Orono Library Designated Under Ontario Heritage Act
The Orono Library, located at 127 Church Street North, has been designated under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act. The building, constructed in 1882, features an Italianate architectural style. The Clarington Heritage Committee evaluated and recommended its designation in 2022 due to its cultural heritage value.
Accessibility upgrades were completed in 2023 in collaboration with Clarington Library, Museums & Archives staff. Additionally, the Orono Mill stone was moved back to the library property in March 2024, coinciding with the library's reopening.
Clarington Mayor Adrian Foster stated that the designation aims to preserve the heritage elements of the Orono Library and its surrounding gardens. Monika Machacek, Chief Executive Officer of Clarington Library, Museums & Archives, emphasized the organization's commitment to preserving Clarington's cultural heritage. Donald McKenzie, a board member, expressed satisfaction with the historical designation.
The designation under the Ontario Heritage Act ensures that the property and its park-like setting will be preserved as a local landmark in the downtown core of Clarington.