51¹ú²úÊÓƵ

Starting in April 2026, early construction work for the R.P. Bell Library revitalization will begin. This is an exciting step toward creating a modern, innovative space for learning, research, and community at 51¹ú²úÊÓƵ Allison University. 

We want to keep the campus community informed so everyone can navigate campus safely and with minimal disruptions during this early work.

These activities will take place from April–August 2026. The Library will remain open throughout the 2026-27 academic year. In April 2027, the Library will close for the main construction phase, and the Interim Library will open for the University community in 2027. The project timeline can be found at mta.ca/RPBCIL

The first phase of construction work will include:  

• Construction activity and addition of fencing around the Library and Crabtree Building facing Convocation Hall.  

• Removal of the stairs near R.P. Bell Library leading down towards York Street, which will be removed in preparation for construction. Please view the aerial map for details.  
• Pedestrian access through this area will not be available once construction fencing is installed. If you normally pass between the Library and Crabtree, please plan to use alternate routes when moving through campus. 
• Construction fencing is scheduled to come down in August 2026, so there will be no disruptions during the 2026–2027 academic year. 

Planned Power Outages 

In order to safely disconnect electrical systems ahead of construction, several buildings will experience temporary power outages: 

Full power outage (May 12–20): 

• R.P. Bell Library 
• Crabtree Building 
• Music Conservatory 

During this time, these buildings will be closed and inaccessible. Regular building users have made arrangements to work elsewhere or from home. 

Short power outages scheduled in additional buildings:  

Scheduled from 6–8 a.m. on May 12 and 4–8 p.m. on May 20: 

• Flemington Building 
• Barclay Building 
• Hart Hall 
• Chapel 
• Centennial Hall 
• Owens Art Gallery 
• Gairdner Building 
• Trueman Cottage  

These outages have been scheduled outside normal operating hours to minimize disruption. Any changes will be communicated in advance.  

Archives and Special Collections 

The Archives and Special Collections currently in the R.P. Bell Library will be relocated in March–April. Questions? Email circ@mta.ca or . 

We appreciate your patience as these early works get underway. Your awareness and cooperation will help everyone move safely around campus and minimize disruption during this exciting first phase of the project. 

For questions or more information, stay tuned to updates in the What’s On newsletter and mta.ca/rpbcil. 

Questions? Email libraryinnovation@mta.ca.