The historic library in Wingham is a step closer to getting a badly needed new cedar roof, as well as better accessibility.
On Friday, July 16, the Township of North Huron hosted MPP Carol Mitchell for the announcement of a $50,000 grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation.
“Libraries play an important role in our rural communities, providing vital resources and services for Huron-Bruce families. I’m pleased to see lots of activity at your library,” Mitchell said, commenting on a little girl she’d seen leaving the library with arms piled high with books. She noted that people look to libraries for information and knowledge. The new roof will “help keep you high and dry – important with books and computers,” she said. And the improved accessibility will ensure everyone in the community can use such an important resource.
North Huron reeve Neil Vincent thanked the Trillium Foundation for helping renovate the heritage building, to keep it looking the way it was designed.
George Robertson, chair of the Huron County Library board, said, “Money spent on libraries is money well spent; children start using libraries before they start school.”
Pat Newson, North Huron’s recreation and facilities director, described the work that is being done, hopefully by Sept. 30.
The roof is in desperate need of replacing, she said. The present roof, made of a wood-like synthetic material, is crumbling and curling up. The cedar shingles will maintain the heritage features of the building and will be extremely durable.
The power door-openers will be an important step to ensure full accessibility. Said Newson, “The township looks at improving accessibility as a goal that the entire community should keep in mind during any renovation or building upgrade. It is especially challenging in older buildings. Installing automatic door openers at this site is a step toward this goal.