Waverley Library’s renovation is fully funded with a $1 million federal grant. Construction begins this winter; the branch stays open until November 22
Construction begins this winter, with a larger children’s library, Indigenous Knowledge Centre and restored accessible entrance planned
THUNDER BAY — October 9, 2026 — Waverley Library’s renovation is moving ahead this winter, with Thunder Bay Public Library confirming that building work is fully funded following a $1 million federal investment.
The 75-year-old branch will remain open until Sunday, November 22, before closing for construction.
Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families, Minister responsible for FedNor and MP for Thunder Bay–Superior North, announced the funding on October 8 through the Local Impact stream of the Build Communities Strong Fund.
That evening, library officials unveiled the renovation plans to a full room at Waverley.
Building repairs estimated at $6 million to $8 million
Structural repairs and improvements are estimated to cost between $6 million and $8 million. According to Thunder Bay Public Library, government support, including contributions from Ottawa and the City of Thunder Bay, has secured funding for that work.
“Libraries are important community hubs that bring people together, providing access to culture, technology, and information,” Hajdu said. “The Waverley library has served Thunder Bay for 75 years, and today’s announcement is a big step toward another 75 years of success.”
Expanded children’s space and Indigenous Knowledge Centre
Library CEO Richard Togman and Library Board Chair Charmaine McCraw presented the plans, developed by FormStudio Architects.
The design includes four major features:
- A larger Children’s Library: More than twice the current size. The library describes it as the largest dedicated children’s space in its history and among the top five in Canada.
- New programming space: Areas for workshops, clubs and community activities throughout the year.
- An Indigenous Knowledge Centre: A new space positioned at the heart of the branch.
- A restored original entrance: The 1951 entrance will reopen, rebuilt to meet and exceed current accessibility standards.
“Thunder Bay Public Library is proud to provide our community with inspiring and vibrant gathering spaces, and we thank FedNor for their partnership in supporting the Waverley Library renovation,” Togman said.
“The spaces in these plans will bring Thunder Bay together today, tomorrow, and beyond.”
Community campaign focuses on furnishings and finishes
With building work funded, the library’s This is your place campaign is raising money to furnish and finish the renovated spaces.
The campaign has secured $800,000 toward its $2 million goal, leaving $1.2 million to raise.
Donations will support furniture, flooring, shelving, children’s toys and play equipment, along with other interior finishes.
“The building is happening, and every space in the plan will be built,” said Meagan Ross, Associate Director of Fundraising. “What the community gives decides how good those spaces are on the day the doors reopen.”
Library services during construction
County Park Library will expand its hours during Waverley’s closure. Brodie Library and Mary JL Black Library will continue operating as usual.
The announcement did not provide a reopening date or the expanded County Park schedule.
Residents can view the renovation plans inside Waverley Library until November 22 or online at thisisyourplace.ca, where campaign and donation information is also available. The library notes that renderings are conceptual and subject to change.
