Old Town Hall/Library Fundraising Campaign

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About the Project

The Town of Aylmer is moving forward with the Library Expansion Project, based on Design Option 1 proposed by JPM Architecture Inc. and endorsed by Council. This design expands and modernizes the library while preserving the heritage character of the Old Town Hall and enhancing community access to library and cultural services.

This project will be funded through a combination of municipal investment and community fundraising. Community contributions are an important part of bringing this project to life.

Message from the Mayor

Our library is more than a building—it is a cornerstone of our downtown and a vital resource for residents of all ages. Keeping library services in the heart of Aylmer strengthens our community, supports local businesses, and ensures that everyone has access to learning, creativity, and connection.

On behalf of Council, I want to thank every donor who contributes to this important project. Your support helps us preserve a historic landmark while creating modern spaces that will serve our community for decades to come. Together, we can ensure that the Old Town Hall continues to be a place where stories are shared, ideas are explored, and our community thrives.

How to Support this Project

Your support will help bring the Library Expansion Project to completion.

Donate

A donation is an immediate financial contribution.

  • Minimum donation: $10

  • Tax receipts: Issued for donations $20 and over

  • Donations accepted online, in person at Town Hall, or by mail

Donate today!

Pledge

A pledge is a signed commitment to contribute in the future.

  • Pledges require a written agreement outlining the amount, payment schedule, and conditions.

  • The minimum pledge for this campaign is $1,000.

  • Pledges are only payable when construction begins. In the event that the project does not proceed, following the terms of the pledge agreement, pledges are cancelled.

  • Agreements may include recognition opportunities such as naming options (where eligible).

  • Donors acknowledge that Council may make necessary design adjustments while still delivering the approved project.

  • The Town will issue official donation receipts in accordance with CRA rules.

  • Pledges accepted in office at Town Hall 46 Talbot Street West, Aylmer. No appointment required.

Read the full pledge policy and the pledge agreement template.

Summary of Design Option 1

Design Option 1 envisions a modern addition on the west side of the building, connecting directly to the existing library on the ground floor. A glazed corridor will link the addition to the theatre on the north side of the upper floor. The expansion wraps around the south end of the building into the existing park space.

Key features include:

  • A two-storey addition on the west side

  • A single-storey addition extending into the park space on the south

  • A design that is contemporary yet sensitive, with the new construction touching the original building as lightly as possible

  • Improved integration between the library, theatre, and public spaces

This design increases flexible space for programming, collections, community use, and operational needs while maintaining the unique historic presence of the Old Town Hall.

View the full conceptual design drawings.



About the Project

The Town of Aylmer is moving forward with the Library Expansion Project, based on Design Option 1 proposed by JPM Architecture Inc. and endorsed by Council. This design expands and modernizes the library while preserving the heritage character of the Old Town Hall and enhancing community access to library and cultural services.

This project will be funded through a combination of municipal investment and community fundraising. Community contributions are an important part of bringing this project to life.

Message from the Mayor

Our library is more than a building—it is a cornerstone of our downtown and a vital resource for residents of all ages. Keeping library services in the heart of Aylmer strengthens our community, supports local businesses, and ensures that everyone has access to learning, creativity, and connection.

On behalf of Council, I want to thank every donor who contributes to this important project. Your support helps us preserve a historic landmark while creating modern spaces that will serve our community for decades to come. Together, we can ensure that the Old Town Hall continues to be a place where stories are shared, ideas are explored, and our community thrives.

How to Support this Project

Your support will help bring the Library Expansion Project to completion.

Donate

A donation is an immediate financial contribution.

  • Minimum donation: $10

  • Tax receipts: Issued for donations $20 and over

  • Donations accepted online, in person at Town Hall, or by mail

Donate today!

Pledge

A pledge is a signed commitment to contribute in the future.

  • Pledges require a written agreement outlining the amount, payment schedule, and conditions.

  • The minimum pledge for this campaign is $1,000.

  • Pledges are only payable when construction begins. In the event that the project does not proceed, following the terms of the pledge agreement, pledges are cancelled.

  • Agreements may include recognition opportunities such as naming options (where eligible).

  • Donors acknowledge that Council may make necessary design adjustments while still delivering the approved project.

  • The Town will issue official donation receipts in accordance with CRA rules.

  • Pledges accepted in office at Town Hall 46 Talbot Street West, Aylmer. No appointment required.

Read the full pledge policy and the pledge agreement template.

Summary of Design Option 1

Design Option 1 envisions a modern addition on the west side of the building, connecting directly to the existing library on the ground floor. A glazed corridor will link the addition to the theatre on the north side of the upper floor. The expansion wraps around the south end of the building into the existing park space.

Key features include:

  • A two-storey addition on the west side

  • A single-storey addition extending into the park space on the south

  • A design that is contemporary yet sensitive, with the new construction touching the original building as lightly as possible

  • Improved integration between the library, theatre, and public spaces

This design increases flexible space for programming, collections, community use, and operational needs while maintaining the unique historic presence of the Old Town Hall.

View the full conceptual design drawings.



  • Fundraising Progress

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    *This thermometer image is scaled to Aylmer's previously established fundraising goal of $500,000. A fundraising target has not yet been established for the currently proposed project.

    Past Updates:

    • 2026-02-09 - $292,000 ($291,000 being pledges, $1000 being donations)
    • 2026-01-29 - $156,000
    • 2026-01-28 - $126,000
    • 2026-01-08 - $25,000
    • 2025-12-18 - $20,000


  • Fundraising Campaign Reaches $292,000 in Pledged Support of the Aylmer Library Project

    Share Fundraising Campaign Reaches $292,000 in Pledged Support of the Aylmer Library Project on Facebook Share Fundraising Campaign Reaches $292,000 in Pledged Support of the Aylmer Library Project on Twitter Share Fundraising Campaign Reaches $292,000 in Pledged Support of the Aylmer Library Project on Linkedin Email Fundraising Campaign Reaches $292,000 in Pledged Support of the Aylmer Library Project link

    The Town of Aylmer is pleased to announce that the community fundraising campaign in support of the Aylmer Library project has now raised $292,000 in committed funds to date.

    Mayor Couckuyt thanked the individuals and families who have contributed so far. “This level of early support shows how much our community values strong library services and a vibrant downtown,” said the Mayor. “Every pledge helps us move closer to a space that better serves local families, students, seniors, and everyone who relies on the library.”

    Thank You to Our Donors for Your Support and Pledges

    The Town extends sincere thanks to the twenty-two supporters who have pledged to date, with specific thanks to:

    • Gerhard Blatz
    • Dennis & Bozena Boadway
    • Jack & Judith Couckuyt
    • Barbara Forsdike
    • Cynthia Grant
    • Matthew Greenway
    • Wayne Jolly
    • Hugh & Dorothy Mackenzie
    • Dr. Susan MacKenzie
    • Duncan & Barb Watterworth
    • Roberta Wilson
    • Michael & Catherine Sereda
    • Peter Unger
    • Cheryl & Noel Van Raes

    Why This Project Matters

    Aylmer’s current library space is constrained, limiting room for collections, seating, study space, children’s programming, and community gatherings. The project is focused on delivering an improved, modern library experience for residents, while strengthening the role of the library as a welcoming community hub in the downtown.

    How to Contribute

    Anyone interested in contributing or learning more about giving opportunities can contact: library-fundraising@town.aylmer.on.ca

    More information, including campaign updates, background documents, and donation/pledge details, is available at:

    • Fundraising campaign page: getinvolved.aylmer.ca/fundraising
    • Library decision-making process: getinvolved.aylmer.ca/aylmer-library

    Contact

    Town of Aylmer Clerk’s Department

    Phone: 519-773-3164

    clerks@town.aylmer.on.ca


Page last updated: 09 Feb 2026, 05:37 PM