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National Library News |
by Marcia MacDonald,
Planning Officer,
Research and Information Services Branch
 The original auditorium at 395 Wellington Street. |
Thirty-two years after Lester B. Pearson opened the National Library/Public Archives building at 395 Wellington Street amid a joyful, centennial celebration on June 20, 1967, the excitement, pride of place and anticipation of new possibilities were renewed with the grand opening of the National Library’s newly renovated auditorium.
The National Library and the National Archives, together with Public Works and Government Services Canada, Temprano, Young and Ward Architects, and Lett/Smith Architects celebrated the reopening on September 10 with a short classical guitar recital and the screening of a film. The space is a first-rate facility, in which Canadians can take pride now and for years to come.
The new auditorium is a space which accommodates not only public programming and the needs of the tenants, but also serves as a facility for activities and events of other government departments. In addition, events that complement the mandate of the Library and are sponsored by non-government groups and organizations, including the diplomatic and arts communities are held in the auditorium.
 As the work progresses... |
The renovated auditorium is a vital component of the National Library’s public programming, providing the requisite ambiance, amenities and equipment for this important Canadian cultural institution to illuminate and enliven its collections through authors’ readings, lectures, video productions, film screenings, musical performances, and conferences.
The gala events of the first week of the newly reopened auditorium showcased the features of this technologically-sophisticated, acoustically-engineered and aesthetically-pleasing public place. Audiences savoured a fine jazz concert, a piano recital and a reading by a well-known Canadian author.
The renovation work transformed a tired, worn and one-dimensional space into a vibrant, comfortable, multi-purpose room. Architectural and technical upgrades enhance the auditorium’s acoustical qualities. The plaster ceiling was removed and replaced by an acoustically-transparent metal mesh ceiling designed to make full use of the volume of the room and to improve overall acoustical performance. Major modifications to the heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems have eliminated background noise in the room. The sound system was upgraded with new, more efficient, front-of-house speakers.
 ...Final results of renovated auditorium. |
Audiences will also appreciate the new aisle layout and staggered seating which vastly improves sight lines. The seats in the auditorium provide ample leg room. There are locations in the seating arrangement to accommodate wheelchairs and a number of seats have fold-away arm rests and end panels to facilitate seating for persons with disabilities. Numbered seats and aisle lighting in the end panels of the seats are welcome new features.
The new auditorium is now a fine venue for film and video screenings, especially those with sub-titles. The increased slope of the new floor greatly improves the sight line to the stage.
Maintaining and operating the auditorium is now easier and more efficient due to the installation of a new technical bridge within the ceiling in front of the stage to provide safe access to stage lights and other services. An independent heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system provides a better work environment in the translation, projection and control rooms.
Improvements were made to the space in the auditorium foyer which is often used for receptions and events. Within the foyer stage is an electric lift providing barrier-free access from the foyer to the main auditorium stage. The lift entrance from the foyer also makes the main stage accessible for performers, presenters and equipment without having to enter the auditorium first, as was previously the case.
The staff is thrilled with its new auditorium and updated facilities. As the new millennium approaches, there is an excitement in the air about the potential that the new auditorium offers to expand the Library’s public programs, and to showcase and bring to life Canada’s published heritage.