Winnipeggers take novel approach to moving books to new Charleswood Library

Winnipeg's Charleswood neighbourhood has a brand-new library that officially opened Monday, replacing the area's existing facility down the street.

Mayor Brian Bowman and Charleswood-Tuxedo Coun. Marty Morantz were on hand for the grand opening of the new library, which is located inside the Charleswood Square Mall at 4910 Roblin Blvd.

It's double the physical size of the neighbourhood's original library at 5014 Roblin Blvd.

The old library was built in 1966 and eventually became too small for its growing collection, according to the city.

"It was one of the smallest branches in Winnipeg, but it is also one of the busiest community-sized libraries in the City," Bowman said in a news release.

The new Charleswood Library is fully accessible and energy efficient and has state-of-the-art library check-out equipment, automated book return, public computers and free Wi-Fi, a fireplace lounge, a family literacy playground and study and meeting spaces.

Dozens of community members of all ages helped with the grand opening by forming a "book chain" to move the last books from the old library down the street to the new facility.

The city says it spent about $960,000 for building renovations and $200,000 for furniture and shelving.