The Bright’s Grove Library will be temporarily closed for approximately 14 months so construction work can safely take place, as part of the highly anticipated library expansion.
The closure will begin on Saturday, June 27.
County of Lambton Manager of Library Services Darlene Coke said there will be a substantial expansion to the north side of the existing building, which houses the library and Gallery in the Grove.
"That new expansion is approximately 7,000 square feet, which will be all new library space that we're very much looking forward to moving into," Coke said. "That new space will improve accessibility of the site, allow us greater space for programming and allow us to offer some new amenities, like a private meeting space and study space, a dedicated area for maker-space activities, and a larger collection."
Coke said construction dates were recently finalized as the contractor is eager to take advantage of the good weather.
"We're expecting that the building will begin to be prepared for construction starting the week of July 6," she said.
Sarnia City Council awarded the renovation and expansion contract to London-based K&L Construction Ltd. in May. The project is estimated to cost $5.86 million.
The fundraising campaign officially kicked off on Wednesday, June 23, with a goal of raising $1 million.
Coke said they're excited to have a new purpose-built library that will offer a modern and enhanced space.
"We're really enthusiastic about it being a great space for the community in Bright's Grove and we can't wait until we're there, celebrating the opening," she said.
During the closure, library card holders are encouraged to attend nearby branches: Camlachie Library, Point Edward Library, Clearwater Library and Sarnia Library.
The Camlachie and Point Edward locations will also have expanded hours temporarily in place, beginning on July 4.
Camlachie Library:
• Monday: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
• Tuesday: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
• Wednesday: 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.
• Thursday: 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.
• Saturday: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Point Edward Library:
• Monday: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
• Tuesday: 2 p.m. – 7 p.m.
• Wednesday: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
• Thursday: 2 p.m. – 7 p.m.
• Friday: 2 p.m. – 7 p.m.
• Saturday: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Meanwhile, Gallery in the Grove's last exhibition day is on Saturday, June 27.
A spokesperson said they hope to exhibit local artists' work throughout spaces in Sarnia-Lambton over the next 14 months. The gallery will also continue to award scholarships and deliver the Visiting Artists in Lambton Schools program.
