The L.E.A.F. Initiative is a Commonwell program to support capacity, resiliency and growth in the communities we call home.

Espanola Public Library Learning Hub

245 Avery Drive EspanolaP5E 1S4

Target Completion Date: December 19, 2025

What is this project about?

This project is all about supporting the library’s transformation into a community hub! Espanola Public Library will create a vibrant, inclusive, and welcoming environment that enriches and engages our community through our physical spaces, collections, and services.

Our community members have told us they want: more spaces for children and caregivers to play and connect; opportunities to borrow technology and resources from the library; and study spaces with amenities such as outlets for laptops and charging stations for devices.

Based on this feedback, the library will: purchase flexible furniture that allows children, youth, and other community members to use the space in ways that meet their needs; create a technology collection with tablets for in-house use and circulation; develop a collection of resources for circulation, including STEM learning kits and literacy and numeracy kits; and convert underused space into a study room for individual study and collaborative work.

Creating more flexible spaces in the library will allow us to serve more community members and deliver more programming, as the space and furnishings will be adaptable. Access to technology and learning kits will support early learning, literacy, and numeracy by increasing the availability of resources for community members. Additionally, providing increased access to technology will help address the digital divide and create opportunities for the library to offer more technology programs. Finally, converting underused space will create one of the only free, publicly accessible spaces in the community for study and meetings.

Why is this project important to the community?

The library is one of the few public spaces available to community members. We are an essential resource, providing access to public space, learning resources, and technology. We offer a place for community members to foster connections with others. Enhancing the physical space and library services will have a significant impact on our community. As a smaller community in Northern Ontario, we understand some residents have limited access to resources, technology, and public spaces. This project will ensure that community members have free access to resources, services, and spaces that promote individual growth and provide opportunities for community connection.