Albion-Bolton library staff excited to welcome people back to newly-renovated branch

Branch had been closed since February 2020 due to COVID-19, renovations

By Zachary Roman

A new chapter has begun at the library branch in Bolton.

On June 20, the Caledon Public Library (CPL) proudly reopened its Albion-Bolton branch to the public. The branch had been closed since February of 2020, due to both the COVID-19 pandemic and renovations.

The renovations are now complete and CPL communications manager Mary Maw gave the Citizen a tour of the refreshed branch on June 24, explaining the changes implemented over the past couple of years.

People have missed coming into their hometown library branch, said Maw, and the staff have missed welcoming them in just as much.

Maw said the branch has been busy since it reopened, especially in the evenings. She's been especially happy to see students visiting and hanging out — they seem to be enjoying the reading area on the first floor that features trees and natural light from the outdoors.

In a June 17 media release, CPL's chief librarian and CEO Colleen Lipp commended Albion-Bolton library staff for their hard work while the branch was closed. While people could not come into the branch during the closure, people could still check out items and come and pick them up at the library branch door.

“It's been a long and complex project…” said Lipp. “Library staff deserve endless praise for providing such a high level of service during the construction and pandemic restrictions. We are also grateful for the community's patience as we worked to improve the branch.”

The inside of the Albion-Bolton library branch now has a completely modern feel, and after one walks through the entranceway they are greeted by a bright, open room. The service desk at the branch is now right by its entrance, and it's been redesigned. Private meeting rooms have been added with technology to facilitate hybrid online/in-person meetings and presentations.

Meanwhile, all public spaces on both floors of the library have been treated to new paint, carpets, and furniture. Maw said the comfy new chairs are the perfect place to sit and read.

There is ample space left open on branch walls for local artists — who can become part of CPL's Artful Caledon program for free — to display their work.

Maw emphasized the modern library offers more than books too. At the Albion-Bolton branch people can get musical instruments, seeds for their garden, and even a GoPro camera, for example, all as part of CPL's “Library of Things” initiative.

Maw said improvements at the Albion-Bolton branch represent the CPL's commitment to adapt and provide a place where Caledon residents of all ages can come together to learn and connect.

She added branch renovations contribute to the Caledon Public Library Board's mission to have CPL be the heart of the Caledon community.

Maw has been working for the CPL since its last master plan was implemented, and said it was cool to see the things planned for the Albion-Bolton branch years ago come to fruition.

An official ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the Albion-Bolton branch reopening is planned for July 18 and the public is invited to attend.