About these FAQs
Beginning in Aug of 2022, JPL will undergo a significant renovation of our upper level Main Library. Here are some FAQs about the renovation and how it will affect JPL’s services. La version française est disponible ici.

FAQ

Q1:  Why are you renovating the library?
A:  To support our Digital Transformation Campaign, we are upgrading our Upper Level Reading Room to make it a more useful space for the 21st century. We will have new public computer stations installed and there will be easier access to USB and device-charging while customers browse and do research  in our space. Improvements in our Service Desk operations are going to be an important part of the work, with the aim of making our services more efficient and convenient. Additionally, we will upgrade the overall look and feel of the space, maximizing its abundant natural light and making it a more accessible and comfortable place for everyone.

Q2:  But why now after just coming out of the Covid disruptions?
A:  There is no ideal time to close a significant portion of a public library to its customers and we are fully aware of the inconvenience this might pose for some. We have been planning  a major renovation since well before the pandemic began, and our supporters have been patiently waiting for these infrastructure improvements. Our main goal is to make our space better, improve our already strong customer service and ensure that our space is suitable and tehnologically advanced for the next generation of library users.

Q3: When will the renovation begin and when will it end?
A: The renovation is scheduled to begin on Mon Aug 8 and renovations will continue throughout September. We will be working hard in order to reopen our doors again fully on Wed Oct 19. Of course, as with any renovation, delays are a possibility, but check out our website and social media channels for regular updates.

Q4: How will the renovation impact JPL’s customers?
A: We are aiming for as little impact on our services as possible during the renovation period. Throughout the renovation, our lower level will remain open along with the collections on that level and our Special Collections and Archives areas (by appointment). Our standard opening hours will be in effect throughout the renovation: M-Th 10am-5:30pm.

Q5:  How will I access the library during the renovation?
A: Since the upper level of the Main Library is closing, access to the Library will be via the Gelber Corridor (past the cafe on the left side of the lobby at 5151 ch. Cote-Sainte-Catherine). The lower level will be accessible only via the elevator inside and beyond the Children’s/YA Library (NBCL). Once the renovation has begun, there will be signage up that will direct visitors to the areas that are accessible for browsing and book borrowing.

Q6: Will I continue being able to borrow books?
A: Anything currently shelved on the lower level will remain available. As for the upper level, new fiction currently on order and which comes in during the renovation period will be available as will  the Jewish inspirational collection from orthodox presses. Some collections will be unavailable (audiobooks DVDs, some fiction, magazines and newspapers and most large print titles). Browsing on-site will be limited to our lower level.

Note: you can continue to borrow all titles available as part of our extensive ebooks and audiobooks digital collection by clicking here.

Our children’s collection will continue to circulate normally. As for Young Adult and New Adult titles  (usually shelved in the upper-level reading room), many popular titles will be housed in the Children’s space, along with new titles that arrive during the renovations. Browsing on-site will continue as normal in the children’s library.  However, please note that the noises of ongoing construction may sometimes be loud, distracting, and beyond our control.  

You can continue to place books on hold for adults, YA and children’s titles and if the book is available for circulation, you can pick it up per usual in the Service Desk areas which will be relocated temporarily to the Children’s Activity room.

Q7: Should I continue to return checked out books over the summer?
A: Yes, circulating titles should be returned as usual, but only during opening hours at the Service Desk in the Children’s/YA Library(NBCL) Activity Room and the lower level. The overnight drop-box will be unavailable throughout the renovation period. Our standard openinghours will be in effect throughout the renovation: M-Th 10am-5:30pm.

Q8: What should I do if my membership expires over the summer?
A: Customers with expiring memberships will be contacted with the chance to renew throughout the renovation period. You can also renew on our website and by calling 514-345-2627 ext. 3003.