VIDEO: Hazel McCallion Library in Mississauga takes shape after year of renovations

Mississauga’s new central library is on schedule to reopen to the public in 2023.

Closed since March 2021 “to undergo a major renovation to meet the growing demands of its customers and changing business priorities,” the library promises to make a big splash once it reopens next year, City of Mississauga officials say.

Located in the heart of Mississauga’s downtown core, the facility will be known as the Hazel McCallion Central Library upon its reopening. McCallion, who turned 101 earlier this year, rose to national prominence during her run as Mississauga mayor from 1978 to 2014.

“The renovation will move the library forward as an important part of an urban community that inspires literacy, creativity and lifelong learning,” City officials say.

All five floors of public and staff space, including the Glass Pavilion, Breezeway and the Noel Ryan Auditorium, are under renovation.

Cost of the project is $42.8 million.

“At this time, all interior demolition has been completed, construction of the fourth-floor sky lounge has commenced and mechanical and electrical rough-ins are ongoing,” City officials said on their website.

The project marks the first large-scale renovation of the library since its opening in 1991.

Looking to mark roughly one year since the facility closed for major upgrades, Mississauga officials posted an update video to social media today (May 20).

“It’s been about a year since the Hazel McCallion Central Library closed for renovation. See how the library is taking shape with all these cool new features,” the City tweeted.

The central library, located at 301 Burnhamthorpe Rd. W., will grow by about 28,000 sq-ft. of public space as a result of the renovations.

“To go with that, there will be an additional 6,000 sq-ft. of space added on the fourth floor that will overlook Celebration Square that will be spectacular,” Mayor Bonnie Crombie said last year.

The plan also calls for some major upgrades to the 30-year-old building including updated heating, ventilation and air conditioning that will provide enhanced air flow and comfort.

Work continues on renovations to the library. (Photo: City of Mississauga)

As well, upgraded washrooms will feature contact-free fixtures.

Enhanced technology throughout the building will offer more self-serve options, along with greater access to digital collections and in-library services, officials say.

The facility will also become completely barrier-free to those with disabilities.

In the meantime, those who normally rely on the central branch can access a small collection and curbside pickup at the Living Arts Centre as well as at Mississauga Valley, Burnhamthorpe, Cooksville and Woodlands branches.

–with files from Steve Pecar