Kitchener’s Zero Carbon Library
With its community in mind, Kitchener Public Library (KPL) announced plans to expand its services with a new branch location in 2023.
The Southwest Library is a landmark destination for Kitchener’s growing community. Located at 100 Rosenberg Way, the library offers surrounding residents a vibrant, sustainable gathering space to explore, learn and connect with community members.
The 14,000 sq. ft. space combines traditional library services with emerging trends in the sector. Designed for collaboration, the single-level space includes a multipurpose room, a commercial style teaching kitchen, a creation centre, and an audiovisual area for recordings, music production, editing, podcasts and more. There is also a gaming area, large sunroom, children’s area, teen area, group study rooms and a quiet, reflection room. Other unique amenities include Chromebook and roller skates which are available to borrow for free.
KPL consulted with the Six Nations of the Grand River and the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation during the development of its new branch, as well as solicited input from more than 7,000 community members. The final building design blends must-have library features such as natural light and spaces for art, music and performances with Indigenous artwork, gathering and ceremony spaces, and a Four Directions learning gardens.
Quick Facts
Kitchener’s Southwest Library is one of the first libraries in Canada to achieve a Zero Carbon Building designation.
The library combines traditional services with emerging trends including a recording studio and commercial style teaching kitchen.
The 14,000 sq. ft. facility incorporates bioswales and a rain garden, which help manage stormwater and support Kitchener’s climate action plan.
An inclusive and sustainable future
KPL engaged our project management team to support the delivery of the Southwest Library just as construction was ramping up in September 2023.
As project managers, we collaborated with the existing project team to help mitigate risks, oversee tasks and report on the progress of the project as it achieved key milestones. The construction phase, however, unveiled some complications – particularly surrounding city water retention targets. The City of Kitchener has specific stormwater management objectives in support of infrastructure sustainability and its overall climate action plan. Working with the project team, we incorporated bioswales and a rain garden into the design to help retain stormwater and manage runoff.
The Southwest Library officially opened its doors to the public on March 13, 2025, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing transformation of Kitchener’s community infrastructure. Final landscaping will be completed later this spring, bringing KPL’s full vision to life.
We are proud to support the delivery of this inclusive, forward-thinking and climate-resilient project. The library is sure to act as a community hub, connecting generations with its commitment to culture, creativity and accessibility for years to come.
