Join the patrons of Vancouver Public Library''s Collingwood branch library and guests to recognize Collingwood branch library as one of Vancouver Heritage Foundation's "125 Places That Matter" in Vancouver, BC. According to their website, the Vancouver Heritage Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to "supporting the conservation of heritage buildings and structures in recognition of their contribution to the city's economy, sustainability, and culture." The "125 Places That Matter" is a program designed by the Vancouver Heritage Foundation to celebrate Vancouver's 125th birthday in 2011 by recognizing "people, places and events that helped shaped our city." Sites were nominated by citizens and then voted on. Those sites that made the list earned a plaque and a marker and description of its importance on a Google map of all the sites.
Designed by British Columbian architects Harold Semmens and Douglas Simpson, the building opened in July 1951. The building is distinctive for its striking Modernist design, influencing library design in the region from Kelowna to New Westminster, BC. Because of the accolades surrounding Collingwood branch library's design, Harold Semmens and Douglas Simpson received the commission to design Vancouver Public Library's former central library located at Robson and Burrard Streets. The design of the Central Library at Robson and Burrard Streets went on to win the Massey silver medal for excellence in Canadian Architecture in 1958.
Date of the Plaque Presentation: Thursday, July 26, 2012
Time: 2.00 pm Pacific Standard Time
Place: Collingwood branch library, 2985 Kingsway, Vancouver
