I have been thinking about the location for a new Main Library and would like to offer a few comments.
The current building could be a good place for the Civic Museum. It would probably need a minimal amount of renovation, has parking and the building could probably accommodate other volunteer community organizations.
The Baker Street site should be developed with a parking garage that could be below an/or above ground, with the maximum number of floors built now. It could be situated at the North end of the site. The remainder of the site should be developed for housing. In looking at the size of the property and adjacent apartment buildings would it be possible to erect three apartment buildings?.
One should be geared to low income, the next as reasonably priced rentals opened to everyone and the third as a condominium. The selling of the condos would help in the financing of the subsidized housing building and the rental s would be self financing. These buildings should have as many floors as possible,have in-unit storage and laundry.They should be environmentally and energy efficient. Retail space should occupy the first floor facing Baker Street and Church Lane and rented office space for the 2nd floors. This mix would satisfy many increasing housing needs, would contribute to having people living downtown, be economically feasible and impart a new dynamic to the Downtown for a very long time.Where should the Main Library be located? On the Co-Operators site!
What a perfect location and an opportunity to positively develop the under used and unsightly area. A new building that is esthetically pleasing and completely environmentally and energy efficient would augment the library’s role tor educate. The building could be located along Woolwhich Street,curving around to McDonnell Street with access from the current cross-walk light to the back of the building.As mall parking area would still be needed to accommodate handicap parking and for people who are just dropping off books.
The building should be a model of environmental construction in material used and method of construction,. It should be a local showcase of energy efficiency with features such as waste water recycling,a living roof , solar panels and yes even a wind electrical generator!This is an excellent opportunity to solve three building issues and make it a win win solution for all, to show leadership and place the City of Guelph at the forefront of ongoing urban renewal.It is a time to be bold and initiate positive solutions for everyone. LL