After years of hope and requests from Holly residents, it’s official – there’s a new library branch coming to the Holly community in Barrie’s south-west end!
Barrie City Council passed the 2021 budget on Monday, January 25, which included support for a much-needed new library location.
“We are thrilled to have received the support from Council to make this dream a reality,” said Austin Mitchell, Barrie Public Library Board Chair. “The residents of Holly have been asking for this for more than 10 years. It really is a monumental day for the Library and for the community.”
The planned location at Essa Rd. and Mapleton Ave. is ideal for residents to access at their convenience while out running errands. Sitting around 4500 square feet in size, this boutique library space will offer books, movies, programs, computer access, printing, and more. Mobile shelving and furniture will allow for flexibility in the space.
“It’s really been a team effort to get us to this place,” continued Jessop. “Our staff have been as passionate about it as the Holly residents, so it’s wonderful to get this news and share the excitement. Libraries are proven to boost literacy rates and they provide equal access to trusted information, which are both more important now than ever.”
Library staff will be hard at work ordering new furniture, shelving and technology to get the space ready for an opening date late this summer or early fall.
To stay up-to-date on the progress of the Holly Community Library, sign up for our Holly email list: http://eepurl.com/hgvm6r