By Robin MacLennan
Ontario Construction News staff writer
Chief Greg Sarazin, Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation, and Band Councillor Frankie Cote, on behalf of Chief Dylan Whiteduck, Kitigan Zibi Anishinābeg, celebrated a construction milestone with Ottawa officials in late October with completion of the pouring of all five floors of Ādisōke, the Ottawa Public Library – Library and Archives Canada joint facility.
With the topping off now complete, work will begin on the iconic curved roof of the facility, to be constructed by PCL Construction.
At a ceremony, partners each signed a piece of structural steel that will be placed within the facility’s interior.
Ādisōke, designed by Diamond Schmitt Architects in joint venture with KWC Architects, will bring together the rich collections of a world-class public library and a national institution under one roof, giving life to the stories and histories that connect us.
“Today marks a significant milestone for the Ādisōke project as we celebrate and unveil its official branding,” said Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe. “The name Ādisōke means ‘storytelling’ in Anishinābemowin Algonquin language. As its name implies, Ādisōke will be a place where all are welcome, coming together to learn, connect and share stories and histories as its doors open in 2026.”
Official branding for the facility was also unveiled, depicting the power of storytelling, as well as the natural environment that surrounds the facility, supporting a space that is truly welcoming.
Set to open in 2026, the facility of Ādisōke will become a landmark destination in the Anishinābe Algonquin Nation’s territory, in what is now known as the National Capital Region. The site for is located on the unceded, traditional territory of the Anishinābe Algonquin Nation, who have occupied the area since time immemorial. The name Ādisōke, refers to the telling of stories in the Anishinābemowin Algonquin language.
“The branding for Ādisōke highlights all that is special about this project: the land on which it sits, the unique and valued partnership between Ottawa Public Library, Library and Archives Canada and the Anishinābe Algonquin Nation, and that we are building a place where all are welcome and belong,” said Councillor Matthew Luloff, Chair of the Ottawa Public Library Board.
