Orono Library – 136 years young – awarded historical designation by Clarington

The 136-year-old Orono Library has earned its historical stripes after being designated under the Ontario Heritage Act by the Muncipality of Clarington.

Built in 1882 and featuring an Italianate architectural style, the library on Church Street in the northeast Clarington hamlet has long been an integral part of the community’s history and now has heritage protections to keep it that way.

The Clarington Heritage Committee recommended its designation in 2022 and worked with Clarington Library, Museums & Archives staff to complete accessibility upgrades the next year “to ensure it continues to serve all members of the community while preserving the building’s unique heritage.”

The Orono Mill stone, another significant community heritage piece, was moved back to the library property in March 2024 – coinciding with the library’s re-opening.

“The Orono Library property is a valued and important part of the history and character of the village. This designation will help us preserve the treasured heritage elements of the Orono Library and the gardens around it. We want to make sure the historic character of Clarington is not lost as our municipality grows,” said Clarington Mayor Adrian Foster.

Under the Ontario Heritage Act, this iconic property and the park-like setting it sits on will be preserved as a local landmark in the community for years to come.

“Clarington Library, Museums & Archives is committed to preserving and exhibiting Clarington’s cultural heritage, and with this designation, we will continue to champion these values in our community,” said Clarington Library, Museums & Archives CEO Monika Machacek.

To learn more about the library and other historical buildings in Clarington, visit www.cplma.ca.