Temporary library space secured as Nellie McClung project takes next steps

News Release
For immediate release 

Saanich, BC – The Nellie McClung Housing and Library Project continues to move forward, with the District of Saanich acquiring a temporary library space at 3561 Shelbourne Street that will serve the community while the current library location is redeveloped.

“This interim location will help to minimize disruption to library services as best we can during this innovative redevelopment project, which will bring an expansion of those services as well as much-needed affordable homes for people,” says Saanich Mayor Dean Murdock. “With each step forward, excitement grows for this first-of-its-kind project that utilizes District property to bring big benefits to the community.”

Over the next few months, Saanich will work with the Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) to determine the extent of any renovations and improvements required to outfit the temporary library. Council will consider a Development Variance Permit application to vary the parking requirements for the temporary library based on the parking available onsite at the ground level of the building.

Visitors can continue to enjoy Library services at the current Nellie McClung branch at 3950 Cedar Hill Road until Saturday, December 14, 2024, while Saanich completes the needed renovations to the temporary library site on Shelbourne Street. Once renovations are complete, Library staff will prepare the temporary space for service delivery. The temporary Library’s anticipated opening date is February 2025.

“There will be a brief interruption in service from December 14 to mid-February 2025 while we prepare to operate at 3561 Shelbourne Street,” says GVPL Board Chair Andrew Appleton. “Library staff will provide access to a variety of collections at the interim location, as well as public computer and Wi-Fi access. The standard hours of operation will remain the same as will the welcoming and professional service the community has come to expect from GVPL’s exceptional staff. We are excited to embark on this transformative journey together with the District of Saanich. This move represents a vital step toward building a modern library that will benefit our community for generations.”

Community members can access library services at eleven other GVPL branches in Greater Victoria between December 15, 2024 and the anticipated opening date at the interim location in mid-February 2025.

Next steps for the project

• September 9, 2024: Development Variance Permit application presented to Council.
• Fall 2024: Design phase for the redevelopment project continues. Renovations begin on temporary library space.
• December 14, 2024: Last day of library services at 3950 Cedar Hill Road.
• Mid-February 2025: Temporary library site expected to open to the public.
• Summer 2025 – 2028: Demolition of current building and construction of new building.

Learn More
Greater Victoria Public Library builds community and supports literacy and lifelong learning by providing free access to information, space, tools, and expertise. There are 12 branch locations within 10 local municipalities serving more than 380,000 residents. GVPL is your place to connect, discover and imagine.

For more information about this exciting project, please visit Saanich.ca/NellieMcClung.

-30-

Media Contacts:
Saanich Communications
media@saanich.ca

Kelly Ridgway
Coordinator, Marketing and Development
Greater Victoria Public Library
Office: 250.940.4875 ext. 346
kridgway@gvpl.ca