Summerside Inspire Learning Centre construction underway

Work is underway on Summerside's new Inspire Learning Centre, athreestoreybuilding that will replace the current libraryand double its footprint.

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Renovations are being done atthe former post office building in the city's downtown.

Stephen Cudmore, speaking for the Rotary Club ofSummerside,said the group is hoping to raise $2million to help make the projecthappen.

"It takes a library from a place you need to go to get something done, to a place you want to go because it's very fun and engaging with all the tools and technology to exist in today's future," said Cudmore.

"Yes, you'll still be able to borrow a book, but there will be banks of computers, there'll be meeting rooms, there'll be reading rooms, there'll be quiet rooms."

Renovations will include a new elevatorand upgrades to make it more energy efficient.

The facility will include a library, multi-purpose meeting rooms, work stations and community space for business and entrepreneurial development and lifelong learning.

Cudmore said the new learning centre shouldbe open by the fall.

Currently, the Summerside library has 400,000books, 72,000visitors a year and offers 200 programs to the public.