An inspired space for an inspiring place

It’s not often that an old building gets a new lease on life. And when it’s becoming a community’s gateway to intellectual, social and cultural development and a catalyst for economic growth in the region—that’s something to celebrate. 

The new Inspire Learning Centre in Summerside, P.E.I. is going to be a new kind of library. One that focuses on community, connections and opportunities. And the vision for this new space is well on its way to becoming a reality thanks to the hard work and dedication of hundreds of people.

“All the moving parts just came together,” says Sarah Millar, who works closely with the Rotary Club in Summerside and has helped to manage the influx of fundraising dollars, a natural role for her as the general manager of Consolidated Credit Union. “Everyone was in favour of the project, right from the get-go.”

The idea for the new space came from the steering committee of the local Rotary Club, including Stephen Cudmore, chair of the fundraising committee. Cudmore has been a part of the development of the project from its beginning and is thrilled to see how the Rotary Club and Summerside residents have embraced and supported the idea. 

The community’s deep passion for reading, learning and sharing meant the Summerside Rotary Library was quickly outgrowing its space. “In 2015 alone, the existing library had over 72,000 library visits, 400,000 items borrowed and 229 free programs run out of the 3500 ft.² facility,” says Cudmore. Simply, it was time for something bigger, brighter and more advanced. Even better, a potential location—an old government building that once housed a post office—became available for purchase. That’s when the Rotary Club stepped in and kicked off the fundraising in earnest.

Today, the efforts of the community, local businesses and individuals have raised over $2 million for the project, well on their way to the goal of $2.5 million. Now the design is in place and the revitalization of the building has already begun.

“A library is something that unites people,” says Cudmore. “This new centre will provide information, communication and technology that will open new worlds of opportunity to every child, student, parent, job seeker, community group, business leader and retiree who walks through its doors.”

Cudmore believes the support for the library is a testament to the spirit of Summerside residents. “This is a very dynamic, entrepreneurial and supportive place. People understand this library is another pillar for our community that will help Summerside attract and retain families, people, professionals and new business.”

“This project is something special,” Millar confirms. “And it aligns so wonderfully with what we care about as a credit union. It’s a perfect demonstration of a community committed to making our home a better place. We’re taking something old, something rundown, and turning it into something amazing.”