NEWS RELEASE: City of Coquitlam Purchases Building for New City Centre Library

COQUITLAM, BC, February 16, 2011 – The City of Coquitlam has purchased the ground floor portion of a building located at 1169 Pinetree Way to relocate and expand the City Centre Public Library. Coquitlam City Council approved $15 million in funding in this year’s budget to accommodate the much needed space for a new library in the city centre neighbourhood which continues to enjoy ongoing expansion.

“A new space for our City Centre Library has been a longstanding priority. This is a
valuable step forward in ensuring our City facilities meet the needs of our community,” says Mayor Richard Stewart. “This particular building gave us an opportunity to realize that goal at a lower cost and within a shorter timeframe. It’s definitely a win-win.”

The City has conducted extensive research on the building’s infrastructure including
structural reports, a building envelope inspection, and mechanical, plumbing and
heating inspections. The City will take possession of the building, which has over 90
available parking spaces, on June 28, 2011.

“Our public has been telling us for some time that our existing City Centre library is too small and difficult to access,” commented Rhian Piprell, Director Coquitlam Public
Library. “My board and I are very excited to have the opportunity to design and create a new main library in the centre of the city. This new facility will meet the needs of the citizens of Coquitlam into the future.” The Chairman of the Coquitlam Library Board, John Meneghello echoed those comments, "The Mayor and council have shown managerial courage and conviction during difficult economic times to make this decision."

Coquitlam has two libraries: the recently renovated Poirier Branch at 575 Poirier Street; and the City Centre branch currently located at 3001 Burlington. Both branches provide a variety of materials and services, which include: DVDs, music CDs, books on CD and tape; downloadable audiobooks and ebooks; online databases; free wireless and internet access computers; adult, teen and children's programs; and delivery service for the disabled.

For more information, contact:
Richard Stewart, Mayor
Phone: 604-927-3001

Strategic Plan 2010 - 2015

Annual Report 2010 (PDF 3.07 MB)