Sophie Demers

LJI Reporter

During the June 4 plenary meeting, assistant director of Gatineau’s Service des arts, de la culture et des lettres Sonia Blouin presented the proposed new budget that would allow for the proper maintenance of the new Constance-Provost building as well as cover operations and administrative costs.

The Constance-Provost is replacing the previous Place des Pionniers building in Old Aylmer, and it will be the home of the Lucy-Faris Library and the Centre de Service Aylmer when its construction is complete.

The maintenance budget needs an additional $806,000. This was calculated based on maintenance needs and industry standards which include 2% of building costs, plus 1% for a building that is LEED certified. The maintenance costs will be increased linearly to reach an extra $806,000 in 2031.

In terms of programs and services, the current staff is insufficient to meet the library’s needs, which will triple in size in the new building and increase their programs and services. To hire the additional seven librarians and technicians needed for the library, an additional $792,232 is required. This need is supported by the BiblioQUALITÉ report which stated that Gatineau needs more librarians and technicians to provide quality library services to its citizens.

Lastly, $141,350 is needed for a variety of expenses including equipment, stationery, training, collection, and digital resources, among others.

The library is set to open either in Fall of 2025 or Winter 2026. The planned budget for a 2025 opening is estimated at $568,367. The planned budget for 2026 is $1,121,582. Gatineau’s Service des arts, de la culture, et des lettres highlights that this budget would allow them to improve service for citizens, add more services such as multifunctional rooms, work rooms, etc. They also believe that this will allow them to reach out to individuals who do not use the library and develop services for teenagers and seniors.

Although the budget must still be approved by the city, many councillors, including Gatineau mayor Daniel Champagne, voiced their support.

“Libraries are much more than just books; they are a social hub for the sector. Especially for Aylmer that is developing quickly,” said Steven Boivin, Aylmer Councillor. “It can be a social place for elderly people, breaking the isolation. It’s a place to meet people, and it fosters community.”

Photo: Digital image of the future Constance-Provost building that is currently being built.

Photo Credit: DMA Architecture