Image Credit: Prince George Public Library
New Skylight

Work to replace skylight at downtown Prince George library underway

Jun 21, 2025 | 12:30 PM

PRINCE GEORGE — Work to replace the skylight at the Bob Harkins branch of the Prince George Public Library is underway and the city is asking people to be mindful of potential delays.

Crews are working to replace the skylight, which was installed in the 1980s, as it has reached the end of its service life.

“The skylight at the Bob Harkins Branch has developed leaks that pose a real risk to our facility, and to our collection every time it rains,” Library Director, Paul Burry, said in a news release.

“We are incredibly grateful to the City of Prince George for acting quickly to support this essential renovation. This project will ensure a safer, more comfortable, and more welcoming experience for everyone in our community.”

In that news release, city staff say they had exhausted all options for repair and determined that a replacement is necessary before another winter season.

Work is expected to cost up to $1.125 million because of rising material costs and the complexity of the project. According to the city, $900,000 will come via a grant from the Canada Community-Building Fund, while the remaining $225,000 is funded through the city’s General Infrastructure Reinvestment Fund.

The downtown library is expected to remain open while work takes place, though “minimal disruptions to service are expected.”

“Crews will make every effort to schedule work around library events and programs and will communicate any closures well in advance,” the City of Prince George said. “Safety of the public, library staff, and project team is a priority.”

The project is expected to be completed by late October, and the new skylight is estimated to have a life span of 30 to 40 years.