Orillia's downtown library declared one of the 'coolest' in Canada

Simcoe.com
Jan. 31, 2017
Frank Matys

Orillia’s public library has been named one of the 15 “coolest” libraries in the country.

The honour arrived courtesy of a Chatelaine magazine article showcasing book-lending buildings that run the design gamut from traditional to avant-garde.

“Awesome,” was library CEO Suzanne Campbell’s assessment of Orillia’s inclusion in the magazine piece. 

Specifically, the national publication gives kudos to Orillia’s library for taking a page from traditional book design by inlaying glass panels with ceramic fretwork that recalls the elaborate artistic flourishes that once adorned book spines.

"It is definitely a jewel downtown."

“The Orillia Public Library mimics this aesthetic with patterns inspired by foliage lining the glass exterior and creating intricate shadows when the sun pours in,” reads the copy that accompanies a photo taken from the building’s upper floor.

Opened in 2012, the downtown building was designed by Perkins + Will and today draws an average of 1,000 visitors a day through its doors.

“It is beautiful architecturally. It is definitely a jewel downtown,” said Campbell. “But it is also really well designed functionally, so that there is space for all kinds of different activities.”

The building boasts multiple design features that grab the eye, from generous expanses of glass that flood the interior with natural light to the cosily engulfing chairs from which the library’s younger readers enjoy a sun-drenched view of the streetscape below.

“The chairs are pretty inviting and actually pretty cool,” Campbell added.

Joining Orillia on the list are libraries in Winnipeg, Montreal, Ottawa, Scarborough, Surrey, B.C., Vancouver, Vaughan, Waterloo, Port Credit, Quebec City, Halifax and Peterborough.

“It’s pretty impressive that we have a library that meets the design standards of libraries that are being built today,” Campbell said. “There are very forward-thinking ways of doing libraries now that focus on how libraries are used by the public, rather than just focusing on book storage.”

Libraries are increasingly viewed as hubs where patrons enjoy access to community activities, technology and programming, Campbell added.

“People are comfortable coming into the building and there is space for them to do whatever activities they want to do,” she said.