MacDonald Island Public Library
Fort McMurray, Alberta

Barr Ryder Architects has worked with the Fort McMurray Public Library for the past four years on a new 50,000 ft2 new facility to replace an existing 18,000 ft2 facility that was inadequate to meet the needs of a rapidly growing population. The initial concept was to add onto an existing community complex located on MacDonald Island, a popular community recreation area.

The community recently decided to develop a major multipurpose facility to incorporate the community’s social and recreation needs. This 370,000 ft2 complex includes arena, fieldhouses, curling rinks, competitive and leisure aquatics and fitness areas. It was decided that the new library would be incorporated into this complex as the prime front door location.

The two storey library is both the main visual element as the public approaches and allows direct access from the main entry.

The main level is devoted to circulation, computer stations and a large and active children’s collection, reading and program area.

The second floor houses the Adult and Young Adult Collections and reading areas.

The project is valued at $17.0 million of the total budget of $140.0 million.