December 11, 2007

New Approach for Users
Markham Village Library Reopens December 15, 2007

Markham, ON ~ Markham Village Library reopens on December 15, 2007, following an expansion and renovation, with a user-friendly retail plan layout. The Markham Village branch is the first library in Canada to apply a new classification system to the adult non-fiction section, replacing the traditional Dewey Decimal cataloguing system. This new system makes materials easier to find when browsing.

Background:
Markham Council committed more than $10.8 million to build 12,500 sq. ft. of new construction and 25,860 sq. ft. of renovation in late 2005 to the existing Markham Village Library.

The branch has been designed to improve customer experience, with study rooms, a computer training facility, wireless services, a teen area, an enhanced children’s area and self service options. MPL’s Counting Opinions survey indicates that 75% of the Libraries’ customers use the library for leisure and self improvement. Recent research indicates that the majority of library customers come to browse rather than for research purposes or to find a specific title.

A focal point and gathering place for the growing and changing Markham Village community, along with new bright, inviting and comfortable space, the library will house Markham Public Libraries Administration staff.

-30-

Media Contact:

Markham Corporate Communications, Marjorie Rebane, 905-479-7754
Markham Public Libraries, Diane Macklin, 905-513-7977 ext. 3912