Downtown library seeking $50 million in upgrades to keep lights on

The Regina Public Library (RPL) says its downtown facility is in need of $50 million in repairs in order to keep the doors open in the future.

A report being made to a city committee Wednesday says various pieces of infrastructure like electrical work, roof repairs and upgrades to the heating system all need to be completed in order to keep the library open.

The report outlines the current facility was built to serve a population of 110,000 people. According to Statistics Canada’s 2021 census, Regina’s population was 249,217.

While the upgrades wouldn’t expand or change the facility, they will help bring the library up to code.

The RPL board of directors said it reviewed assessments, consulted with the public and took into consideration what’s best for customers and the community.

980 CJME reached out to the presenters for comment on the request from the city, but RPL board chair Sean Quinlan said library officials will speak following their presentation Wednesday.