Revamped Oak Bay library to open Tuesday

The Oak Bay Branch of the Greater Victoria Public Library is set to open its doors at 10 a.m. Tuesday after being shut down in mid-January when dust contaminated with asbestos was found in an isolated area of a work room.

Testing done by the District of Oak Bay showed that there was no exposure to asbestos to the public or staff.

During the closure to get rid of the asbestos, the library underwent minor renovations that included carpet replacement, installing energy-efficient LED lighting, painting and putting in spray-foam insulation at roof level.

It was initially thought the branch would reopen on Feb. 6.

Adjacent sites like the Oak Bay Volunteer Services Society, the Hampshire Apartments and the Monterey Recreation Centre were not affected.

“The library is an integral part of our Oak Bay community, and we recognize how much it was missed during the closure,” said Mayor Kevin Murdoch.

“We would like to thank the community for their patience and understanding during the renovation period. We look forward to welcoming the community back to the Oak Bay Branch.”

The library has been in the municipality since 1971 and is one of the busiest branches in the GVPL system. It regularly ranks in the top three in in-person visits and circulation.

“Libraries are the hub of any community, providing access to information, educational resources, and a safe and welcoming space for all,” said Oak Bay Coun. Andrew Appleton, who is also the GVPL chair. “The district and GVPL worked hard to minimize the disruption caused by the closure.”

GVPL chief executive Maureen Sawa thanked Oak Bay for providing space for a popup branch while the regular library was closed.

The GVPL and Oak Bay will offer free tea, coffee, sugar cookies and GVPL book bags at Tuesday’s reopening.

For more about library hours and services visit gvpl.ca.