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Shovels in the ground for new Sardis library

Construction has started on Chilliwack's southside library
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Dignitaries break ground at the new Sardis library location beside Twin Rinks on Monday morning.

The Sardis library will be the “newest community hub” on the south-side of Chilliwack once completed early next year.

“We couldn’t be more excited about this new facility,” said Mayor Sharon Gaetz at the ground-breaking celebration Monday morning.

Construction is set to start this week at the Twin Rinks site on Tyson Road.

“Libraries are also important for fostering a love of books and reading, and for developing curiosity about the world around us,” Mayor Gaetz told the crowd.

She quoted Dr. Seuss, one of her “favourite” authors, for inspiration: “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn the more places you’ll go.”

Gaetz also credited the “tremendous work” by members of council, staff, FVRL board and staff, “and of course the countless people in our community who are so passionate about libraries and our city.”

The design-build team of Titan Construction and Craven Huston Powers Architects created a sustainable design for the $2.5 million building, which will conserve natural resources, reduce operating costs and create a high-quality environment, said city officials.

The total library project budget is $3.4 million, including costs like books, and landscaping. It’s scheduled to open in January 2013.

Features of the 10,600-square-foot facility include multi-purpose community space accessible after library hours, an area for adults with a fireplace feature as well as a space for kids.

City officials saved up to pay for the library-building project in advance with their pay-as-you-go philosophy, rather than financing it.

Telus donated $75,000 for the construction through its “Phones for Good” campaign.

“The new Sardis Library is very exciting for both the community and Fraser Valley Regional Library,” said Rob O’Brennan, Chief Administrative Officer for the Fraser Valley Regional Library. “It’s going to be a beautiful facility that will be used and enjoyed by everyone on Chilliwack’s south side.  Congratulations to Chilliwack.”

For more details check out chilliwack.com/main/page.cfm?id=2038.

jfeinberg@theprogress.com

twitter.com/CHWKjourno



Jennifer Feinberg

About the Author: Jennifer Feinberg

I have been a Chilliwack Progress reporter for 20+ years, covering the arts, city hall, as well as Indigenous, and climate change stories.
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