Winnipeg library plan proposes 7 new branch buildings

A Winnipeg city committee will consider a new report that recommends spending just under $21 million to replace eight of its library branches with seven new buildings.

The library redevelopment report, released on Tuesday, says the city should replace some of its older and smaller libraries, as well as amalgamate the St. Vital and Windsor Park branches.

If approved, the two branches would be amalgamated in 2013. The city would also replace the Charleswood branch next year.

Both projects would cost about $6.8 million. The city says the money for those projects is already included in the current capital budget.

The following library branches would alsoget new buildings if the redevelopment plan is approved:

• Transcona2014.
• River Heights 2015.
• Westwood 2017.
• St. James-Assiniboia 2018.
• West Kildonan 2020.

The city says all the library branches that are identified in the report are about 50 years old and need renovations and modern library amenities.

The city says the new facilities would be universally accessible, eco-friendly and aesthetically appealing.

The standing policy committee on protection and community services will look at the library report on Thursday.