We bought a library!
and we transformed it into a learning centre.
You know that feeling when something unexpected comes across your path, and before you know it, you’re on a brand-new adventure? For us, it wasn’t a zoo like in the movies (We Bought a Zoo!) - it was an old, vacant library.
It started with a daydream - every time we drove past the old Monkton library. Wondering what would - what could - become of the now empty building. We weren’t sure how to make it happen, but we started asking questions and speaking our vision out loud. We got a look inside. Slightly worn, with a hint of nostalgia hanging in the air, it was begging for a second life.
We looked at each other. Could we do this? We have a history of tackling building projects. We could do this.
“We could turn this into something amazing, right?” We were envisioning a complete transformation - turning that library into a treatment and resource centre for individuals who could benefit from a range of learning supports.
From Books to Brilliance
Walking through the old library's doors, we could feel the potential in the air. The shelves still carried that distinct old-book smell, the floors creaked with history. But we didn’t just see a library—we saw a future. A future where this space would become a place of learning and growth, a place where individuals with learning differences could find the support they needed - whether it was through speech language pathology (SLP), applied behaviour analysis (ABA), or other specialized services and programs.
We dared to imagine the former space, once designed as a resource for the community through access to books for learning and leisure, transformed into a space for therapy sessions, where children, youth and adults could work on developing their skills, or learn ways to support their kids. It would be perfect for group learning activities, helping kids, teens and adults alike build confidence and tackle their goals.
If you've met me in real life - you know just how determined I can be once I've made up my mind. My mind was set and I channeled all that energy to champion turning this once-quiet library into a vibrant, supportive environment where individuals could thrive.
Business plan - check.
Pitch for funding - check.
Putting in our offer with a hope and a prayer - check.
Planning, replanning, and planning some more - check.
Permit - check.
The Transformation
As we started the renovation process, something beautiful happened: people began to take notice. Neighbours stopped by to check in on our progress, curious about what we were doing. When we explained our vision of a learning centre, we were met with enthusiasm and support.
One day at a time. One to-do list item checked off at a time.
Demo - check.
Framing - check.
Insulation - check.
Sound proofing - check.
New electrical - check.
New HVAC systems - check.
New septic - check.
Flooring - check.
Drywall and painting - check.
Soft launch - check.
The Journey
Renovating the old library wasn't without its challenges. There were moments when the project felt daunting, and we wondered if we’d ever see the finished product. But every time we faced a setback, we reminded ourselves of our purpose: to create a safe, welcoming space for individuals who needed specialized learning support. A hope, a vision, many prayers, many lending helping hands, determination and raw stubbornness pulled us through.
Slowly, the building began to take shape. The old empty shelves were replaced with learning spaces. Spaces now lined with educational tools and materials tailored to help our learners succeed. What was once a quiet library is now a lively centre for growth and development, buzzing with the energy of people learning, laughing, and connecting.
A New Chapter
Buying the library was just the beginning. We took a space that was meant for reading and repurposed it into a place of learning, growth, and healing.
We took care to repurpose parts of the old library wherever we could - such as leaving a column exposed as a reminder of the building's history, and using the bookshelves we removed as supports and backing in the walls to provide additional strength for mounting grab bars and wall-mounted fixtures.
And now, every time a child, teen or adult walks through those doors, ready for their therapy session or group learning adventure, or a parent comes in with renewed hope, we’re reminded why we took this leap.
We didn’t just buy an old library. We invested in something far more important - a community of learners, dreamers, and achievers. And that’s a story worth telling.
