Government of Yukon
Archives
FOR RELEASE #05-018
January 28, 2005
New Look Planned For Whitehorse Public Library
WHITEHORSE - Renovations, including new flooring, painting and layout changes, have begun at Whitehorse Public Library.
"The Whitehorse Public Library hasn’t seen a major renovation since 1991/92," Community Services Minister Glenn Hart said. "It's time for a new look, even if it does involve moving the entire library collection."
The library will be open during the renovations except for a ten-day to two-week closure beginning Feb. 14 to install the flooring. Funds invested in the renovation will total $132,000.
"Whitehorse Public Library staff plan to make all operations and services as available as possible by organizing the renovations in phases," Hart added. "I hope that everyone can bear with us for the short term while we make improvements for the benefit of all."
Public reference services and services to the community libraries will be maintained even while the library is closed, but there may be some delays in returning telephone calls and e-mail messages. Bookings will not be accepted for the meeting rooms during the renovations because these rooms will be needed as storage for the library's 75,000 books and reference materials while the new flooring is being installed. Exam proctoring, audiovisual equipment rentals and use of the assisted technology computer will also be affected. Public Internet access will be available except for the closure beginning Feb. 14.
"Whitehorse Public Library recognizes that there will be disruptions and apologizes for the inconvenience during the renovations," Julie Ourom, the Public Libraries Managers said. "At various times, the library may be noisy, access to collections and services may be limited, and the usual seating may not be available. Library staff will do their best to provide as many services as possible during this time."
For updates on the availability of specific library services, contact the library at (867) 667-5239 or access the Web site at www.gov.yk.ca/depts/community/libraries/index.html.
The Whitehorse Public Library Board is planning a grand opening of the renovated library in March.
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| Contact: | |
| Albert Petersen | Brenda Wale |
| Cabinet Communications | Community Services Communication |
| (867) 633-7961 | (867) 667-5941 |
| albert.petersen@gov.yk.ca | brenda.wale@gov.yk.ca |