The plan for Ādisōke in Ottawa, to serve as the main public library in the city and Canada’s national library, draws inspiration from the Ottawa River, with its stone and wood exterior mirroring the escarpment and the natural surroundings. Meanwhile the city’s breathtaking views will be showcased through expansive windows and transparent walls.
Set to open in the summer 2026, the topping off for the facility—designed by the joint venture (JV) of architects, Diamond Schmitt and KWC Architects Inc.—was recently celebrated.
The word Ādisōke, derived from Anishinābemowin, signifies the art of storytelling, a traditional method through which Indigenous people convey knowledge, culture, and history across generations. This concept embodies the core missions of the partner institutions: Library and Archives Canada (LAC), a guardian of Canadian and Indigenous narratives, and the Ottawa Public Library, which employs stories to foster community, inspire learning, kindle curiosity, and unite people.
To create their collaborative facility in Ottawa, these two partners have engaged residents and communities in a public co-design process since 2013. As a result, the architecture is a product of extensive and meaningful civic involvement, drawing from the insights of residents, Indigenous communities, and Canadians nationwide to produce an iconic destination. The building, designed to be both for and by the people, pays tribute to the city’s history and natural splendor. Its design echoes the Ottawa River, with a stone and wood exterior mirroring the escarpment and surrounding greenery, offering views of the city through expansive windows and transparent walls.
The design thoughtfully unites the two institutions under one roof for the first time, connecting their dedicated spaces with a spacious public forum that provides a wide range of meeting areas and technical resources for information exchange.
The facility comprises a sky-lit town hall gathering space, a versatile auditorium, a discovery centre for children, areas for Indigenous communities, a genealogy centre, creative centre, design studio, digital production centre, collaboration labs, maker spaces, reading rooms, meeting rooms, and cafes. Ādisōke also includes an outdoor plaza, terraces, and a Civic Reception Room on the top floor. It preserves and shares Canadian and Indigenous cultural and historical narratives through public programs, events, resources, and exhibitions.
With a focus on achieving net-zero carbon and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) gold certification, the building will incorporate climate-resilient strategies and offer accessibility through light-rail and multi-use pathways for cyclists and pedestrians. Anticipated to welcome more than a million visitors annually, this new hub responds to evolving technology, rising expectations, and changing demographics. Its innovative spaces and programs will be integral to Ottawa’s development as a smart city, contributing to the social and economic well-being of both local and national communities.
