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The Niagara-on-the-Lake Public Library has seen a steady increase of visitors since renovations.
In 2017, the library underwent remodeling to better meet the needs of NOTL residents.
According to the library in a presentation during the Jan. 14 council meeting, Ontario public libraries counted 12 million visits more than the NHL, NBA, and NFL combined across North America.
With almost 300,000 visits in person and online, the NOTL library has increased usage since the renovation.
They added a maker-space, The Makery, equipped with a range of DIY machines, including a 3D printer, a carving machine and an embroidery machine.
Cathy Simpson, chief librarian and CEO of the NOTL Public Library, said the renovations have been well-received and usage has increased since completion.
“We’ve had a very positive response. We’ve seen use go up in terms of physical visits to the building as well as materials that are circulating. We’re using the space better. We didn’t increase the size, we’re just using it smarter. We have multi-spaces which people are really appreciating.”
Simpson said they’ve included a quiet study room, which was in high demand. She also said the new layout and shelving have had positive feedback.
“It’s a very different style shelving. People really love it now, we’ve got the wide aisles, there’s no dead ends or tight corners. They appreciate the improved accessibility.”
BY THE NUMBERS:
Items borrowed and used in-house: 82,699
Visits (in-person and online): 299,099
New users: 674
Cardholders: 4,145
Children in 201 programs: 1,617
Adults in 124 programs: 934