“This library belongs to all Airdrie residents.”
That was the consensus from speakers at the soft opening of Inspire, Airdrie’s new multi-use and library facility on September 24. Airdrie City Council, Airdrie Public Library board and project partners gathered for the official ribbon cutting ceremony for the building.
“Today is the start of a new chapter. We have built so much more than a facility, it is a legacy,” says Mayor Peter Brown.
“Inspire will be a place where residents come together to learn, connect, and grow, and I look forward to seeing our community enjoy this incredible new space. It’s a hub for community, collaboration and creativity. To the residents of Airdrie, this is your space, your future.”
While the grand opening for the public is scheduled for October 4, the soft opening marked an important milestone in the delivery of a vibrant hub designed to support learning, arts and community connection in Airdrie.
“Inspire is more than a building. It is a space that will enrich lives, spark creativity and strengthen community for generations to come,” says Michelle Lock, director of community services at the City.
“A project of this scale does not happen without strong partnerships and shared vision. We are grateful to all the contractors, architects and agencies who worked tirelessly to bring Inspire to life. I am proud of what we have built together.”
The $60.5-million project was made possible through collaboration and funding partnerships, including a $10-million contribution from the Canada Community-Building Fund (CCBF) by the Government of Canada and $29.2 million in funding from the Local Government Fiscal Framework (LGFF), formerly known as Municipal Sustainability Initiative, by the Government of Alberta.
According to the City, the project is currently tracking $4.5 million under its original $65 million budget.
“Our government is proud to have supported this project, which will serve as a vibrant hub for learning, creativity, and connection,” said Corey Hogan, Member of Parliament for Calgary Confederation.
“The opening of the facility will bring residents together and create new opportunities for the community well into the future.”
Daniel Nelles, chair of the Airdrie Public Library board, adds that more than 16,000 people had a hand in bringing the facility to fruition.
“Airdrie residents are some of the most active library users in Alberta,” he says.
“This has been many years in the making… The frustration of a space that is too small ends today.”
He adds that the space is one of belonging that includes something for everyone from the community living room, gender-inclusive and accessible bathrooms, large and small meeting facilities and art spaces, a playground, reading room and client study spaces.
“This building is designed to make each and every citizen feel welcome,” he says.
“We view the library as the heart of the community and the services we can offer reflect that as of today!”
To celebrate its official opening with the community, a full month of special events is planned in October, when the facility will be fully operational and open for all to enjoy.
The month-long community celebration includes:
· Public Artists Meet and Greet – October 1
· Community Celebration Day – October 4
· Time Capsule Ceremony – October 7
· Other registered month-long community celebration events – October 11 to 22
Learn more about the new facility and register for events at airdrie.ca/inspire-opening.
