What's Good in Kingston: KFPL Isabel Turner Branch Grand Re-Opening

The branch located across from Cataraqui Centre is set to re-open this Saturday.

After an extended closure for renovations and modernization, the Isabel Turner branch of the Kingston Frontenac Public Library is getting ready to welcome back everyone on Saturday June 6th from 1-4 pm. The branch, located at 935 Gardiners Road was built in 1997 and is the busiest in the KFPL family of facilities. Its renos focused on sustainability, accessibility and functionality, including upgrades to the heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems.

Liz Coates, the manager of programming and outreach for KFPL says the reopening will be a true celebration

"Library services, technology and accessibility standards have all changed enormously since this building opened in 1997," says Laura Carter, Chief Librarian and CEO. "Community needs have also changed. At its core, that's what this renovation is about, making sure the branch evolves along with the ways we learn and connect, and to help build a thriving, well-informed and resilient community.”

Coates gives us a few hints of what's new.

The event offers an opportunity to discover the branch’s beautiful new features, including a stunning large-scale painting, Knowledge Still Growing, by Cree artist Jaylene Cardinal.

Coates says the renos reinforce the community inclusive vision of what libraries are all about

The renovation was supported by the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings Program, the City of Kingston, the Friends of the Kingston Frontenac Library, the Britton Smith Foundation, the Community Foundation for Kingston & Area, and anonymous donors.

This event is free and open to everyone. No registration is required. The branch will be open until 5 p.m. Regular hours resume on June 8.

Learn more at kfpl.ca.

Story by Brian Turner