe what this new gathering space should be included: intellectual, sharing, destination, inviting, quiet spaces, aesthetic, landmark, community, growth and magical.
Some of the significant changes are as follows:
- New and improved Children's Library with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) activities such as coding and robotics, as well as an indoor play area to burn off energy.
- A larger Makerspace to allow for opportunities with 3D Printing, fabrication, sound and video production, as well as a creative spaces for music and art
- A much larger quiet study and reading space overlooking Churchill square with abundant natural light and improved energy efficiency.
- A high tech theatre and multi-story interactive simulation wall
- Source: epl.ca
Renderings and Floorplans
Source: epl.ca
The Edmonton Public Library is pursuing community involvement in the form of donations to satisfy their $10 Million responsibility to this project. If you are interested in donating to this exciting and worthy cause, please click on the link below.