OTTAWA – At the Ottawa Public Library (OPL) Board meeting this evening, former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada, the Right Hon. Beverley McLachlin, was introduced as the new Honorary Chair of the Ottawa Central Library fundraising campaign. Ms. McLachlin, an avid library user and a best-selling author, will act as an ambassador and spokesperson for the campaign.
“Ms. McLachlin embodies the Canadian spirit of democracy, inclusivity, knowledge and creativity, which is at the foundation of this new library,” said OPL Chair Matthew Luloff. “We are fortunate to have someone of her stature and influence joining us as we take on this ambitious campaign.”
The new Ottawa Central Library is part of the Ottawa Public Library and Library and Archives Canada (OPL-LAC) Joint Facility. Construction is planned to continue until late 2024, with the official opening taking place in 2025. The new facility is projected to welcome 5,000 daily visitors and more than 1.7 million per year.
“I am thrilled to be taking on this role as Honorary Chair,” said McLachlin. “As a jurist, writer, reader and strong advocate for lifelong learning and literacy, I believe public libraries are beacons of equal opportunities. They are spaces of connection where everyone, regardless of their background, can be an active part of their community, city and country.”
In addition to welcoming Ms. McLachlin in this role, Trustees were presented with the final design drawings for the new facility. They reflect one of the most inclusive and in-depth engagement processes for any public building in Canada. Residents, Indigenous Peoples, and Canadians from coast to coast were invited to participate in the design at every stage.
“This is our future central library,” said Danielle McDonald, CEO of Ottawa Public Library. “It is a space where everyone will be welcome, a place where people will come together to learn, create and connect. With Ms. McLachlin joining us in her new role, we will accelerate our efforts to raise the funds needed to offer spaces, programs and cultural events, and tools for creation and learning.”
Following the presentation, Trustee Riley Brockington moved that the Ottawa Public Library Board endorse the final design of the OPL portion of the OPL-LAC Joint Facility Project. The motion was passed unanimously. The final design plans will be shared on the Inspire555.ca website in the coming weeks.