Connaught Library

In 1928, the West End Elector's Society began lobbying the Regina Public Library Board for a library branch to serve their neighbourhood. Three years and $22,000 later, Connaught Library Branch opened its doors. It was designed by Joseph Warburton, who also designed Albert Library. The Poole Construction Company began work on the library in 1930 and completed it in 1931. The building's Classical Georgian architecture represents "strength, permanency and stability," according to the Canadian Register of Historic Places.

The compact one-storey library is masonry construction with a gabled roof. The entranceway features carved Manitoba Tyndall Stone, arched windows, and an oriel window above the main doors.

The library has welcomed a steady stream of patrons over the years, and serves as a gathering place for community events. It is an important community hub for Cathedral Village, offering educational, cultural and children's programs. Inside are more than 30,000 books, as well as DVDs, CDs, public computers, and meeting rooms.

In 1984, Connaught Library received Municipal Heritage Property designation. It was nearly closed and demolished in 2003, but a feisty public campaign convinced the city's mayor that Cathedral Village needed a library, and that the beautiful historic building should be repaired.

In 2006, Connaught Library Branch was listed on the Canadian Register of Historic Places. Today it is one of the oldest buildings in Regina's library system. Active citizens demanded a library in 1928, and have continued to defend its existence, a living testament to how much citizens value Connaught Library Branch.