Thunder Bay Waverley Library - (File photo)

Thunder Bay Public Library is planning a transformation of the Waverly Resource Library branch.

According to the organization, they saw a significant increase in program attendance in 2024.

They have also received more than a decade’s worth of public feedback requesting more community space.

On Monday, plans focused on the transformation of the lower level of the branch to create an expanded Children’s Library were announced.

“About 10,000 more kids attended Library programs in 2024 than in 2023,” said CEO, Richard Togman. “We have waitlists for most of the programs and we’re straining to meet public demand. We’ve hit all-time highs, including pre-pandemic numbers, for our programming across the system. We’ve also had to turn away community groups looking for spaces to host their gatherings, especially children’s groups. Growing to utilize all of Waverley Library will help us meet community demand.”

The board and executive team hopes to get an active play area for kids established as well as space for parents and caregivers to socialize.

The goal is to also get more space for children’s books and educational material, as well as programming rooms.

The transformation has been made possible as the current basement renter, Anishinabek Employment and Training Services’ lease is coming to an end and the organization plans on moving out by the end of May.

“The end of this lease means a huge opportunity to realize the community’s vision for a Children’s Library,” added Togman. “And it will mean more than doubling the space available on Waverley’s lower level for the children of Thunder Bay.”

No information was released on funding requirements or project timelines.