Subscribe
Back to Search
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 at comms@russell.ca.
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.