As the County of Brant continues to grow, so too does the need for a modern library that can serve our expanding community. The Central Branch Library Project isâŻa bold step forward toward a brighter, more connected future.
Modern libraries are more than places to borrow books. They serve as âthird spacesâ â welcoming places outside of home and work or school where people gather to learn, create, connect with others and their community.
The new Central Branch is envisioned as that kind of place: a welcoming, accessible, and sustainable community destination designed to serve Brant today and for generations to come. With expanded collections, technology, flexible programming and gathering spaces, and dedicated areas for different ages and needs, it will be a meet space that provides more opportunities for everyone to experience a library they can call their own.
A New Central Branch for Everyone
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.
Paris is expected to account for a substantial portion of County of Brant's future population growth. At the same time, the community deserves a library equipped to provide a full range of services, programs, technology and community spaces.
A new Central Branch would provide approximately 26,250 square feet, more than double the space of the current branch, creating the capacity to serve a growing community and adapt as needs continue to change with access for everyone, learning and literacy, community connection, and environmental responsibility for a growing community. The Project is intended to improve the level of service available to all residents, ensuring equitable access to Library resources and opportunities for communities across the County of Brant.
Project Timeline
| Project Phase | Key Deliverables & Milestones | Target Completion |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1: Initiation | Property acquisition, Site analysis, due diligence studies, architectural firm selection for concept design | Q1 2027 |
| Phase 2: Planning and Design | Detailed Design, Engineering, Specialty consultants, Class budgeting, Site preparation, Zoning approval | Q3 2027 |
| Phase 3: Construction | Shovel-in-the-ground build process through to facility fit-out and siteworks | Q4 2028 |
| Phase 4: Opening | Commissioning, collection migration, and public grand opening. | Q1 2029 |
Project Budget
The new Central Library Branch is projected to cost between $22.7 million and $28.3 million. The difference, or contingency, is calculated as a responsible and realistic method of budgeting during this economic period, estimating for potential increases due to fluctuations in material costs, like steel, and changing tariffs. Soft costs such as architectural design, engineering, insurance, permits, and furniture total approximately 17% of the total project budget. Hard costs, including land, demolition, construction, and paving, total approximately 82% of the total project budget. Administrative costs for the project are less than 2% of the total project budget.
Needs Assessment
In 2025, the County of Brant Public Library retained LGA Architectural Partners to examine best practices and metrics for a Central Branch Library, with municipalities comparable to the County of Brant system. This research provided the foundation for the County of Brant Public Library New Central Branch Needs Assessment 2025. Read the Report.
Media Releases
| July 30, 2026 - Media Release |
| Central Branch Library Secures Council Approval |
| March 14, 2025 - Media Release |
| Library Board Moves Forward with New Central Library Planning |
Reports and Studies
| November 2025 |
| County of Brant Public Library - Central Branch Site Study |
| June 2023 |
| New Main Branch Library Report to County of Brant Council |
| October 2018 |
| Main Site Sub-Committee Report to the Library Board |
| November 2017 |
| Library Site Selection Study Draft Report |
| August 2016 |
| Paris Branch Library Facility Planning Study: Final Report |
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
| Why do we need a new Central Branch Library? |
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The current main branch was built in 1904 for a population of approximately 3,200 residents. More than 120 years later, both our community and the role of libraries have evolved significantly. With the County of Brant's population expected to grow to over 59,000 over the next 25 years, the current building no longer provides the space, accessibility, or infrastructure needed to meet the community's needs today or into the future. A new Central Branch Library will create opportunities for residents of all ages to learn, connect, create, and participate in community life. The library is envisioned as a welcoming, accessible destination that will support expanded programming, new technologies, flexible gathering spaces, and lifelong learning opportunities. The project will also create space for community events, cultural experiences, collaboration, innovation, and quiet study, while providing the flexibility to adapt to the changing needs of future generations. By planning for the future today, the Library can continue to serve as a place where curiosity is inspired, connections are made, and the community comes together. |
| What will happen to the current library building at 12 William Street? |
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The building at 12 William Street is owned by the County of Brant. Future plans for the property will be determined by the County. Residents seeking additional information are encouraged to contact the County of Brant's Planning & Development Department. |
Library Board
| Library Board |
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Project Team - Library |
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For detailed information about the Central Branch Library Project, please reach out by email Kelly Bernstein, CEO or Karen Scott, Director of Operations or call 519-442-2433.