Eastside Branch

Learn more about the Eastside Branch which is now open!

About the Eastside Branch

Located at the RIM Park Manulife Sportsplex at 2001 University Ave. East, the Eastside Branch is a vibrant, contemporary space, designed by John MacDonald Architect Inc. and Ward99 Architects Inc., to reflect the community that surrounds it. With soaring ceilings, inviting lounge areas, light-filled interiors and an outdoor nature courtyard, the newest addition to the Waterloo Public Library system is a stunning gathering space for the community.

The Eastside Branch is now open! Learn more about our locations and hours here.

Photo Gallery

Eastside Branch Grand Opening

Features of the Branch

Forest of Curiosities Graphic Installation Icon
A breathtaking 600+ square foot installation designed by Lucy Bilson as an exploration and celebration of the natural spaces which surround the Eastside Branch.
Naturespace Icon
Naturespace
A natural outdoor space that will be used for dynamic programming and educational activities for all ages.
Digispace Icon
Digispace
Digital studio with high-end audio and video components which can be leveraged for both music and podcast recording.
Gamerspace Icon
Gamerspace
A multi-use, defined area that will allow for public computer use as well as a social gaming environment.
Collaboratory Icon
Collaboratory
An open, flexible space that will encourage and support community programming and maker activities.
Children's Area Icon
Children's Area
A vibrant, interactive space providing children with opportunities for discovery and delight.
Program Room Icon
Program Room
Flexible space to facilitate programs and events.
Study Rooms Icon
Study Rooms
Two bookable spaces designed for private or small group study.
Bring Your Own Device Bar Icon
Bring Your Own Device Bar
A dedicated area for you and all of your devices to plug in and comfortably work, study or relax.
Urban Lounge Icon
Urban Lounge
Common area for relaxing, featuring a fireplace focal point.
Makerspace Icon
Makerspace
A collaborative space featuring equipment, tools and devices to encourage making, idea generation and creative learning.
Trombe Wall Icon
Trombe Wall
Provides passive solar heating for the building.

Donations

Donations to the Eastside Branch will be used in a multitude of ways, with a focus on expanding and invigorating our programs, services, collections and spaces. Thank you to everyone who supported the creation of our newest branch. 

Please note that the last date to donate to the Eastside Branch project was Monday, April 18. However, general donations to WPL are always welcomed and appreciated. To learn more about donating to WPL, click here.

Learn More

Learn More About the Eastside Branch

Media Releases

PDF iconApril 5, 2022 - Waterloo Public Library announces grand opening of new Eastside Branch

September 21, 2020 - City Council awards tender for construction of the Eastside Branch Library

December 16, 2019 - Waterloo Public Library unveils final design of Eastside Branch Library

PDF iconNovember 21, 2017 - Waterloo Public Library to expand to the east side of the city
 

Feasibility Study

In September 2016, studioCANOO Architecture was contracted by the Waterloo Public Library and City of Waterloo as a Consultant to lead a Feasibility Study which would address the following objectives:

  • Assess the proposed site for the Eastside Branch Library
  • Provide conceptual/schematic drawings for a new library building at the proposed site
  • Collaborate with the Waterloo Public Library and City of Waterloo to create a public engagement plan
  • Provide a final report and recommendation in partnership with Waterloo Public Library and City of Waterloo to City Council in November 2017

The Eastside Branch Library project team (comprised of WPL and City staff members) has been working collaboratively with studioCANOO to advance the Feasibility Study.

Based on the work to date, the project team is recommending that an approximately 11,500 sq.ft, one-storey, building addition and approximately 2,200 sq.ft renovation of existing space (total Library floor area of approximately 13,700 sq.ft) on the east side of the RIM Park Manulife Financial Sportsplex and Healthy Living Centre be advanced to the conclusion of the Feasibility Study.

Background

Since 2015 , the Waterloo Public Library and the City of Waterloo have been working in partnership on the Eastside Branch Library Project.

To plan for Eastside Branch Library service, the Waterloo Public Library Board commissioned Lighthouse Consulting in 2015 to undertake a needs assessment. The goal of the study was to engage the community to articulate their vision for the proposed Eastside Branch Library and Main Library. This was achieved through focus groups and an online survey. Recurring themes for the Eastside Branch included strong emphasis on technology-based programs and services, inspiring space to meet and gather, tween/teen space, accessible location, free parking and opportunities for community based partnerships.

On June 20, 2016, City of Waterloo Council approved the RIM Park Manulife Financial Sportsplex and Healthy Living Centre as a preferred location for a potential new Eastside Branch Library, the specific location, design and building amenities to be determined via ongoing review, a Feasibility Study including but not limited to schematic/conceptual design options, and public engagement.

Construction Progress

Take a bird's-eye view of the construction process of the Eastside Branch with our amazing drone videos. Click here to view the vidoe playlist. 

Contact Us

Eastside Branch
519-886-1310 x410
http://m.wpl.ca/eastside
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