Ten years after the Warman Library moved to its current location, the public can finally access the facility without having to enter through the Warman Community Middle School (WCMS).
Security doors were recently installed in a corridor to separate the school from the Warman Home Centre Communiplex (WHCC).
A separate door leading from the corridor into the library was installed to allow public access to the library, which is used by both the school and the public.
The new security doors also allow access to the theatre, located near the library, from the WHCC.
The Warman Community Middle School was completed in 2013 as a joint-use facility that is connected to the WHCC. The school, one of several Prairie Spirit School Division (PSSD) facilities in Warman, uses one of two large gymnasiums in the WHCC during school hours; that gym is also used by the public during non-school hours.
Until now, patrons accessing the library were obliged to enter through the main doors of the WCMS and make their way directly to the library, located on the upper floor of the building.
However, that arrangement was less than ideal because it created security issues for the school, according to PSSD Learning Superintendent Peggy Matilla-Bains.
“It’s been a concern since the school first opened,” said Matilla-Bains. “We have had individuals coming in and wandering around the school; often simply because they didn’t know where the library was.
“But, we did have a few instances where the RCMP was called because of people that had access to the school that shouldn’t have.”
Matilla-Bains said during regular security and lockdown drills at the school, RCMP officers identified the lack of separation between the WHCC and the WCMS as a weak point that needed to be addressed.
“These doors provide another layer of security,” said Matilla-Bains.
A ribbon-cutting marking the new entrance was held Tuesday, April 30, with representatives of the city, school division, and library board and staff.
WCMS Principal Lisa Mason welcomed the new arrangement, saying it helps keep the public and students separate during the days when school is in session.
The library staff and volunteer board have also advocated for a new, separate entrance that would allow the public access from the WHCC.
Incoming library board chair Grace Beck credited past board chair Shelby Smith for her efforts at pushing for a separate entrance from the WHCC for residents.
“The public has been wanting easier access from the communiplex for a long time,” said Beck. “We’re grateful to have this in place now.”
Warman Mayor Gary Philipchuk said the new entrance provides better access for residents wanting to also utilize the amenities of the WHCC without having to make an inconvenient trip around the outside of the building.
“And, importantly, it ensures student safety remains a top priority for all involved,” added Philipchuk.
Library patrons with mobility challenges can access the elevator on the ground floor of the WHCC to access the second floor, on which the library and theatre are located.