About the Library
Collections and Programs
About 47,000 items are borrowed every year from St. John's Library. Items for loan include Adult and Children's fiction and non-fiction, graphic novels, magazines, music, audiobooks, video games (Xbox, PS4, Nintendo Wii & Switch) and movies (DVDs and Blu-ray). As a branch of Winnipeg Public Library, members can also access an extensive eLibrary for downloadable eBooks, eMagazines, information resources and online journals, and streaming movies and music.
St. John's Library also features an Indigenous Resources collection which includes fiction, Indigenous language resources, and titles on culture, art, and contemporary issues.
The Library offers programs and workshops for all ages. Browse our Upcoming Events to find what's on. Some programs require registration. All library programs are free.
Facility and Services
St. John's Library has two levels with the first floor housing the collections and information/checkout. The basement level has been completely renovated to include two tutorial rooms. More information about tutorial rooms St. John's Library is wheelchair accessible.
For your convenience, there is a 24 hour book return at the Machray side of the building.
The Library has bookable computers with MS Office and Internet access, and free WiFi. There are tables for studying. Photocopying and printing is available for a fee. Scanning to email is free.
History
St. John's Library is one of two branches built with grants from the Carnegie Foundation - the other being Cornish Library. The other Carnegie funded library, built in 1905, is at 380 William Ave. This main William Ave. branch served until the 1970s when the Centennial Library was built - renamed the Millennium Library following renovations in 2005.
The Library was built with a grant of $35,000 to serve the rapidly growing population of the North End of Winnipeg. Architect John N. Semmens, chose a layout based on the requirements of Carnegie funded libraries with a rectangular plan, elevated stone foundation and staircase, and brickwork with ornamental details. The Library opened June 2, 1915, and boasts beautiful dark oak woodwork and antique reading tables. Two fireplaces and a decorative mezzanine remain to this day and evoke the genteel libraries of the early twentieth century. The 7,090 sq. ft. Library has been desigated a Grade II heritage building.
Many Winnipeggers, including generations of teens who attended nearby St. John's High School, have fond memories of the Library and the important role it played in their lives. The Library continues to be highly valued by area residents and is an essential resource for the community.
The St. John's Library re-opened on July 5, 2019 after renovations that include a redesign of adult, children's and teen areas on the main floor, computer area, and study and leisure spaces. A new extension to the south side of the building includes a reading area and an accessible entrance and washrooms.
More on the St. John's Library from the Historical Buildings Committee.
More on the history and renovations of St. John's Library from Heritage Winnipeg.