The Town of Bracebridge has allocated more than $2.6 million dollars for the rehabilitation and repurposing of the historic Carnegie Library.
Council approved the funding during a September 3 planning and development meeting.
According to officials, the plan is to convert the old Carnegie Library into a Bracebridge Business Development Centre and a hub for the Town’s Planning and Development Department, while maintaining the building’s historic features.
The Town has set aside $1.845 million in 2026, and $762,000 in 2027 for the construction project. An additional $100,000 will be spent in 2027 to create more parking spaces on the Town-owned vacant lot at 89 Kimberley Avenue.
The Carnegie Library was built in 1906 and is a historic landmark in Bracebridge. After the Bracebridge Library relocated to the new Coulson Family Bracebridge Library last year, the previous building has been vacant and awaiting an opportunity for the community’s use while maintaining its historic value.
According to town officials, they underwent long reviews and consultations but ultimately the council endorsed the plan to transform the building into a Bracebridge Business Development Centre.
The organizations they plan to host in the building are:
- The Muskoka Small Business Centre
- The Bracebridge Business Improvement Area (BIA)
- The Bracebridge Chamber of Commerce
- The Bracebridge Visitor Information Centre
Officials say along with the new office and service spaces it will also include storage and display space for a part of the Woodchester Collection to preserve a part of the town’s heritage.
Officials expect the renovated facility to open to the public in 2027.
