During a Governance Committee meeting, Mayor Charlie Clark noted that the renewed Halifax library has had a transformative effect on its downtown.
The CEO of the Saskatoon Public Library says they have looked to Halifax as they work on plans for possibly a new, expanded main library with a greater variety of programs and services.
It would either be a renovation of the building they are in now if it’s feasible or in a different downtown location.
Carol Cooley reported to the Committee that the priorities include a welcoming and accessible hub with flexible spaces, a place for learning and innovation and a large collection of diverse material.
From their public engagement, 67 per cent of survey respondents were supportive of a new central library, 23 per cent unsure and 10 per cent against.
There will be more public engagement this fall and then Cooley expects they will be able to present a business case to City Council next spring.