New Main Branch

County of Brant Public Library and County of Brant announce historic location of new main library

September 24, 2021

The futures of two significant projects in the County of Brant align this week. The County of Brant Public Library and the County of Brant are excited to announce that the new Main Branch Library will be built on the site of the Bawcutt Centre. 

Located at 13 Burwell Street in Paris, Ontario, the Bawcutt Centre was built in 1854 as the Paris Town Hall and is one of the oldest civic Gothic Revival-style buildings in Canada. Once at the heart of its community, the building will be restored as a cultural cornerstone for County of Brant residents. It was designated a National Historic Site in 2020. 

“The County of Brant Public Library has been searching for a site for its new Main Branch Library since 2013,” explains Library Board Chair Fred Gladding. “This location allows us to create a community hub that embraces diversity and encourages curiosity, discovery, and literacy. We are honoured to preserve its history and build a central library that reflects our community’s growth and needs.”  

The new Main Branch Library will feature a blend of old and new elements. Accessible, open community spaces, quiet study rooms, and technology labs will blend with heritage features like original brick and stone. The original opera hall will be restored to its former glory and equipped for modern performances and live events. 

“There is a wonderful synergy with combining these two projects” says Brant Mayor David Bailey. “A main library with a performance space like this will be a huge asset for all County residents, and will kick start the rejuvenation of Paris’ upper town.” 

Work on the project will begin this fall with the search for an architectural design firm. Construction is anticipated to start in 2022 and be completed by 2024. 

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Why we need a new library in Paris

• population growth
• expansion of services
• provision of specialized services
• increased parking
• increased accessibility
• increased space for programming, in-library study, and technology services

Reports & studies

• Main Site Sub-Committee Report to the Library Board (October 2018)
• Why Do We Need a New Main Branch? Quick Fact Sheet (May 2018)
• Library Site Selection Study Draft Report: Paris Branch (2017)
• Paris Branch Library Facility Planning Study (2016)
• Recording of Marilyn Sewell, Paris Facility Chair, during public focus groups on a new main branch (2018)

Questions?