Minister Gary Goodyear and MP Joe Preston Celebrate Completed Glanworth Branch Library Revitalization

LONDON, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - June 23, 2014) - Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario)

Today, FedDev Ontario Minister of State Gary Goodyear, accompanied by local MP Joe Preston, celebrated the newly revitalized Glanworth Branch Library in London, Ontario, while touring the more than 90-year-old community landmark. The event marked the completed renovation and expansion of the library building to improve public service, create physical accessibility and conserve this heritage structure.

Through the Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund, the London Public Library received an investment of $98,025, toward total project costs of $210,000. The funding was used to improve and repair existing interior and exterior infrastructure; add water and septic services; construct an accessible entranceway; and build a new accessible restroom.

As the last remaining public building in the Glanworth community, the library is an important asset for residents as it supports literacy, learning, culture, leisure and recreation, and information services. It also functions as a gathering place for residents of this rural area, helping to build and maintain a vibrant, engaged community.

Built in 1923, the Glanworth Branch Library is one of 16 branches that constitute the London Public Library. The Glanworth community has enjoyed library service since 1912.

Since 2009, FedDev Ontario has acted as a co-investor and champion with southern Ontario communities, businesses and not-for-profit organizations to actively promote the region and build a strong foundation of long-term economic growth.

Quick Facts

• First announced in Economic Action Plan 2012, the Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund was a national short-term economic stimulus program that provided $150 million for the repair, rehabilitation and improvement of community infrastructure facilities across the country.
• In Ontario, 430 projects were approved under the Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund, including tourism facilities, community centres, libraries and recreational facilities.
• Since its creation, FedDev Ontario has invested more than $1.1 billion, resulting in partnerships with more than 5,300 organizations and more than $1.5 billion in additional leveraged investments from almost exclusively non-government sources to support businesses, organizations and communities in southern Ontario.

Quotes

"FedDev Ontario's investment in the Glanworth Branch Library has enhanced this unique landmark into an accessible learning hub for local community members. When we improve facilities, we are strengthening our communities and building a prosperous southern Ontario."

- Gary Goodyear, Minister of State for FedDev Ontario

"Thanks to federal funding, library users and staff, including those with accessibility needs, can enjoy an enhanced educational and recreational experience. Our Government is committed to helping our communities grow and making them better places to live, work and play."

- Joe Preston, MP for Elgin-Middlesex-London

Associated Links

Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund Program

London Public Library

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