Kitchener Public Library

Story

The Kitchener Public Library is the public library system for the city of Kitchener, Ontario, Canada. It consists of five libraries; a large Central Library in the downtown core, with four Community Libraries spread out to provide services for the neighbourhoods of Kitchener.HistoryThe main branch of the Kitchener Public Library opened at 85 Queen Street in May 1962. The present library replaced the Berlin Public Library which originally opened in 1884 with a collection of 2,855 volumes on the first floor of the town hall. The Berlin Public Library was moved when it became a became a Carnegie library, opening on January 8, 1904, which was located at Queen and Weber. The Carnegie library was demolished following the opening of the new location in 1962.ExpansionIn 2010 the main branch underwent a $40 million expansion. Completed in 2013, the project increased floor space by 30%, and made the entire building wheelchair accessible. Designed by Levitt Goodman Architects, the building was awarded a 2015 Library Architectural and Design Transformation award by the Ontario Library Association.In 2015 the Kitchener Public Library became the first library in Canada to lend out internet Hotspots.Services Information and reference services Access to full text databases Community information Internet and computer access Virtual reality at the Central location Free wifi at all locations Free wifi hotspots available to borrow Reader's advisory services Programs for children, youth and adults Live music performances Delivery to homebound individuals Interlibrary loan Free downloadable e-books Free downloadable audiobooks Free downloadable music Free livestream movies and TV programs Art gallery featuring local artists at the Central location Musical instrument lending program