News Release

CAMPBELLTON (CNB) – The Campbellton Centennial Library officially opened its doors in its new and improved facility today.

"Today is a celebration of the determination and hard work by the community," said Economic Development Minister Paul Robichaud."Libraries support economic and social development and promote self-reliance by providing opportunities for New Brunswickers to enhance their knowledge and their creative capabilities."

"Public libraries exist because of a partnership between the provincial government and municipalities," said Post Secondary Education, Training and Labour Minister Martine Coulombe. "We are proud to have the City of Campbellton as our partner in this important community  infrastructure."

The new 1,506 sq. metre (16,212 sq. feet) library on Aberdeen Street replaces the former 44-year-old, 743 sq. metre (8,000 sq. feet) facility. The new library has an open ceiling concept and includes offices, a boardroom, lunchroom, multi-purpose room, children's activity room, activity rooms, and a space for the Campbellton Sports Hall of Fame.

“The City of Campbellton is very pleased with this new facility that is double the size of the previous one," said Campbellton Mayor Bruce MacIntosh. "In 2009-10 the library offered 516 programs including seniors computer courses, school presentations, and in-house programming. A total of 6,605 participants took part in these activities. This new facility will enhance the capacity to meet an even greater demand."

The provincial government invested $1 million in leasehold improvements and equipment while the city contributed $600,000.

The New Brunswick public library system provides access to a provincial collection of more than 1.8 million items, as well as to programs and services ranging from story hour to public lectures to services such as reference, inter-library loans and public access workstations.