FAQs

Late 2018.

Construction is expected to begin in early 2017.

LEED certification provides independent, third-party verification that a building was designed and built using strategies aimed at achieving high performance in key areas of human and environmental health, such as:

• Sustainable site development
• Water savings
• Energy efficiency
• Materials selection
• Indoor environmental quality

Since 2010, the Capilano branch has been affected by numerous elevator outages as well as a significant mall renovations. As the construction on Capilano Mall is nearing completion, the new stores and access to public transit, the Capilano branch has seen a 23% increase in visits from 2014 to 2015 despite significant challenges accessing the second floor space.

A new branch will provide consistent and easier access to library services for Capilano community members and we anticipate that library use will increase even more once the new more accessible branch is open. Our estimates show that new branch is expected to serve approximately 167,158 visitors annually, up from 139,298 today.

Typically the only removal of existing curb and gutter will be to provide curb crossings for library access. The budget does not allow for funds to replace this type of infrastructure unless absolutely necessary. The following is a preliminary list of recommended improvements:

• New boulevard walk on the east side of 67 Street from 101 Avenue to 98 Avenue
• Improvements to the transit stop on 101 Avenue

Yes. To help with traffic flow, a one-way street northbound on 67 Street between 99 and 101 Avenue will be converted to a two-way operation. This will take place prior to the start of construction, which is scheduled for early 2017.

The entrance to the new library is less than a block away from nearby bus stops. Users of the existing Capilano library walk about 400 feet from the bus stop to the mall entrance; users of the new library will walk about 550 feet and will now have ground floor access, access making it easier for those with young children, strollers and mobility issues to access the building.

Based on benchmarking data, it was determined that the library will need approximately 36 parking spaces to accommodate customers who drive.

The plan for the library is bigger than the footprint of the old Fire Hall. Because of the space required to build the new branch, using the Fire Hall site would have resulted in additional challenges including a very narrow parking lot that would have been difficult to access. The current location balances a number of considerations, including surrounding buildings, parking lot access, and the nearby ravine.

The site was chosen because of its proximity to the ravine and the connections that it offers to the wider river valley system. Additionally a review of the area showed very little land in the neighborhood for the construction of new buildings.

No. In fact research shows the opposite. A study from the University of Maine shows that homes located within one quarter of a mile of a library were worth 7.7% more than comparable homes located further away from libraries.

No, the land where the Capilano Library is planned has not been rezoned. This area is zoned Metropolitan Recreation Zone (A) and libraries are a discretionary use under this zone.

The Makerspace will have items like a 3D printer and computers with specialized software enabling customers to create. As technology changes new tools and equipment will be added.

The new program room will be approximately 800 square feet which is big enough for 70 people including adjacent outdoor space for events. The current program room can only seat up to 42 people.

Along with our great collections, services, and programs, the plans for the new library include ground level access, a larger community programming room, a 24 hour material return slot, quiet study space, and a Makerspace.

The new branch will be approximately 10,000 square feet which is similar in size to the current location.