Breathing new life into two cherished downtown landmarks

Celebrating the renewal of the Central Library and Hamilton Farmers' Market

Following an extensive renovation process, the City of Hamilton and Hamilton Public Library are celebrating the revitalization of the Central Library and Farmers’ Market at a grand re-opening event on Friday, February 11th and Saturday, February 12th.

The celebration will feature musical entertainment, library tours, food tastings, cooking demonstrations, kids' activities and more! Both facilities will remain open to the public until 9:00 p.m. on Friday and celebrations will continue into Saturday. For a list of activities and other details, please visit www.hamilton.ca/foodforthought

The total cost to renovate the Central Library and Farmers’ Market was approximately $16 million. Demolition and construction began in May 2009 and was completed in December 2010. Among the features of the refreshed facilities are:

• Glass façade with programmable LED lights
• Almost 50 public access computers in the Library's Information Commons
• Convenient self-check terminals and automated return for materials
• Expanded Children’s Department with aquarium overlooking Market
• Green living wall
• Historic, 3000-pound, fully-restored Birks Clock in the Farmers' Market
• Nearly 70 vendors offering a variety of quality, affordable and locally grown as well as ethnically diverse products, plus fresh prepared food onsite
• New community kitchen for cooking demonstrations and events