welcoming atmosphere | Building Projects

Civic Centre Resource Library Wins the 2019 OLA New Library Building Award

Posted on July 11, 2019 by Denise | Tagged building projects, building update, civic centre, Civic Centre Resource Library, new furniture, new library, open to the public, resource library, tree, vaughan, vaughan public libraries, welcoming atmosphere, windows

Stunning architecture, environmental stewardship, connections with local histories, and serving growing communities by providing exciting spaces are just a few notable aspects of the recipients of the 2019 Ontario Library Association (OLA) New Library Building Award.

Vaughan Public Libraries’ (VPL) Civic Centre Resource Library is one of the four recipients of the distinguished award, including Brampton Library, Hamilton Public Library, and Toronto Public Library- Albion Branch.

The OLA Library Building Award encourages and showcases excellence in the architectural design and planning of libraries in Ontario. The award is divided into two alternating categories (Library Architectural and Design Transformation, and New Library Buildings) and runs every third year to allow a critical number of projects in all types of libraries to accumulate.

“Newly-built libraries today reflect the strong desire for public places that instill a sense of community pride and are, at the same time, highly flexible and functional spaces,” comments Shelagh Paterson, executive director, OLA.

Civic Centre Resource Library, ZAS Architects + Interiors

From the jury: “An amazing architectural and geometric engineering achievement! A visually stunning façade that appears to change from transparent to solid as the daylight changes throughout the day. The library is built as a visionary makerspace that provides a much needed centre for community learning, gathering, creating and celebration. Through the innovative design process, ZAS Architects created impressively wide-open spaces that allow flexibility for library programming and that can be easily redefined without limitations. The result is a cultural destination that inspires creativity, provides a welcoming place to gather and interact, and that has attracted new users enriching community life in the rapidly growing City of Vaughan”.

Margie Singleton (Chief Executive Officer, Vaughan Public Libraries) and Paul Stevens (Senior Principal, ZAS Architects + Interiors) receive the OLA Building Award for the Civic Centre Resource Library, at OLA’s Annual Institute on the Library as Place event on July 10, 2019.

We Have Espresso Bars!

Posted on June 13, 2019 by Denise | Tagged bathurst clark resource library, building update, Civic Centre Resource Library, new, open to the public, Pierre Berton Resource Library, renovations, resource library, welcoming atmosphere

For our coffee lovers, nothing beats that rush of caffeine to the brain. Get excited, Vaughan Public Libraries (VPL) recently rolled out coffee vending machines at the Civic Centre and Bathurst Clark Resource Libraries (coming soon to Pierre Berton Resource Library)! Get a cup of premium coffee, cappuccino, mocha or even a tea latte, whatever you like!

Have Facebook? Watch a demonstration on how you can get your cuppa at VPL’s Espresso Bar.

Try the Civic Centre Resource Library’s Espresso bar and vending machines near the library entrance

Espresso Bar Menu

Enjoy the Espresso Bar along with other vending machines in the library at Bathurst Clark Resource Library

It’s Springtime: Vaughan Public Libraries Outdoor Spaces Are Open!

Posted on May 13, 2019 by Denise | Tagged Civic Centre Resource Library, community library, decor, kleinburg library, open to the public, outdoors, Pleasant Ridge Library, vaughan, vaughan public libraries, welcoming atmosphere, windows

It’s undeniable: Spring is in the air and everyone is yearning to be outside. Vaughan Public Libraries has several beautiful reading gardens that are now open for you to use and enjoy.

As the days get warmer, what could be more perfect than reading outdoors? Come by to enjoy our outdoor spaces where you can enjoy comfortable seating, nice views, and some fresh air. Sit back and read a book or maybe even write one! Feel free to take out magazines or newspapers from our collection and stay up-to-date while relishing the breeze. And, of course, also enjoy access to our free Wi-Fi connection on your devices. Consider the outdoor spaces an additional library space for your use and pleasure.

Young customer enjoying outdoor reading in Kleinburg Library’s reading garden.

Comfortable seating and picturesque views in the Civic Centre Resource Library (CCRL) reading garden.

CCRL’s second floor beautiful outdoor patio that is full of natural light.

CCRL’s second floor beautiful patio

Beautiful exterior reading garden at Pleasant Ridge Library

Seniors practicing their square dancing in the Pleasant Ridge Library reading garden.

Vellore Village Library’s large outdoor balcony overlooking skate park

Things are “looking up” at Vaughan Public Libraries

Posted on February 22, 2019 by Denise | Tagged bathurst clark resource library, city of vaughan, Civic Centre Resource Library, community library, decor, Learn It Lab, open to the public, vaughan, vaughan public libraries, Vellore Village Library, welcoming atmosphere

Vaughan Public Libraries’ ten locations have so much to offer, but have you ever noticed the ceiling of your local branch? From simple lighting to hanging sound baffles, each library has its own unique design elements to its ceiling. Let’s take a quick look at some of the most recently constructed/renovated locations.

Triangular baffles and circular lighting give Vellore Village Library a feeling of space and airiness.

Hanging white sound baffles and circular lights greet you as you enter Civic Centre Resource Library.

High ceilings with rectangular baffles and circular lighting give "shape" to a comfortable area to read.

High ceilings with rectangular baffles and circular lighting at Civic Centre Resource Library give “shape” to a comfortable area to read.

The hanging lighting and playful colours add a feeling of joy in Bathurst Clark Resource Library’s LEARN IT! Lab.

A fun curve of light greets you as you enter the LEARN IT! Lab from the north entrance.

Lights and circles catch your eye as you enter the LEARN IT! Lab from the east entrance.

What have you noticed on the ceiling of your local library? From exquisite details to simple lines, be sure to “look up” while you are looking for your favourite book next time you visit the library!

Officially Open: The New Children’s Area and Learn It! Lab

Posted on January 28, 2019 by Denise | Tagged bathurst clark resource library, building update, city of vaughan, decor, Learn It Lab, new, new furniture, open to the public, renovations, resource library, Thornhill, vaughan, vaughan public libraries, welcoming atmosphere, windows

The snow didn’t stop the celebration on January 20 as we officially opened the new Children’s Area and Learn It! Lab at Bathurst Clark Resource Library. Thanks to all of those who joined in the celebration!

Looking through the new pass-through with Peter Kent, MP; Minister Michael Tibollo, Vaughan-Woodbridge MPP; Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua; VPL CEO, Margie Singleton and VPL Board Chair, Dr. Devender Sandhu.

Looking through the new pass-through with Peter Kent, MP; Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Sport, Michael Tibollo; Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua; VPL CEO, Margie Singleton and VPL Board Chair, Dr. Devender Sandhu.

Mayor, Members of Council, Vaughan Library Board, VPL Executive Management Team with the project's architect and construction representatives.

Front row (left to right): VPL Board Trustees, Loreta Pavese, Ralph Cinelli, Vice-Chair Rose Savage, Board Chair Dr. Devender Sandhu, Maya Goldenberg, Palma Pallante and Gary Thompson. Back row (left to right): VPL Director of Growth & Communications, Aleksandra Dowiat Vine; VPL Director of Finance & Community Spaces, Sandy Vander Werff; President of Massive Devcon Corp., Ali Ozden; Peter Kent, MP; Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Sport Michael Tibollo; Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua; Ward 4 Councillor and VPL Board Trustee, Sandra Yeung Racco; City of Vaughan Regional Councillor Linda Jackson; Principal of Ward99 Architects, Tina Ranieri-D’Ovdio and VPL Director of Customer Experience, Lisa McDonough.

Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua with the Vaughan Public LIbrary Board working together on the rigamajig.

Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua and members of the Vaughan Public Library Board working together on the rigamajig.

The very busy and popular Technology Bar.

A special storytime with Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua.

Puppet show by Applefun Puppetry.

Fantastic things to discover in the Learn It! Lab.

For more highlights from the day, visit VPL’s Facebook page.

The New Children’s Area and LEARN IT! Lab at Bathurst Clark Resource Library to Open Soon!

Posted on January 11, 2019 by Denise | Tagged bathurst clark resource library, building projects, building update, city of vaughan, decor, Learn It Lab, new, new furniture, renovations, resource library, vaughan, vaughan public libraries, welcoming atmosphere, windows

The air at Bathurst Clark Resource Library is buzzing with excitement as VPL prepares the new Children’s Area and LEARN IT! Lab to open to the public.

Renovations began last summer, completing Phase One which included the painting and replacing all the carpet in the main public library space; additional comfy new chairs and study tables enlarging study space and increasing seating; the renovation of the main washrooms; and the creation of a program/meeting room and two exterior book return slots in front of the library.

Phase Two included the new Children’s Area, a space created specifically for children and their families where they will be able to enjoy hands-on literacy-rich experiences. The area also includes the LEARN IT! Lab, VPL’s digital creation and digital literacy space for kids. The project overall has increased space for public use by 3,000 square feet.

Design features of Phase Two:
• Programs and materials for children, including storytimes, book clubs and technology training
• Family reading area
• An abundance of technology including iPads on two technology bars, Early Literacy computers, Chromebooks, 3D printer, Cricut® (smart-tech cutting machine), and more
• Powered, circular children’s homework tables
• Comfortable, moveable seating and vibrant colours throughout this flexible usage of space
• New, large windows providing an abundance of natural light
• Decorative, Varia Ecoresin panels and a circular, Corian chrome-coloured pass-through add to the playful and welcoming atmosphere
• Children’s height self-checkout station
• Artistic, modern-style lighting
• Plenty of connectivity for charging devices

Phase Two also included the addition in the main library of a laptop kiosk and a universal washroom to accommodate a wheeled mobility device.

Decorative resin panels at north entrance of Children's Area.

Decorative panels at north entrance of Children’s Area.

Circular pass-through.

Future Learn It! display and storage.

New furniture to be placed.

Circular ceiling lighting.

Facing east.

Early Literacy computers are set up.

Facing northwest.

Books are being shelved.

Storage space and a future spot for more computers.

The east entrance to the Children’s Area.

Bathurst Clark Resource Library is now open!

Posted on October 24, 2018 by Denise | Tagged bathurst clark resource library, building projects, building update, city of vaughan, construction, decor, open to the public, renovations, resource library, vaughan, vaughan public libraries, welcoming atmosphere

After being closed for renovations, VPL is excited to announce Bathurst Clark Resource Library is now re-open to the public.

With new paint and carpeting throughout, you will notice more comfy seating, expanded and flexible study spaces including upgraded and refurbished study tables with electrical outlets, meeting/study rooms with white boards, renovated washrooms and two convenient book return slots on the exterior wall of the Library! According to one customer, the renovations make the space feel “lighter and brighter”. Be sure to check it out yourself!

Entrance to Bathurst Clark Resource Library with new seating on both sides.

New bar seating by the vending machines and main entrance.

New, comfy seating, paint and carpeting throughout the library.

Expanded study areas.

More study tables with electrical outlets.

Friendly VPL staff to answer your questions.

Bright, renovated washrooms.

Convenient book return slots by the library entrance.

Close-up of exterior book return slots.

The temporary children’s area as construction continues on the new space including the Learn It! lab.

Construction still continues on the Children's area and Learn It! lab

Construction continues on the Children’s area and Learn It! lab.

*Please note the Children’s area is temporarily smaller until the new Children’s area and Learn It! Lab are completed, which is expected to open in December. Until then, all children’s programming will be held at Dufferin Clark Library.

Update on Bathurst Clark Resource Library Renovations: October 11

Posted on October 11, 2018 by Denise | Tagged bathurst clark resource library, building projects, building update, city of vaughan, decor, new, new furniture, open to the public, renovations, resource library, vaughan, vaughan public libraries, welcoming atmosphere

New carpet, wall colours, furniture and more can now be found at Bathurst Clark Resource Library. Stay tuned; we will announce a reopening date soon.

North end of the main hall, looking east, showing new study tables and carpeting.

North end of the main hall, looking north, showing new study tables and carpeting.

North end of the main hall, looking west, showing new study tables, new paint colours, and carpeting.

New magazine lounging area, looking south.

Relocated computer area, looking south.

View of south end of the main hall, showing expanded study area.

Self checkout stations.

New meeting room with whiteboard.

The new stalls in the women’s washroom.

View of the new children’s area, still under construction, from the main lobby looking west

The red ribbon has been cut; Vellore Village Library is officially open!

Posted on September 26, 2018 by Denise | Tagged city of vaughan, community library, new library, vaughan, vaughan public libraries, Vellore Village Library, welcoming atmosphere

It was a beautiful, sunny day to officially open the Vellore Village Library on September 22. Thanks to all of those who joined in the celebration!

Vaughan Public Library Board Chair, Devender Sandhu, engaging the crowd.

The official ribbon cutting ceremony (left to right): Aleksandra Dowiat Vine, VPL Director of Growth & Communications; Andrew Gortat, Principal Architect at ZAS Architects + Interiors; Devender Sandhu, Vaughan Public Library Board Chair; Margie Singleton, VPL Chief Executive Officer; Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua; Ward 3 Councillor and VPL Board Trustee Rosanna DeFrancesca; John Appugliesi, President and CEO of Jasper Construction Company and Lisa McDonough, VPL Director of Customer Experience.

City of Vaughan Mayor and Members of Council with the Vaughan Public Library Board.

STEAM activities enjoyed by all.

Music entertainment by Sonshine & Broccoli.

For more highlights from the day, visit VPL’s Facebook page or view our video on YouTube.

Vellore Village Library is now open!

Posted on August 14, 2018 by Denise | Tagged building projects, building update, city of vaughan, community library, new, new library, open to the public, vaughan public libraries, Vellore Village Library, welcoming atmosphere

Thanks to all who joined us on Saturday, August 11 as the doors of Vellore Village Library were opened to the public. Over 1,600 people visited the library throughout the day!

Opening the doors to the public and a welcome by VPL Board and staff

VPL Board and staff welcomed members of the community as they first stepped into the Vellore Village Library.

Many people looking at what Vellore Village Library has to offer.

Everyone discovering all of the wonderful books, resources and spaces Vellore Village Library has to offer.

Storytimes for the kids at Vellore Village Library

Children enjoying the first Vellore Village Library storytime.

Family reading on Vellore Village Library patio

Reading together on the patio.

From left to right: Ward 4 Councillor and VPL Board Trustee, Sandra Yeung Racco; VPL Board Trustees, Loreta Pavese and Manjit Kaur; VPL Board Vice-Chair, Rose Savage; VPL Board Chair, Devender Sandhu; Regional Councillor Gino Rosati; and two gentleman from the Vellore community. In front: One of our young community members excited for the library to open.