.Located in the heart of the Vieux Saint-Laurent Quartier culturel district, the library attracted hundreds of people who came to discover a wide variety of programs throughout the weekend.

Visitors of all ages and backgrounds, reflecting the diversity of Saint-Laurent’s population, had a chance to enjoy many activities during this festive weekend, including exhibitions, workshops, a book sale and two special moments:

• The unveiling of the mural and art trail “Histoires sous l’arc-en-ciel” created by Cara Carmina, who drew inspiration from the emotions aroused during workshops at the library with a francization group from Cégep de Saint-Laurent and young people from École alternative Jonathan. The drawings by the students at this school made it possible to create a vibrant mural that now welcomes families at the entrance to the Youth section. As for the words and emotions of the francization group, they were transcribed in the fresco on the floor that crosses the Jardin de lecture reading garden, inviting future users to enter the library.
• Michel Rabagliati, author of the famous Paul comic book series, in particular, described his artistic career path during a captivating lecture.

A library rooted in its community

Opened in 1965, the Bibliothèque du Vieux-Saint-Laurent features architecture typical of the 1960s. It is located in the heart of the Vieux-Saint-Laurent Quartier culturel district, near the Cégep de Saint-Laurent, the Musée des métiers d’arts du Québec and the Du Collège metro station.

In 2024, the library recorded a 25% increase in the number of users compared to the previous year, with more than 135,000 visits, 14,600 members and nearly 200,000 loans, ranking 18th out of 45 libraries in the Montréal network in terms of loans.

This success is based, in particular, on its range of more than 120,000 documents, including original collections: vinyl records, zines, themed and multisensory kits and games.

The Bibliothèque du Vieux-Saint-Laurent’s innovations in its mobile and community services include its biblio-mobile (a mobile library), its biblio-maison (a home library service), a mini-library in the Chameran neighbourhood and partnerships with numerous local and Montréal organizations. Its FabricARThèque, opened in 2018, offers a space for creating crafts that is accessible to one and all.

Since 1965, the Bibliothèque du Vieux-Saint-Laurent has been a true shining light on our community for its cultural achievements. This 60th anniversary is an opportunity to highlight its progressive development, its deep roots and its essential role in the cultural and social life of Saint-Laurent residents. Recalling that it was volunteer residents who first came up with the idea for this library in the 1940s, we can now say that, thanks to its inclusive and inspiring programs and innovative services, it continues to bring generations together around knowledge, creativity and sharing. We wish the library a happy anniversary and many more years of promoting literature and culture in Saint-Laurent.