John Abbott College held its official ribbon-cutting ceremony on May 12th to inaugurate the newly renovated library. Crafted by prize-winning ÉKM architects, the space has retained its historical charm while combining modern elements throughout.
Photo (left to right) Front: Francis Scarpaleggia, Member of Parliament for Lac-Saint-Louis, Ivana Riveros Arteaga (SUJAC) Student Union of John Abbott College President, Christopher Skeete, MNA for Sainte-Rose, Parliamentary Assistant to the Premier for Relations with English-Speaking Quebecers and Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister responsible for the Fight Against Racism Back: Guy Lallemand, Chair of the John Abbott College Foundation Board of Directors, John Halpin, Director General of John Abbott College, and Gwyneth Edwards, Chair of the Board of Governors.
The initiative was made possible thanks to the Canada-Quebec Contribution Agreement for Post-Secondary Institutions Strategic Investment Fund.
Following the 15-million-dollar renovation, the Library has moved its collection of 66,000 print volumes and other resources into a space of 3700 square meters situated at the heart of the campus.
Students, staff, and Members of Parliament were all in attendance for the occasion.
“I just love the Library,” said Mr. Halpin the CEGEP's Director-General. “As soon as you enter, you can immediately feel the grandeur, see the light-flooded rooms and the numerous study areas occupied by students. The renovated space is truly conducive to learning and collaboration.”
“We are living a very important part of John Abbott College’s history today” added Gwyneth Edwards, Chair of the Board of Governors. “This century-old now renovated Library has seen generations of students and is ready to welcome many more curious minds.”
For his part, Guy Lallemand, Chair of the John Abbott College Foundation Board of Directors said, “I am pleased with the work of the Foundation’s Board and their effort in leading a successful fundraising campaign to support the Library renovations and window restoration project.
