Construction crews are starting to frame the new Masset library branch and Xaad Kil language lab at the north end of Main Street.
The 3,800-square foot building is expected to be substantially done by February. If all goes according to plan, the new library and language lab will have a soft opening in the spring, and an official opening next fall.
Ben Hyman, executive director of the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL), gave an update on the build at a Village of Masset council meeting last month. Hyman was in town to meet with the several contractors and community partners involved in the $4.2-million project.
“Thank you for your patience — thank you to the community for your patience,” Hyman said.
“I know, depending on how you count this, it’s been too many years. So I really appreciate the support.”
The building foundation is already done, and VIRL recently closed two construction contracts worth about $750,000. They include framing, siding, mechanical, and electrical work as well as installing trusses and a metal roof. On the outside, the new Masset library will have rough cedar siding in a board-and-batten style.
Hyman said most of the construction contracts went to local contractors from Masset and Daajing Giids as well as North Coast companies from Prince Rupert and Telkwa.
Councillor Terry Carty welcomed the update, saying the construction timeline is faster than expected.
“I think we’re all really pleased that it’s coming to fruition,” Carty said, and people are excited.
“To see it move quickly now is really encouraging.”