This major expansion and renovation will double the size of the West District Library, the second-highest circulating branch in the Ottawa Public Library system, and create welcoming, engaging and technology-enabled public spaces awash in natural light. The two-storey addition establishes a far more substantial visual presence for the library, welcoming patrons with a transparent facade of floor-to-ceiling glass and an entrance terrace with seating areas and naturalized gardens. Inside, the prime public areas are arranged along the front window wall, including a dramatic double-height reading area and a feature staircase leading to the second floor. Spaces for children and youth are visually and acoustically separated, and are outfitted with comfortable lounge furniture and study areas for individuals and groups. Storytime space overlooks a magical treed outcrop and a future children’s garden.

You can see more photos in our featured gallery.

Ottawa West End Library at dusk

Main elevation of the beaverbrook library

Detail of the wood panels and glazing on the front wall

Double height circulation and reading areas

Detail of the facade at dusk

Double-height seen from the feature staircase

Reading room and double-height space

This major expansion and renovation will double the size of the West District Library, the second-highest circulating branch in the Ottawa Public Library system, and create welcoming, engaging and technology-enabled public spaces awash in natural light. The two-storey addition establishes a far more substantial visual presence for the library, welcoming patrons with a transparent facade of floor-to-ceiling glass and an entrance terrace with seating areas and naturalized gardens. Inside, the prime public areas are arranged along the front window wall, including a dramatic double-height reading area and a feature staircase leading to the second floor. Spaces for children and youth are visually and acoustically separated, and are outfitted with comfortable lounge furniture and study areas for individuals and groups. Storytime space overlooks a magical treed outcrop and a future children’s garden.