About the Unlock Potential Fundraising Campaign for the Ottawa Central Library

 Central libraries have transformed cities such as Helsinki, Doha, Austin, Calgary and Halifax.

Now Ottawa has the opportunity for its own transformational Central Library that will contribute to the cultural and economic success of the city.

With a central location on the historic LeBreton Flats, OPL’s new Central Library will be both a catalyst for development in this area, and a lively community hub that will provide access to:

• The latest creative technologies
• Spaces to work and study
• High-quality literacy programs
• Events with local and national artists
• Exceptional collections

By offering everyone – free of charge – the books, programs, spaces, and tools, and help they need to learn, find a job, connect with others, develop language skills, and stay informed, public libraries have a long history of supporting education, democracy, culture and are a highly valued public service.  

The new Ottawa Central Library, part of the Ādisōke Joint Facility with Library and Archives Canada, will capture the imagination of Ottawa residents and visitors from across Canada and beyond. It will offer an interactive experience that is both local and national through its striking design, sustainable architectural footprint, and special programs and services.

Throughout the planning and design of Ādisōke, we have been working with the Anishinābe Algonquin Host Nation, which gave us the name for the facility. We and our partners will continue to work collaboratively with the Anishinābe Algonquin Nation and other First Nations, Inuit, and Métis individuals and organizations from across the country in an active spirit of reconciliation.

We are raising funds to make the new Central Library come alive with exciting spaces, high-quality and inclusive programming, and new, high-tech tools and resources to enable creation and inspire learning at any age.