Millennium Library community resource space gains momentum

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This article was published 25/01/2021 (1386 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

A space to connect vulnerable Winnipeggers with resources will be created at Millennium Library, while past airport-like security measures appear set to stay out of the building.

The city is now seeking a contractor to create a long-promised “community connections space” at the downtown library, which it first announced plans for in January 2020.

Last year, the city earmarked up to $236,000 to build such a space in the library’s lobby, where at-risk clients will be able to access mental health, addictions and shelter supports, during a two-year pilot project.

The location would replace the former Human Bean Coffee & Tea shop, and provide a meeting room and access to community crisis workers, as well as some beverages and snacks.

The City of Winnipeg will accept bids for the work until Feb. 16. It hopes to have it completed by Aug. 31.

A city spokeswoman said the community area will help prevent the need to resume airport-like security measures that sparked protests at the library before all actions were suspended during the pandemic.

“There are no plans to reinstate the metal detectors and bag check system. The community connections project is a key step towards developing a more inclusive, community-based approach to keeping Millennium Library safe and welcoming for everyone,” Joelle Schmidt wrote in an emailed statement.

Coun. Sherri Rollins, chairwoman of city council’s protection and community services committee, said COVID-19 restrictions shut down many indoor public places where vulnerable Winnipeggers could previously escape the elements, which “amplified” such needs.

“In council’s work to support vulnerable people who are homeless with mental health or addictions issues, (there is a) continued need to access the Millennium Library and this community space for social inclusion,” said Rollins (Fort Rouge-East Fort Garry).

The city says two community crisis workers, who are already based in the library, will work with “partner agencies” to provide services in the new space.

Rollins said free access to computers and internet could also help low-income Winnipeggers connect with friends and family, once libraries fully reopen.

joyanne.pursaga@freepress.mb.ca

Twitter: @joyanne_pursaga