Another refuge for book and library lovers in Greater Victoria is opening this month, offering locals an escape into the world of literature.
As construction wraps up, Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) is eyeing the week of February 21st to open the doors to its newest location in Sooke.
The official grand opening is planned for March, but no date has been confirmed at this time.
Found on Wadams Way, the almost 13,500 square foot circular building has a final collection size of around 35,000 items—double that of the old library, according to VIRL.
Though she finds it was beloved, Mayor Maja Tait says VIRL’s previous location in Sooke just wasn’t big enough to meet the demands of a growing population.
“As anyone who has visited the Sooke region in recent years can attest, the community is developing quickly and is only poised to continue its growth,” Tait said.
“When the doors open and the public experiences it for themselves, all will understand how this new library marks an important milestone in our community’s evolution.”
With a budget of $7.5 million, library funding was secured through a loan from the Municipal Finance Authority to the Capital Regional District.
Boasting four electric vehicle charging stations, high-capacity underground bicycle parking and a roof designed to capture rainwater, VIRL says the new building incorporates several sustainability enhancements.
It also features increased staffing and longer hours, a children’s area, fireplace lounge, laptop bar, study space, bookable rooms and a 3D printer.
As a regional system, VIRL has 39 branches spanning from Sooke and Sidney in the south to Port Hardy, Haida Gwaii and the Central Coast.
