Carved into the Tyndall stone above the arched entrance to Winnipeg's first public library are the words "Free to All," but for the past 11 years, it's been closed to everyone.

Now, as the former Carnegie Library on William Street turns 120, it's about to begin a new chapter.

"It absolutely does feel like a new beginning, and it's a testament to the building's resilience," said Cindy Tugwell, executive director of Heritage Winnipeg.

The 37,350-square-foot building at 380 William Ave. is set to undergo a $22.8-million renovation to make it a state-of-the-art archives facility, with a climate-controlled vault, to preserve and display Winnipeg's historical records.

Construction is slated to begin sometime this fall, with a reopening in 2027.

The arched entrance doors to the Carnegie Li

See Full Page