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Thank you to everyone who participated in the conversation about the future of our central public library. Your ideas, concerns, and creative suggestions are helping shape a library that reflects the needs and values of the community.
Engagement Snapshot
- Online Engagement Period: June 20 to July 17, 2025
- In-Person Consultation: June 17, 2025
- Engage Brant Page Visits: 690
- Survey Responses: 190 completed surveys
What We Heard
Location Matters
- A majority of respondents preferred a location within 1 kilometre of the current library, with strong support for a site within 600 metres.
- Many emphasized the importance of a central location, ideally within walking distance of schools, downtown shops, and services.
- Some supported heritage sites, while others suggested locations in growing residential areas (e.g., Rest Acres Road or North Paris).
Parking and Accessibility
- Parking was the most commonly mentioned concern. Residents called for ample, accessible, and free parking, including wheelchair-accessible spaces.
- Limited parking at the current location has discouraged use for some. Many residents emphasized that parking must be addressed early in the site selection process.
Programming and Library Features
Top interior priorities included:
- Dedicated flexible program space
- Flexible event space
- Outdoor reading/program areas
For children and teens, respondents were most interested in:
- Family-friendly reading nooks
- Hands-on educational equipment
- Multi-purpose rooms
Additional suggestions included programming for homeschoolers, STEAM/STEM offerings, and intergenerational learning spaces.
Makerspace and Technology
The community showed strong interest in a creative, tech-focused space.
Most-requested elements included:
- Gadgets and tools to borrow
- Digital literacy programs
- Recording and podcast studios
- Computer lab access
Cultural Inclusion and Identity
Participants want to see spaces that reflect Indigenous culture and celebrate the community’s diversity:
- Medicine gardens
- Land acknowledgements and Indigenous artwork
- Smudging rooms and cultural programming
Accessibility was a top priority. Many felt that all-inclusive design features, like ramps, sensory-friendly spaces, and barrier-free technology, should be considered essential, not optional.
Community Reflections
- Many expressed frustration over delays and the cancellation of the Bawcutt Centre project, while others urged the County to move forward responsibly and transparently.
- Residents shared a desire for a library that honours our heritage, is cost-effective, and offers modern, inclusive programming for all ages.
What's Next
The Library Board will consider the community’s input as it identifies potential sites for the new library.
LGA Architectural Partners Inc. will then conduct a site study to assess the sites for suitability as a future library location. LGA’s analysis will consider many aspects, including physical characteristics, parking and accessibility, and any factors that may affect affordability for each site.
Thank you again for helping shape the next chapter of the County of Brant Public Library’s new central branch.
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Public Consultation
Join us for a drop-in event, led by LGA Architectural Partners. The event will include interactive displays, opportunities to share your ideas, and a closer look at possible locations and features for the new Central Branch.
Date: Tuesday, June 17, 2025
Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Community Room at the Paris Fairgrounds
Online Survey
Can’t attend in person? You can still have your say!
Complete the online survey and let us know what you'd like to see in a modern, inclusive, and inspiring library space.
The survey closes, Thursday, July 17, 2025.
Let’s build a library that reflects our community - now and into the future.
Questions?
Have a question or comment about the new Central Public Library Branch? Let us know.
Level of Engagement
For more information, please read the County of Brant's Community Engagement Framework.
