Interior renovation of the Library of the National Assembly

The Library of the National Assembly, an emblematic site of Quebec's built heritage, is housed in the Pamphile-Le May building, constructed between 1910 and 1915 near the north wing of the Parliament Building. Rising five stories high, this building is connected to the Parliament Building by a walkway on the first floor.

The library occupies the entire ground floor and basement of the building. Accessible to the general public and researchers, it hosts various activities requiring adapted spaces: diverse gatherings, thematic exhibitions, and research work. The program includes a reading room, consultation stations, a microfilm room, a meeting room, a processing room, as well as administrative spaces featuring a reception desk and individual as well as open workspaces for librarians, curators, technicians, and interns.

The reorganization of the spaces has enhanced the site by interpreting the architects' original intentions, evident in the architecture, particularly in the symmetrical organization of the plan and the monumentality of its longitudinal axis. Main strategies were adopted to highlight these qualities:

• Public access has been repositioned from the central aisle, thereby enhancing the perception of the library's nave upon arrival. The repositioning of the public entrance required connecting the entrance hall to the east vestibule by removing a staircase added around 1970 that blocked this passage. A new monumental, spiral staircase now allows fluid circulation to the library.
• The central aisle has been cleared of consultation furniture and decorations, highlighting the beauty of the original finishes and architectural elements: the light mosaic floor, the coffered ceiling subtly lit, the marble columns, the woodwork, the steel shelving, and the mezzanine railings.
• The shelving rhythm and the use of the mezzanines have been optimized to separate public spaces from administrative areas.

To ensure user comfort, meet the library's needs, and ensure compatibility with current and future uses, various elements have been added. These contemporary, understated, and identifiable additions contribute to the site's nobility. The reception desk, with its glossy finish reflecting the shine of the white mosaic, has been placed at the heart of the library near the entrance vestibule for priority users (parliament employees). Opposite this vestibule, a low display case presents the thematic exhibition in the alcove closed off by the magnificent stained glass window by Guido Nincheri "Je puise mais n’épuise." This window has been expertly illuminated by a custom LED panel.

The cultural and historical importance of the National Assembly Library has been a source of inspiration for everyone involved in its renovation. The individuals responsible for its operation, the professionals in charge of the intervention, and the many specialized workers and heritage artisans who participated in the work have all united their efforts. They have thus continued the work begun over a century ago, with the aim of ensuring its preservation and enhancing this jewel of our collective heritage.