Complex now focus of new Aylmer library

In a surprise change of direction at their April 7 meeting, Aylmer councillors changed their minds on where a new library should be located.

A four to three vote was approved on a motion to partner with Malahide to enter into an agreement with Elgin County to utilize meeting space at East Elgin Community Complex to establish a new, expanded Aylmer library.

The motion negated, for now, the previous direction over the past several months from council to locate the new library in a building to be constructed immediately south of Old Town Hall Library.

  • Pat

    While I agree that something must be done with the complex, I am not convinced that it should be the location of the new library.
    When there are events held at the complex now there is not really enough parking for the current usage. How are you going to ensure that there is parking for everyone who wishes to go to the library. Some may say that the library wouldn’t be open much during the hours that other events are held. What about Saturdays when there are hockey tournaments? Another concern is that there is only one access to the complex with traffic turning out onto a major highway.
    I can only imagine many of our seniors becoming frustrated with the lack of parking, and the concerns of making a safe exit from the complex .
    Now how about the pedestrians? It is a hike out there and to my knowledge there are no safe crossing areas on No. 3 Highway, so again we have an unsafe condition that needs further consideration. I really hope that all concerned take the time to fully research this.

    Has anyone considered space at the old Imperial Tobacco Plant?

  • Katrina

    Aylmer does not have any public transit and most residents are retired people. Putting the library on the out skirts of town is a horrible idea!! That is too far and dangerous for the young and the elderly to walk especially in poor weather conditions. Not to mention the way some people drive when they hit that end of town. Definitly not a decision made by the community!!

  • Mary Dancey Clarke

    This makes perfect sense, reflecting the study of LeisurePlan. The Complex is underutilized and over-staffed. The kitchen could be rented and a Seniors’ programme initiated on the 2nd floor; also a real walking programme started. So much potential – hope it materializes!

  • Kelly

    Finally someone on Aylmer council willing to at least explore the idea!! All Aylmerites need to do is look to their north east neighbours in Malahide (SPRINGFIELD) to see how a library move can work! We, in Springfield, were not impressed with the move of our library from the centre of our Village where kids could walk from school or home in a short distance. It is inconvenient?? Yes. It is out of the way? Yes. BUT … Four years later our Springfield Library is BOOMING with more space, more programs and more circulation. If done properly and with POSITIVE input it CAN BE ACHIEVED! At least consider the option!! EECC needs to cut its deficit and this is one sure way with a continuing rental agreement.

  • John Longfellow

    It is about time Aylmer council uses their heads when it comes to spending tax payers money. Although the complex may not be the best place for a new Library, it is far less expensive than a New building which Aylmer does not need.
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