Visitors to the Bob Harkins Branch of the Prince George Public Library (PGPL) now have a brand new entrance.
The attractive, modern and accessible entrance has been a long-time wish for the library and its patrons and is now officially opened in downtown Prince George.
The project involved the installation of a two-and-a-half story, roughly 5,000 sq-ft addition to the north side of the building, which will increase the accessibility and the security of the building.
It includes:
- An elevator with access from both sides providing access from the parking area, plaza level, main floor, and second floor
- Improved stairs for access from the main lobby to the main floor
- Windows to maximize natural light and an open atmosphere
- Exterior entries are accessible through automatic sliding glass doors
- Enhanced accessible parking and drop off zone at parking level
Earlier this year, as part of the operation, the city undertook a renovation to the library’s circulation area. The part of the operation included the installation of a new circulation desk countertop.
Crews also recently installed a sidewalk connecting the parking lot to Canada Games Plaza, which will be the first in Prince George to be heated with renewable energy.
Concrete was poured around pipes that carry hot water from the Downtown Renewable Energy System. The heat will help to melt snow and ice from the sidewalk in the winter.
“The beautiful new entrance is going be a very welcome addition for many, many library patrons,” says Lyn Hall, Mayor of Prince George in a news release.
"This is a huge day in the history of this highly valued civic facility and I think that the building’s famous namesake, Bob Harkins, would be extremely pleased with this fantastic upgrade. Council wishes to thank residents for their patience with all of the construction activities, the Library Board and staff for the perseverance they have shown in getting us to this point and all of the construction crews for their hard work.”
Construction of the new library amenities have also been a “made in PG” operation as both the architect, Chernoff Thompson Architects North, and construction company, Datoff Bros. Construction, are based in Prince George.
