News
Design & Construction Update / November 2024
Saskatoon’s new central library is set to open at 321 2nd Avenue North in 2027. The central library will enhance the livability of Saskatoon by making possible a wide range of innovative learning and entertainment options for residents of all ages. We are excited to share a design that inspires community engagement and civic pride and creates a welcoming and…
New Central Library Construction to Start / May 2024
Let the countdown begin! The new central library will open at 321 2nd Avenue North in the summer of 2027. Our first step will be to remediate the site between July and September, and construction is scheduled to begin in October 2024. We are hosting a groundbreaking ceremony at the new site on Tuesday, Jun 25 at 9:30 am. A…
Construction Contract Award / January 2024
We are excited to announce that Ledcor Construction Limited, one of North America’s largest and most diversified construction companies, has been awarded the construction contract for the new central library. We chose this team because of their approach to the project, their team’s relevant project experience, the experience of their key personnel, their quality management plan, and their experience in…
New Central Library Construction Update / September 2023
In late spring, SPL issued the construction tender for the new central library after both Class A cost estimates we received aligned with the project budget. The construction bids SPL received in late August were substantially beyond the budget available. As a result, SPL has cancelled the construction tender. SPL is committed to building the new central library and working…
Budget & Schedule Update / Class A Cost Estimate / June 2023
Saskatoon Public Library (SPL) completed the final cost estimate for the new central library at 90% completion of the construction documents. We are pleased to report that the project remains on budget. The construction budget is $79.4 million. SPL received two independent Class A cost estimates, which came in at $79.7 million and $81.1 million. The higher of the two…
Budget Update / Class B Cost Estimate / September 2022
SPL communicates cost updates at the end of each design milestone when we have updated drawings and the corresponding updated cost information is available. Working within our budget is a priority for the library. From the outset of this project, SPL has applied rigorous cost control measures to provide the highest level of cost certainty. To this end, we have engaged…
Design Detail What We Heard Report Released / March 2022
Thank you to everyone who participated in consultations during the design detail phase for Saskatoon’s new central library! We’re now finalizing all of the technical requirements and design decisions for this project. This report summarizes feedback we received during public consultations held Jan 26 – Feb 11, 2022. READ THE WHAT WE HEARD DETAIL DESIGN REPORT
New Central Library Schematic Design Released, Consultations Begin / January 2022
Saskatoon Public Library has released the schematic design for the new central library. The schematic design report features an updated exterior rendering, detailed floorplans and information on other key facility features. Read the Schematic Design Report We’re starting the final design phase and we’d like to hear from you. Complete a survey and join us for our last community consultation…
Concept Design of New Central Library Released, Phase Two Consultations Begin / May 2021
Saskatoon Public Library has released the concept design for the new central library. Designed by Alfred Waugh (Formline Architecture) and Stephan Chevalier (Chevalier Morales Architectes), the building’s concept draws inspiration from traditional First Nation and Métis architecture. The exterior of the building references the First Nation tipi, while the interior mass timber structure references the Métis log cabin. The design…
Concept Design Phase Update: What We Heard Report / April 2021
Thank you to everyone who participated in consultations during the concept design phase for Saskatoon’s new central library! This report summarizes the major themes of the input and ideas that we received. The design team participated in many of the Advisory Committee meetings, in all of the virtual conversations with patrons via Zoom, and they received all responses received through…