Community wants West Kildonan Library designated as historical building

After winning a nearly decade-long battle that stopped the West Kildonan Library from relocating, community members are once again fighting for their library.

This time a coalition is hoping to see the West Kildonan Library designated as a historical building.

The “Friends of West Kildonan Library” are one step closer to achieving that goal after the Lord Selkirk—West Kildonan Community Committee unanimously voted to recommend the library be added to the city’s list of historical buildings.

The recommendation now needs to be reviewed by the city’s Planning, Property & Development department on July 4. If a vote is successful, it will be put forward to the department’s director for review.

“This branch is a premier example of modernist architecture in our city,” said Daniel Guenther, the coalition’s co-chair, in a statement.

“We trust that when this recommendation is reviewed by PP&D in July, they will follow this Committee’s lead to make historical designation a reality and ensure this valuable piece of architecture is preserved and entrusted for future generations.”

Fellow coalition co-chair Evan Krosney says the committee’s vote follows in the footsteps of other Winnipeg libraries built in the same era

“Much like the St. Vital Library, which the City designated a historical building in 2014, recognizing the West Kildonan Library with this honour is a no-brainer,” said Krosney. “It has been widely recognized as one of the most ambitious and unique projects of renowned architect George A. Stewart, designed as a 1967 Canadian Centennial project and treasured by our northwest communities for over 50 years.

“Making sure this building’s historic merit is officially noted by the City is critical.”