Libraries

April 7, 2025

The Township of Russell is proud to announce a significant step forward in the relocation of the Embrun Branch of the Township of Russell Public Library. A 15-year lease agreement—with four additional 5-year renewal options—has officially been signed with Embrun Co-op, securing the future home of the library in a new, modern facility set to be built by September 2026.

This milestone follows the Township Council’s direction from its August 26, 2024, meeting, where it approved the pursuit of a partnership with Embrun Co-op. Since then, both parties have worked diligently, navigating legal considerations to finalize an agreement that reflects the shared vision of enhancing library services for the growing community.

The new library will offer a contemporary, accessible space designed to meet the evolving needs of residents. More than just a collection of books, this facility will serve as a vibrant hub for learning, culture, and community engagement, fostering connections among residents of all ages.

The Township of Russell remains committed to innovative partnerships that enhance local services and enrich the lives of residents. The collaboration with Embrun Co-op is a prime example of how community-driven initiatives can create lasting benefits for everyone.

Stay tuned for updates as this project progresses!

Shown in photo:

Back: France Séguin-Couture (CEO, Township of Russell Public Library), Joanne Camiré Laflamme (Clerk, Township of Russell) and Étienne Séguin (Vice-President of the Board of Directors, Embrun Co-op).
Front: Mike Tarnowski (Mayor, Township of Russell), Michael Bols (President of the Board of Directors, Embrun Co-op).

December 5, 2024

Embrun Co-op is pleased to reveal the exterior design for the future Embrun Branch of the Township of Russell Public Library. Developed in collaboration with the Township of Russell and the Township of Russell Public Library, this project will provide the community with a vibrant and accessible space dedicated to learning, connection, and local services.

Key Features of the New Building

Designed by the local firm Absolute Drafting + Design Inc., the building blends traditional, contemporary, and natural materials to create a modern, inviting aesthetic that honors Embrun’s rich heritage and looks to its future. The library will occupy 5,000 square feet on the main floor, complemented by a reading garden at the rear for patrons to enjoy a peaceful outdoor area. Large, prominent windows throughout allow natural light to flood the interior, fostering a warm, welcoming atmosphere. A spacious vestibule at the main entrance provides easy access for book drop-offs and other essential library services.

“The board of directors of the Township of Russell Public Library is very proud of the work that has been done in collaboration with the municipality and Embrun Co-op to create what will be a beautiful, centrally located library and community resource. We look forward to building this tailored facility together to meet the growing needs in our communities.” — Laurie Clement, Chair of the Board for the Township of Russell Public Library.

In addition to the library space, the building’s main floor will feature a 3,000-square-foot retail unit with a dedicated entrance, creating an exciting opportunity for a local business to establish itself in the heart of Embrun. The second floor, accessible by an open stairway and elevator within a striking floor-to-ceiling atrium, will offer 8,000 square feet of customizable office space to meet the needs of future tenants. Separate entrances for the library, retail, and office spaces make the building highly functional for a variety of users, underscoring its role as a central community hub.

“I am thrilled to see the remarkable designs unveiled by the Embrun Co-op for the new Embrun library branch. Purposefully designed as a modern library from the ground up, this project represents a true community milestone. The library will be a vibrant hub for learning, gathering, and connection, thoughtfully crafted to meet the current and future needs of our growing community. This collaboration between the Embrun Co-op, the Library Board, and the Township exemplifies what we can achieve when we work together. My heartfelt thanks to all involved for their vision and dedication to enriching our community and enhancing Embrun’s main street.” — Mike Tarnowski, Mayor of Russell Township.

A Community-Centered Design

“This project reflects Embrun Co-op’s dedication to building a connected, thriving community and supporting sustainable economic development. The new Embrun Branch, together with additional retail and professional spaces, will breathe new energy into Embrun’s main street. We’re proud to work alongside the Township and the Township of Russell Public Library to bring this vision to life for the community we’re committed to.” — Michael Bols, President of the Embrun Co-op Board of Directors.

The building’s location offers easy access to schools, neighborhoods, and the recreational trail across the street, encouraging residents to arrive on foot, by bike, or by public transport. A generous parking area at the rear of the building provides additional convenience for all visitors.

Supporting Local Development

Embrun Co-op invites local businesses and professionals interested in the available retail or office spaces to reach out for more information. The building’s central location and adaptable layouts make it a unique opportunity for those seeking a presence in Embrun’s vibrant community. This collaboration demonstrates Embrun Co-op’s commitment to supporting local growth and strengthening the community.

Next Steps

Embrun Co-op, in partnership with the Township of Russell, will now move forward with the site plan approval and building permit processes, bringing the project closer to reality. The new Embrun Branch of the Township of Russell Public Library is anticipated to open its doors to the public in September 2026. For inquiries about retail or office space opportunities, please contact Embrun Co-op at admin@coopembrun.com.

August 27, 2024

The Township of Russell is pleased to announce that the Embrun Branch of the Public Library will be relocating. At the Council meeting on August 26, 2024, a decision was made to enter into an agreement with Embrun Co-op. The new library will occupy 5,000 square feet of the first floor of a new two-story building. The move is scheduled for Fall 2026.

The new central location in the heart of the village offers convenient access for residents, situated near both residential neighbourhoods and commercial establishments. Its proximity to the recreational trail will facilitate environmentally friendly access for youth, students, and other community members. As it is located on the main street, the library will enjoy increased visibility, naturally drawing the attention of passersby.

This prime location has the potential to attract more users and renew interest in visiting the library. Nearby parking will accommodate those who prefer to travel by car, enhancing accessibility. Additionally, the location’s proximity to village schools will make it easier for students to visit the library during school hours.

“On behalf of the Township of Russell Public Library Board, we are pleased to support this future partnership where the Embrun Library can be a central gathering place that fosters learning experiences, social connections and a love of reading and writing,” shared Laurie Clement, Chair of the Township of Russell Public Library Board.

Why Relocate?

For over a decade, the Embrun Branch has been located at Pavillon La Croisée, within École élémentaire catholique d’Embrun. This location was initially intended as a temporary solution. Ongoing discussions with all stakeholders have highlighted several challenges at the current location, including liability concerns due to uncontrolled public access through a school.

A Brief History of the Project

A joint subcommittee was established in 2017 to explore relocation options for the Embrun Branch. The committee conducted a public consultation and evaluated various alternatives. However, the project stalled due to the 2018 election and the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to the branch’s temporary closure while schools remained closed. Other options, such as relocating to the new recreation complex or the Camille Piché Community Centre, were all considered but were not financially viable.

Mayor Mike Tarnowski shared, “As Mayor of our Township, I am proud to see this long-awaited project come to life. A new, centrally located, stand-alone Embrun Library Branch has been a priority for our community for many years, and we are thrilled to collaborate on this project with Embrun Co-op, which shares our commitment to the well-being of our community. The timing of this project is ideal, coinciding with the upcoming infrastructure improvements on Notre Dame Street (2025-26). These upgrades will ensure easy access to the site for pedestrians and cyclists, making this new cultural hub accessible to all. Congratulations to all involved; this project represents a significant step forward in enhancing the quality of life in our Township.”

Embrun Co-op Partnership

At the beginning of 2024, Embrun Co-op approached the Township with a proposal to construct a two-story building, offering space on the first floor that could be ideal for the library’s relocation. Over the past six months, the Township has held several meetings to negotiate a mutually beneficial agreement. Reports were presented in closed sessions to the Council, providing a high-level financial analysis of the project. The Library Board reviewed and approved Embrun Co-op’s concept, and the Council recommended drafting a Letter of Intent to formalize the agreement.

“We’re thrilled to partner with the Township on this important project that will benefit the entire community. The new library location represents a shared vision for enhancing community access and connection, and we’re proud to support such a vital resource in Embrun,” said Mike Bols, President of the Board of Directors of Embrun Co-op.

Future of the Camille Piché Community Centre

The administration is still exploring potential options for the Camille Piché Community Centre, along with the future of the two arenas and the Russell Centennial Pool. These will soon become priorities. The Township proposes organizing a strategic discussion on this topic at an upcoming Council meeting. To ensure a thorough and inclusive discussion, residents will be given ample time to share their opinions before any decisions are made.

Next Steps

The Township and Embrun Co-op will continue negotiations to finalize the lease agreement. A proposal for the layout work will be obtained, while Embrun Co-op proceeds with the site plan and building permit process.

For further information, please contact the communications department.

Photo 1 from left to right: In front of the future site of the Embrun Library, Patrick Therrien, CEO Embrun Co-op, Mike Bols, President of the board of Directors of Embrun Co-op, Mayor Mike Tarnowski, Laurie Clement, Chair of the Township of Russell Public Library Board, France Séguin-Couture, CEO of the Township of Russell Public Library and Richard Godin, CAO of Russell Township.

Photo 2: The members of Council, administration staff, Embrun Co-op and Township of Russell Public Library Board representatives at the August 26, 2024, Council meeting.