The Ontario Library Association has awarded Windsor's new John Muir library branch in Sandwich Towne.
It won the 2021 award in the architectural and design transformation category recognizing additions, renovations, restorations, and conversions to libraries across the province.
It's the third time the branch has received an award. Last year, it won the Lieutenant Governor's Ontario Heritage Award for Excellence in Conservation. It also picked up a Built Heritage Award from the City of Windsor.
The branch opened in September 2019 after the $5.5-million transformation from an old fire hall and stable to its current 7,400 sq ft space.
"Converting a 1921 fire hall and a stable dating back to the mid-19th century into a 21st-century public library takes courage and conviction," said Windsor Public Library CEO Kitty Pope. "We made it happen. It's a spectacular example of innovative planning and construction."
The project took four years from start to finish and experienced cost overruns after the cost of construction materials increased and soil conditions under the building added to the original $2.2-million estimate.
"The Muir project and resulting awards demonstrate that we got it right," said Windsor Public Library Board Chair and Ward 3 City Councillor Rino Bortolin. "The John Muir branch is an iconic, state-of-the-art facility and a popular Sandwich destination."
Pope and Architect Jason Grossi accepted the award during a virtual presentation on Wednesday.