Future Central Branch Library Has a Place to Call Home

Brant, ON October 1, 2026 – The County of Brant Public Library Board is thrilled to announce that the new Central Branch Library will be located at 199 Grand River St. North in Paris. This marks an exciting and significant step forward in creating a new library that can serve the community for generations to come. With Council’s approval, the County recently acquired the property to become the location of the new library.

The future Central Branch will be a welcoming and accessible place for residents to gather, learn, connect, and grow – and a community destination that reflects how people use modern libraries today and in the future.

Of the dozens of sites considered, the 3.7-acre property at 199 Grand River St. North was selected for its proximity to downtown, reflecting what the Library heard through public consultation about the importance of a central, walkable location. Situated at a gateway to Paris’ downtown core and within walking distance of local schools and retirement communities, the site offers an exciting opportunity to create a civic and cultural destination that feels connected to the community around it.  The property also offers possibilities for outdoor and green spaces to extend the library experience beyond the building itself, as well as ample parking.

"For many years, our community has imagined what a new library could make possible. This location brings that vision one important step closer to becoming something people can see, shape and ultimately experience,” said Fred Gladding, Chair of the County of Brant Public Library Board. “This is an exciting milestone, but what makes the opportunity particularly meaningful is that the community will have a role in helping us shape what comes next.

The property purchase follows County of Brant Council's unanimous approval of Phase 1 of the Central Branch Library Project Plan in July 2026. With a location now secured, the project will move into the site planning and concept design stage. 

As always, community input will play a vital role in shaping the future of the New Central Library in Paris. Residents will be invited to share how they imagine using the space and what would make it meaningful to them. Details about those opportunities will be shared in the coming months.

“We are pleased to see this important project moving forward with a site now selected for the new Central Branch,” said Mayor David Bailey. “Our libraries offer valuable programs, services and resources for County residents of all ages, and this new location will provide the space and amenities needed to serve our growing community for years to come. I look forward to hearing input from residents as we move forward with this exciting project.”

The current Paris Branch has served the community since 1904. More than 120 years later, the building no longer provides the space, accessibility or infrastructure required to meet current or future community needs. As the County of Brant continues to grow, so too does the need for a library that can serve an expanding community.  The Paris Branch welcomes over 70,000 in-person visits each year, hosts hundreds of library and community events, and is the administrative headquarters for the Library’s digital and outreach services.  

Council has approved funding for phase 1 of the project, which includes engaging project management and architectural professionals to undertake technical and site analysis and conceptual design.  Pending future Council approvals, construction is projected for late 2027 to 2028, with an anticipated opening date of winter 2029.  The total project budget for all phases is estimated between $23 million and $28 million.  

Residents can follow the Central Branch Library Project to see the latest progress, and learn about opportunities to participate.

For information about the Central Branch Library Project, please email:

Media Contact:

Kelly Bernstein, CEO
County of Brant Public Library
kelly.bernstein@brant.ca

Project Contact:
Karen Scott, Director of Operations
County of Brant Public Library