Books & Audiobooks
The Waterloo Public Library’s McCormick Branch (originally called Parkside Branch) holds a special place in the WPL family. Back in 1973, it became the first branch in our system and forged new ground by combining a library location with a recreation space. Take a read through the rest of McCormick’s history as we celebrate its 50th birthday this year.
Jim Brown - McCormick Branch - 1973
Waterloo Needs a New Library Branch
As the Lakeshore Neighbourhood and the population of Waterloo grew, it became clear that another library location was needed. The Waterloo Public Library worked with the City of Waterloo’s Community Services Department to create the concept for a combined arena and library facility. An early proposal from the library highlighted some of their priorities, such as ceilings high enough to accommodate windows above bookshelves, uninterrupted space for 12-foot bookshelves and air conditioning.
Photo: Chief Librarian, James Brown, during Parkside Branch set-up.
Welcome to the World, Parkside Branch!
On September 15, 1973 the Parkside Branch and the Albert McCormick Arena opened to the public. After speeches and the ribbon cutting, over 500 people explored the new space. Brown was chosen as one of the main interior colours in an effort to reduce the appearance of dirt. The library was filled with 3000 books that were transferred from the Main Library and a large collection of new purchases.
In the first three months, almost 15,000 items were borrowed from the Parkside Branch. It quickly became a popular destination for families who enjoyed ice skating at the arena and then visiting the library.
Much like today, the early years of the Parkside Branch were filled with many exciting programs. A few of them include:
- The children’s Bookworm Club where members had the first chance to read new library books;
- Children’s folk music concerts with artists such as the Beirdo Brothers and Merrick Jerritt;
- A program called “Jungle Alive” which showcased South American wildlife;
- A theatrical production of Gordon Korman’s This Can’t Be Happening at Macdonald Hall novel;
- And many, many free film showings!
Albert McCormick
From “Parkside” to “McCormick” Branch
A big change came when the Waterloo Public Library decided to rename the Parkside Branch. In 1991, it became known as the McCormick Branch that we know and love today. The Publicity Committee decided to change the name to take advantage of the Albert McCormick Arena’s already-recognizable name and make it easier for people to find the library.
The “McCormick” name recognizes Albert McCormick and his contributions to hockey in Waterloo. He grew up in Waterloo and played hockey at St. Louis Parish’s outdoor rink. He went on to be a volunteer coach, convenor for the Peewee Association and was involved with the Waterloo Minor Hockey Association. Snow or shine, he opened up the Waterloo Memorial Arena at 6am every Saturday morning during hockey season. He was one of Waterloo’s most respected hockey volunteers in the 1950s and 1960s.
Photo: Albert McCormick
Now sporting the new “McCormick” name, the library needed a new sign. WPL staff spent many hours working with City of Waterloo engineers to create the perfect sign to represent both the library and the arena. Much of the conversation happened over handwritten notes and drawings that were sent back and forth via fax machine. These faxes are preserved in the Ellis Little Local History Room.
McCormick Branch Today
In the last few years, the McCormick Branch has been on a lot of new adventures. It met the ups and downs of the COVID-19 Pandemic with a smile and continued to provide excellent service to the dedicated McCormick customers. In 2021, the branch received a makeover that included new shelving and a brand-new service desk. The following year, the hours were extended and for the first time ever, the public could visit the McCormick Branch on Mondays.
After 50 years, McCormick remains a beloved branch of the Waterloo Public Library. We couldn’t celebrate without saying a big thank you to everyone who has visited and supported the McCormick Branch over the years. When asked to reflect, branch supervisor, Jennifer Webb, said “McCormick customers are truly amazing. They are warm and friendly, and I feel privileged to get to work with them and be a part of this community.”
Photo: New service desk at McCormick Branch in 2021
McCormick Branch, 2021
All of the photos and information in this post can be found in the Ellis Little Local History Room at our Main Library, or in our digital archive at Our Ontario.