By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

New public library opens in Nanaimo

May 23, 2017 | 2:01 PM

NANAIMO — A new library to serve central Nanaimo has opened its doors.

The Vancouver Island Regional Library’s (VIRL) relocated Wellington Branch opened at Country Club Centre on Tuesday, May 23.

Spokesman David Carson told NanaimoNewsNOW the purpose-built facility has many upgraded features.

“There’s a small study room that people can reserve, so students can take advantage of that,” Carson said. “Lower stacks (book shelving) for better sightlines and more open space, there’s lounges so people can sit around and read.”

The new library, the third VIRL location in Nanaimo, also includes new public computers.

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Carson said the budget for its newest Nanaimo-based branch is $680,000.

He noted a surge is expected in the more than 10,000 members the Wellington Branch of the VIRL currently has.

“New branches create excitement…Wellington has long been one of our most popular branches, we really look forward to seeing those numbers rise again.”

The new Country Club Centre library replaced an aging facility on nearby Barons Rd.

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