This project will equip the new Embrun Branch with innovative technology to enhance learning, creativity, and community engagement. The new 5,000-square-foot facility will replace the current 1,100-square-foot branch located within Pavilion La Croisée Elementary School. Originally intended as a temporary location, the existing space is overcrowded and presents liability concerns due to uncontrolled public access through the school.
Centrally located near residential and commercial areas, the new branch will provide greater accessibility, attract new users, and strengthen the Library’s presence in the community. With a collection focused primarily on French-language materials, the Embrun Branch will become a facility equal in size and importance to the Russell Branch, which primarily serves English-language readers. The new space will offer expanded opportunities for learning, cultural enrichment, and community participation, particularly for children and youth, newcomers, and rural Francophone residents.
Grant funding will help equip the new Multimedia Room with technology that encourages hands-on exploration, creativity, and interactive learning. Planned purchases include:
One After Mouse Interactive PLAY Touch Table to encourage collaborative play, problem-solving, and early learning.
One multicolour filament 3D printer to introduce users to design, technology, and creative innovation.
One Epson dye-sublimation printer to support creative printing and personalized projects.
One Cricut cutting machine to facilitate arts, crafts, and custom design activities.
One heat press to allow users to transfer designs onto suitable materials and create personalized items.
Together, these investments will transform the new Embrun Branch into a more dynamic, accessible, and engaging learning environment, expanding opportunities for residents to explore technology, develop new skills, and connect through shared experiences.
The Township of Russell Public Library enriches community life through arts, culture, and heritage while providing equitable access to quality services and resources in both official languages. Through a wide range of cultural, educational, and technology-based programs, the Library supports lifelong learning, social connection, and discovery for residents of all ages.
The project will foster digital literacy, creativity, and hands-on learning for children, youth, and adults by providing access to an interactive play table and innovative digital and technical equipment. Resources will include a multicolour filament 3D printer, an Epson dye-sublimation printer, a Cricut cutting machine, and a heat press. These tools will enable participants to explore design, digital creation, prototyping, and personalized product-making through engaging, hands-on activities and workshops.
By offering opportunities to experiment with emerging technologies, develop practical skills, and collaborate on creative projects, the Library will help bridge the digital divide, encourage intergenerational learning, and promote STEAM education (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) in an inclusive and accessible community space. This initiative will strengthen the Library’s role as a hub for innovation, lifelong learning, and community engagement, empowering participants of all ages to discover new interests, build confidence, and develop skills for the future.
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Une superbe initiative qui sera profitable à toute la communauté!!
Une superbe initiative qui sera profitable à toute la communauté!!!
The Russell Public Library would benefit so much from this initiative! Thank you so much for considereing them.
These additions to our library will support thousands of small town, rural and franco-Ontarian youth to learn and work with technology not other wise available.
Children and adults could both benefit from this project. We look forward to spending more time at the library with the new tech.
Une très belle initiative pour nos enfants. Ils faut les supporter pour l’avenir de nos jeunes. Bravo et félicitations pour ce projet.