by Vi Isaac Powell River needs a cultural centre and a new museum. However, in the current shaky economic climate these two needs are not likely to be met. Meanwhile, let’s concentrate on another huge need in Powell River, a new public library. A modern state-of-the-art focal point would be a tremendous asset to this community, and to have this happening at our lovely Willingdon Beach is intensely exciting.
A workshop held mid-February was wonderfully well organized. Charts and handouts clearly laid out the issues for us: rationale for a new library, the benefits of a good library in today’s world, how the project may be funded, the process by which City of Powell River council made the site choice, et cetera. Hats off to the people who put this together. The presentations by the architects were clear and concise. I believe their mandate was to present options for building types for the council-chosen site and, as such, it was beautifully done.
Most people who travel are impressed by great architecture. Powell River is not likely ever to have a spectacular cathedral but we can have a different attraction, a new library. Symphony Orchestra Academy of the Pacific and International Choral Kathaumixw already make Powell River an international destination, evidence that Powell River is not a “dying community” as some naysayers would have us believe. Our population has remained constant for several years. While some people are moving out, others are moving in. Many great progressive ideas are surfacing for our city and I’m delighted to know that our forward-thinking council has hired a coordinator to work on some of these concepts.
We would do well to pay attention to what is happening in other places. For example Chemainus has made a remarkable comeback since the mill shut down. It is now a tourist destination. Fogo Island off the northeast coast of Newfoundland is accessible only by a one-hour ferry ride. The community with a population of 2,700 nearly died with the end of cod fishing. Zita Cobb has returned to her birthplace and has “committed herself to sparking an economic renaissance” on Fogo Island because she believes rural communities are the “anchor of our culture and our heritage” (excerpt from CTV.ca W5). Seven modern artists’ studios have been constructed as working homes for filmmakers as well as visual artists in residence. A new modern seafront hotel is opening this year. The island is alive and thriving with tourism.
Powell River, with 10 times the population of Fogo Island, has a vibrant economy of secondary industries, home businesses, first-class schools, a university, artists, dancers and musicians. We will continue to increase our provincial, national and international presence, and the new library will add impetus to progress.
Vi Isaac is a local artist, retired school teacher and volunteer at many events in Powell River.
