New Appleby Branch Relocation Update – June 2025
We’re excited to share that the relocated New Appleby Branch is planning to open to the public on Monday, September 15, 2025! The new branch, located at 5151 New Street, is part of the larger Robert Bateman Community Centre project to create a brand-new recreational and educational hub, led by the City of Burlington.
At three times the size of the current location with 16,000 square feet of space, the branch will feature a large collection of materials to borrow, soundproof digital media rooms, comfortable seating, three bookable meeting rooms, and an engaging children’s area with space for families to read and play. Brock University Library will also have a dedicated space within the branch.
New Appleby On the Move
The last open day for the current New Appleby Branch is Friday, August 22, 2025. After this date, the branch will be closed to the public while moving activities are underway, so library services, holds pickup, and book returns will be unavailable. The closest BPL branch with full service is Central Branch, located at 2331 New Street.
From now until August, BPL staff will be preparing for the big move into the new location, so customers may notice emptier shelves and fewer programs at our current New Appleby location. Our goal is to minimize disruption as much as possible. We want to extend a sincere thank you to our customers for your patience and understanding during this transition period.
Building Together, For All
“I look forward to welcoming the community to enjoy the relocated and expanded branch of Burlington Public Library at the Robert Bateman Community Centre. As our community grows, library use is increasing, and this expansion serves that need. Libraries are cornerstones of strong, connected communities, and this new location will be a welcoming space for residents of all ages to read, learn, create, and come together. This facility reflects Burlington’s ongoing investment in education, innovation, and lifelong learning—values that are essential as our city grows. I know this new space will quickly become a favourite destination for families, students, and community groups across Burlington.” – Mayor Marianne Meed Ward, City of Burlington
“Burlington Public Library has been working closely with the City of Burlington and Brock University to completely transform the former high school cafeteria into a bright and inviting library space. With only a few months until we open our doors to the public, we’re looking forward to welcoming our community to a larger branch. It takes a community to build a library, and we sincerely thank everyone who played a part in making this project a reality.” – Lita Barrie, CEO, Burlington Public Library
“As Brock University continues to grow its connection to the Burlington community, we are thrilled to play a part in the creation of the new public library branch. Brock Library will have a dedicated space within New Appleby Branch, providing improved access to University resources for both the Brock and wider Burlington communities. We look forward to helping enhance learning opportunities for all through this new collaboration.” – Lesley Rigg, President and Vice-Chancellor, Brock University
“Libraries are meant to foster community, and the collaboration between Brock University Library and Burlington Public Library is reflective of that common goal. We’re excited to leverage the strengths of both libraries at the new branch to better serve Brock students and the Burlington community.” – Nicole Nolan, Brock University Librarian
Photo (l-r): City of Burlington Mayor Marianne Meed Ward, Brock University Librarian Nicole Nolan,
Brock University President & Vice-Chancellor Lesley Rigg, Burlington Public Library CEO Lita Barrie
Important Dates
Wed August 13: Last day to place holds for pickup at the current New Appleby Branch.
Thu August 21: Last day to pick up holds at the current location.
Fri August 22: Last day of operation at the current location.
Mon September 15: OPENING DAY of New Appleby Branch at 5151 New Street.
Looking Forward
Construction crews are working hard to get the new branch ready, completing the final touches on lighting, flooring, paint, and furniture. Check out some of the latest construction photos of the new branch.
A view from the southeast, looking across the new branch.
Inside one of the meeting rooms.
The work and study space takes shape!
Stay in Touch
You can sign up for our eNewsletter to stay up-to-date on the latest BPL news, including the relocation project. Check our New Appleby Branch Project web page for more updates as the project moves forward.
For more information about the Robert Bateman Community Centre, visit the City of Burlington’s website.
