On December 9, 2025, the Wollaston Public Library Board presented Wollaston Township Council with a business case to partner with the Township to build a new library facility at 5477 Centre Street, Coe Hill. This township property is located beside the municipal playground and the Township Fire Hall.

Council rescinded its previous resolution to declare 5477 Centre Street as surplus property and agreed to work with the Library Board on a municipal business partnership to build a library on this land.

Overview of the Wollaston Public Library Board Proposal

• The Library Board proposes to build a modern new 2,000 square-foot accessible and energy-efficient library at 5477 Centre Street, Coe Hill (Township-owned land)
• The Township will retain ownership of this property
• The Library Board will lead a fundraising campaign for grant applications, donations and community fundraising activities to fund a new library building on this site
• Once the Library is built, the municipality will own the building
• The project plan outlines a minimal Township financial contribution (which should be limited to legal costs and in-kind staff support)
• The estimated cost of the building project is $593,630 (at $200/sq. ft.) or $823,630 (at $300/sq. ft), including design, engineering, permitting, site servicing, energy-efficiency costs, and a 15% contingency
  • Precise costing will be determined during the planning process

Why a New Library is Needed

• Our current facility is undersized and outdated
• There are no washrooms or running water
• The building does not meet accessibility standards and is not energy efficient
• There is a growing demand for programs, services, and community space

Key Features of the New Library

• There will be a fully accessible washroom with diaper-changing area
• Space will be dedicated for children’s and reading areas
• There will be a meeting room and program space
• The energy-efficient design will include modern heating, cooling, lighting, and IT systems
• It will be adjacent to an outdoor community space (the municipal park)

Community Benefits:  More program space for all ages

• The Library will be a welcoming space for learning, leisure and connection
• Access to technology and resources will be improved
• There will be space for community partners, services and local businesses

Project Timelines

2026:               Planning, approvals and fundraising launch
2026-2027:      Design and grant applications
2028:               Construction
2029:               Grand Opening

If fundraising takes longer than expected, the project timeline will be extended until funds are secured to complete the project.

Signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to Advance the Partnership

On March 10, 2026, Council signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Wollaston Public Library Board.

The purpose of this MOU is to confirm the Township of Wollaston’s support for the Wollaston Public Library Board to proceed with applying for grants and other external funding.

The Library Board acknowledges that no construction, site alteration or financial commitment may proceed without all required municipal approvals and formal agreements being executed, and will keep the Township informed of major funding submissions, decisions, and material changes to project scope.

The MOU is an expression of good faith and shared intent suitable for submission with grant and funding applications.  In addition, the MOU:

• Confirms municipal awareness of and support for the proposed project in principle
• Does not constitute a legally binding agreement for construction, land tenure, or financing
• Does not create any financial, legal, or contractual obligations for either party unless and until formal agreements are approved and executed