A Toronto library has just closed its doors for a major renovation, but it'll be years before it opens up again.

Built in 1966, the TPL Centennial Branch has been a North York staple for nearly 60 years — but for the first time in its history, it's undergoing a massive renovation, closing it to the public for what will likely be several years.

The renovation, if you can even call it that, is actually a complete demolition of the existing building, with an entirely new building planned to be built on the current library's land.

According to the library's website, the new space will be more than double the size of the existing building, expanding from nearly 7,000 square-feet to 15,000, on top of being TPL's first-ever net-zero branch.

The new building also promises a redesigned floor layout that will allow for multi-purpose meeting, program and study spaces, additional washrooms and a large plaza which can serve as a community gathering space.

The early renderings of the new library, designed by Hamilton-based architecture, engineering and design firm, mcCallum Sather, in association with architect Ken Fukushima, could not possibly present a more different structure for Centennial Library than the one that existst there currently.

An aerial view of the library.

The construction project also promises to revitalize the public areas surrounding the library, including adding a canopy to the public space in front.

The library courtyard. 

The library will even feature an outdoor courtyard to "extend the library space beyond the building," providing the opportunity to read, study and work under the sun without having to check a book out.

The entrance of the library.

According to a recent Facebook post by Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow, ground officially broke on the project on Wednesday, Aug 7, with Chow herself digging in one of the first ceremonial shovels — but the wait is only just beginning for North York residents to explore the new library.

According to TPL's website, the renovations are expected to run for approximately the next three years, keeping the library's doors closed to the public until at least 2027.

In the meantime, Centennial Library's collection has been moved to Barbara Frum Library, near the intersection of Bathurst and Lawrence.