Just in time for Canada’s 150th birthday, the Richmond Public Library hosted the official opening of the Launchpad. Mayor Malcolm Brodie and Richmond Public Library Chief Librarian Susan Walters amongst others made the opening official at the ribbon cutting ceremony.
Launchpad is a collaborative learning space dedicated to enhancing and educating digital literacy in the Brighouse branch of the Richmond Public Library. In early 2017 the Launchpad was renovated and expanded with funding from a successful Canada 150 grant application. The RATIO-designed space provides community learning opportunities and features a lecture space, a dedicated classroom, a flexible learning space, and creation stations.
“The re-designed Launchpad significantly increases the library’s ability to provide the public with interactive hands-on experiences with a wide variety of digital tools and services,” said Susan Walters, Chief Librarian at Richmond Public Library. “The new space also supports the new BC school curriculum with exciting programs that promote education, career, and economic success.
The library gratefully acknowledges the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program and the City of Richmond for their financial support for the new Launchpad. The library partnered with the architectural firm RATIO to design and build the new space.”
From Mike Mammone, RATIO principal:
“Congratulations to Susan Walters, Anne Bechard and all the staff for their hard work and passion dedicated to this great project. The Library’s highly innovative programming and outreach to both traditional library and high technology users is where all the heavy lifting was done. This kind of innovative user group programming is really what makes this type of space successful. The work at Richmond Public Library is a great example of where the development of a long term plan is essential to transition existing spaces into a modern communication and technology hub. A well thought out plan makes our jobs as architects easy. Well done RPL!!”
Learn more about the Launchpad:
RATIO’s Launchpad project concept
Richmond Public Library Launchpad programming
RATIO works with the City of Richmond and other municipalities on community infrastructure and cultural projects:
Vancouver Public Library – Digital Inspiration Lab – Concept
Pitt Meadows Recreation Centre
Brawn Pump Station in Langley, BC
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