Rideau-Vanier Candidate makes case for Central Library

Visionary thinking could uplift not only the Byward Market but all of Ward 12. I love libraries, including our 60’s- style current Central library at Laurier & Metcalfe. A library at the heart of the Market in sites that are only car parks and with underground parking could truly transform local perception of why we go to the market. This type of infrastructure would brand the market as a local as well as a tourist destination. Further, libraries world wide are of course visited by tourists so this idea doesn’t negate but only uplifts the current profile. Currently Bayview is under consideration for the location of the ‘Central’ library which may be handy for Hintonburg but what about those in Centretown, Lowertown, the Glebe etc who chose to live downtown so they can walk and bike to use service rather than drive. Ward 12 and the market needs an advocate that stands up for preserving not only the physical heritage but also the historical importance of the Byward market as a core part of our city and not simply a tourist destination. A candidate who proposes workable positive and truly transformative ideas is one definitely worth very serious consideration.