County of Brant Council approved the proposed architectural design for a new Main Branch Library during their regular meeting on Tuesday, June 27, 2023.
The project includes restoration of the Bawcutt Centre, Paris’ 1854 original town hall and National Historic Site. The concept design was developed by DPAI Architecture Inc., of Hamilton.
“We are thrilled to have Council’s support to move the new Main Branch Library to the next steps,” said Kelly Bernstein, Library CEO. “This library will be a cultural anchor where the community can gather, learn, and grow. It’s an honour to have the opportunity to preserve a vital piece of our community’s heritage for future generations.”
In addition to traditional library services, the new Main Branch Library’s 27,800 square feet will feature a MakerSpace lab, community kitchen, café, and restored historic Opera Hall for public performances. Exterior features such as a reading garden and outdoor program area will enhance the natural beauty of the heritage neighbourhood.
“The new main library and Bawcutt Centre will be a vibrant community hub for diverse and collaborative cultural expressions and gatherings for all residents of the County of Brant,” said Mayor David Bailey. “It will bring new and exciting library services to our ever-growing community, provide much needed special event space, and restore and preserve an important piece of County of Brant heritage.”
This project is guided by a Steering Group composed of Library Board members and the Bawcutt Centre Advisory Committee. Site preparation, including the demolition of a 1964 addition, will begin in July. Designs will be finalized and put to tender this summer and return to Council for approvals this fall. Once approved, construction is anticipated to take approximately 24 months.
Find approved architectural designs and up-to-date building news at brantlibrary.ca/NewMainBranch.
