The libraries of today have moved far beyond books. They have become community hubs, gathering places, and a ‘third space’ outside of work and home where people can create, explore and share knowledge and experience.

Charlottetown’s new public library, the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre, signifies an evolution for the City in offering the diverse modern library experience. In addition to an extensive catalogue of publications and multimedia, the library offers a variety of spaces including a café, music recording studios, a video gaming room, a makers space, meeting rooms, and an event space. With an open concept, the library spaces are arranged alongside a “boulevard” which acts as a central axis and the main passage of navigation through the library.

The project involved an 800sf addition, complete renovation and fit-up of the 33,000sf main floor of the Dominion Building. It additionally features a contemporary design with clean lines, warm wood accents and playful circular elements scattered throughout the space. The circle motif is sighted through circular meeting rooms, children’s program rooms, circulation desks, wayfinding signage and graphic elements. Inclusion and transparency are main themes for the library.

This is reinforced by a new glass ‘face’ on Queen Street allowing the community to see into the space and the inhabitants to look out into the surrounding landscapes. This transparency also translates to the library’s large windows, meeting and program rooms, allowing natural light to flow through the library and providing a sense of airiness.