The Isabel Turner Branch will undergo renovations to enhance accessibility and functionality and update the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system. These improvements are vital to maintaining a modern and welcoming environment for all library visitors.
Built in 1997, the Isabel Turner Branch is the second largest branch within the KFPL system with a floor area of 32,000 square feet. This branch is an important community hub in Kingston’s west end that facilitates learning, economic and skill development, creativity, environmental sustainability, social justice and civic placemaking for its residents.
The Isabel Turner Branch is KFPL’s busiest location, generating the highest visitation and circulation totals in the library system. The building has been in service for 25 years and library service, technology, community needs, and accessibility standards have changed significantly during this time. Over its 25 years in service, the branch has evolved to fill a critical role as a community hub in Kingston’s west end. The renovation project will aim to turn the Isabel Turner Branch into a more energy-efficient, sustainable, and accessible space that will continue to deliver key community services and programming.
Background
In June 2023, the City of Kingston’s Facilities & Construction Management Services department (FMCS) issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the renovation. Capital funds for the project’s design phase were included in the 2023 FMCS budget.
In August 2023, the City engaged +VG Architects – The Ventin Group Ltd., a firm with expertise in designing and renovating library and community spaces including the Kingston East Community Centre.
During Winter of 2023 and Spring of 2024, the focus was internal consultation with staff and refining architectural drawings.
Scope
In our commitment to sustainability, the Isabel Turner Branch renovations will incorporate energy-efficient upgrades alongside essential infrastructure improvements. These upgrades include replacing outdated heating, ventilation and electrical systems. The renovations will also enhance accessibility and inclusion with the installation of all-gender washrooms, a new universal washroom on the lower level, and a fully accessible renovation of the existing universal washroom on the main level. Additionally, shelving heights will be lowered, aisles widened and the service desk relocated to improve accessibility. The parking lot will see upgrades such as improvements to accessible parking stalls and new sidewalks for pedestrian safety. Operational improvements will include relocating the service desk closer to the entrance, a reimagining of the Children’s and Teen areas, as well as study rooms on the main level.
Due to the extensive renovations, the Isabel Turner Branch will be closed on October 25, 2024. During this time, library services will be relocated to the temporary Cataraqui Centre Branch. Opening on November 1, 2024, the branch will be situated on the lower level of the Cataraqui Centre shopping mall. The temporary Cataraqui Centre Branch will offer a browsing collection, as well as access to patron reservations, computers, and scanning services.
Budget
The construction budget is expected to be approximately $4.9 million, $300,000 has been budgeted to cover temporary space, leasehold improvements and relocation costs. Funding for furniture, shelving and other equipment will be requested from the City as part of the Library’s 2025 budget request.
Architectural Drawings
The renovated Isabel Turner Branch will feature energy-efficient upgrades and vital infrastructure improvements.
Review the proposed architectural drawings [PDF 293 kb].
Next Steps
Staff are preparing and planning for the operational impacts of the renovation and the move to the temporary location at the Cataraqui Centre, which opens on November 1, 2024.
