Monique-Corriveau library - Quebec

"The Monique-Corriveau library is a place that remains engraved in my memory. Housed in the heart of a renovated former church, this library embodies the fusion of heritage preservation and cultural innovation. The transformation of this place into a space dedicated to knowledge is an initiative that I find inspiring, as it testifies to the desire to safeguard our history while making it accessible to all. During my visit, I was particularly struck by the modern aesthetic chosen for the church's renovation, which contrasts with its traditional architecture, creating a unique atmosphere where light abounds, lines are uncluttered and space is optimized to encourage the fluid circulation of visitors. However, the architects have made an effort to maintain a building shape that recalls its past as a church. Every nook and cranny seems to have been thought through, offering both open areas for conviviality and more intimate spaces for those seeking peace and quiet. The Monique-Corriveau library is spread over several levels, offering a diversity of atmospheres. Quiet rooms invite reflection and concentration, while larger spaces are conducive to exchanges and meetings. What's more, the availability of rooms that can be rented for events lends the facility a versatility appreciated by the community. A particularly noteworthy aspect of this library is its toy library. This initiative, aimed at young families, bears witness to the desire to include all generations in this place of knowledge. Offering children a space dedicated to playful learning, the Monique-Corriveau library is positioned as a true community hub. All in all, my visit to the Monique-Corriveau library left a deep impression on me. Beyond its functional aspect, it embodies a vision of preserving the past while looking to the future. By offering a modern, welcoming setting, it has established itself as an essential part of local cultural life, responding to the diverse and changing needs of its clientele." (Booklet Positive Lived Experiences of Quality in the Built Environment 2024, p.22).