By: Saeed Akhtar, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
At its May 20, 2025, meeting, Lakeshore council approved the rental of a temporary facility to house the Stoney Point library branch. The decision follows the closure of the original location earlier this year due to air quality concerns.
Council unanimously approved the transfer of $80,000 from reserves to fund a temporary library and washroom facility at Stoney Point Park for up to one year.
The branch was closed April 30 after patrons reported throat and eye irritation during warmer weather.
With construction planned at Stoney Point Community Park, the temporary library is now expected to be placed in the parking lot of the former Stoney Point Tavern, purchased by the town in 2023.
“We know how important this facility is to community members, and we’ve prioritized the project to ensure they can access the library branch as soon as possible,” said Frank Jeney, corporate leader of community health and safety.
Council also approved a motion directing administration to bring forward a report on options for a semi-permanent solution for the Stoney Point library facility.
The allocated funds will cover a 60-foot open-plan trailer, a separate washroom unit, and all associated installation, setup and safety measures for a one-year period.
An opening date for the temporary site has not yet been confirmed. However, a statement from the municipality said, “Lakeshore will be working with the Essex County Library to determine a timeline for the swift return of library services to the community of Stoney Point/Pointe-aux-Roches. We understand how critical this facility is to community members and are dedicated to making it happen as quickly as possible.”
Council also passed a notice of motion directing administration to prepare a report on options for a semi-permanent library solution in Stoney Point.
