Link to:
Photos & Coordinates | Sources
Commissioned in commemoration of the 1967 Canadian centenary, this public library (also initially a cultural centre) was based on designs of architect George Andrew Stewart and was built by the local firm of John Miller and Sons Limited for $187,466. The facility opened on 1 April 1967 and an opening ceremony was held on 24 June 1967. A commemorative plaque on the exterior of the building marked the event.
In May 2022, the Winnipeg city council announced plans to close the library and move its collections to a shopping centre. Public opposition led the city council to back down on the plan. It became a municipally-designated heritage building in January 2023.
Period
Board Chair
1961-1969
John Roman Solomon (1910-1985)
1969-1970
Nathan “Nate” Nurgitz (1934-2019)
West Kildonan Library (October 2015)
Source: Nathan Kramer
West Kildonan Library (August 2023)
Source: George PennerSite Coordinates (lat/long): N49.93660, W97.12797
denoted by symbol on the map above
See also:
Memorable Manitobans: George Andrew Stewart (1922-1994)
Manitoba Business: John Miller and Sons Limited
“W. K. Library meet,” Winnipeg Free Press, 29 April 1960, page 13.
“W. Kildonan Library?” Winnipeg Free Press, 14 October 1960, page 52.
“Suburbs ask voters to spend $2 million,” Winnipeg Free Press, 15 October 1960, page 3.
“Head Librarian,” Winnipeg Free Press, 17 March 1961, page 29.
“Steinkopf to open League Tea Sunday,” Winnipeg Free Press, 13 July 1963, page 28.
“West Kildonan Library opening,” Winnipeg Free Press, 10 June 1967, page 52.
Municipality of West Kildonan Council History 1960-1971, by Jim Smith.
“Winnipeg plans to close the book on 55-year-old West Kildonan Library,” CBC News, 3 May 2022.
We thank George Penner for providing additional information used here.
This page was prepared by Nathan Kramer.
Page revised: 6 July 2024
Historic Sites of Manitoba
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