Could a new library be in Amherstburg’s future?

A new library is not imminent, but Councillor Molly Allaire wants a report on “future opportunities” on the situation.

While it isn’t likely a new Amherstburg library is in the near future, there was support from town council to at least get it on the drawing board.

Town council approved a motion from Councillor Molly Allaire to direct administration to report back on future opportunities that may exist to relocate the Amherstburg branch of the Essex County library from the Carnegie building and to send a letter to both Essex County council and the Essex County Library Board “to request consideration for monies to be set aside for future funding in relation to fit up costs associated with a new Amherstburg library branch.”

Allaire said she is a frequent library user but said she has been going there her entire life.

“It’s falling apart,” she said. “There’s constant maintenance.”

Allaire said people loves the squeaky floors heading downstairs and the memories associated with the building but there are challenges such as a lack of space and accessibility. 

“The amount of people we get going through our library compared to the size it actually is, (that’s) outstanding,” she said.

Library staff were praised by Allaire, saying there are a number of programs over and above just checking out books. Allaire said putting the library in the Libro Centre or a new town hall could be suggestions.

Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb, also a member of the Essex County Library Board, said he was supportive of the motion.

“While we do have a gorgeous, historic Carnegie Library, one of the other things we’re missing out of is enough square footage for all the programming the Essex County Library provides,” he said.

People are turned away from programs because there’s not enough room, Gibb stated.

There are accessibility challenges, Gibb also stated.

Even though he supported the motion, Gibb added it would be “a massive expense” to relocate the library.

“I’m supportive of it but I am also reminding council that at budget time, we have to get our priorities straight. We can’t do everything. The taxpayers’ pocket is not a bottomless pit,” he said. “I think it’s a great idea and we put it on the list of other great wishes that we have.”

Councillor Diane Pouget said it sounds like a good idea but “I have to be realistic.” There are other projects such as the new fire hall, the expansion of the water treatment plant, replacing infrastructure and a new town hall.

“Our residents are extremely worried about the uncertainty and fear about facing these dooming tariffs that could have a devastating impact on their livelihood. Now is not the time to put the pressure on our taxpayers with another want instead of a need,” she said.

Pouget said taxes have risen by ten per cent over two years with high debt and concerns over reserves. Water and wastewater rates are also “extremely high,” she added.

Councillor Peter Courtney didn’t know where the money would come from, although he was intrigued by the idea.

“It’s going to take a lot of money and we just don’t have it,” he said.

Allaire said she simply wants a report and to let the County of Essex know that they know “we’re working towards a better future for them.” She said she understood funding issues, but believed the library is a good priority for the town.

Pouget had earlier expressed concern over the condition of window sills at the branch. A report will come back to town council on the matter.

Could a new library be in Amherstburg’s future?

By Ron Giofu