There was a lineup at the front door when Sunnyside Branch reopened on Monday August 16 at 10 am after eight months of renovations. The $1.275 million for the project came from the infrastructure stimulus fund, supported equally by the federal, provincial and municipal governments.
New Foyer Shows Off Original Stone Structure
The library was pleased to welcome the community to a cleaner, brighter space designed to be comfortable and welcoming. Entering through the new main foyer which emphasizes the high ceilings and stone exterior of the original building, visitors could see the new ceiling, the energy efficient lighting, and the new flooring and repainting throughout.
Local Artists Contribute
Special mention should be made of the two paintings commissioned and donated by the Friends of the Sunnyside Library. Both are by local artists. Bhat Boy’s "Jolly Old Ottawa South" (click here to view) hangs over the main floor Information Desk, and Crystal Beshara’s "Summertime Reading" is in a similar spot in the children’s area.
24/7 Book Return, Self-Serve Checkout, and Early Literacy Area
Additional benefits for the community include a more secure book return, available around the clock, and a fast self-serve option for checkout on both floors.
Children will enjoy checking out their own books downstairs, where they can take their time without worrying about disturbing others. The new early literacy area also provides children with colourful interactive panels, a magnet play board, and an alphabet table all designed to promote reading and literacy skills through play. These materials were purchased with funds donated by the Friends of the Sunnyside Library. The new shelving, also purchased with a donation from the Friends of the Ottawa Public Library, the creative murals and floor design welcome children to a lighter, brighter space designed just for them.
New Program and Meeting Rooms
With our new program room, parents and children can enjoy the programs we offer in a dedicated space without disturbing others who wish to study or browse the collections. The program room and the new meeting room will also allow us to offer programs for adults and Teens. These rooms will also be available for community use.
New Fall 2010 Programs at Sunnyside Branch
Upcoming fall programs include more options for Babytime and Toddlertime, more book clubs for all ages, such as: Mother-Daughter Book Clubs for ages 7-9, 10-12 & 13-15, guysread for ages 8-12, Books and Beyond, Adult Book Club and Cercle de lecture. Look for our newest Teen program, the Settlers of Catan, plus author visits with J.C. Sulzenko, Max Turner and Shane Peacock. For more information or to register, go to www.biblioottawalibrary.ca and click on Programs or call the Sunnyside branch at 613-730-1082 during opening hours.