Imagine students whispering here once. Let’s uncover the story of the Plateau Mont-Royal Library. This building houses both the library and the Maison de la culture. It stands proudly facing Mont-Royal metro station.
Originally, this was the Pensionnat Saint-Basile. The Sisters of Holy Cross wanted a new school. They chose this site in the Saint-Denis neighborhood. It sits on Mont-Royal Avenue between Berri and Rivard streets. Construction started in 1895. Classes began in August 1896. Prénoveau et Matineau were involved in its construction.
The school was named after Father Basile Moreau. He was the founder of Holy Cross. It also honored Mother Marie de Saint-Basile. She initiated the project. 2023 marked significant anniversaries for both. It was the 150th anniversary of Father Moreau’s death. Also, it marked the 100th anniversary of Mother Marie de Saint-Basile’s death.
In 1926, parish changes altered the school’s purpose. It became the Notre-Dame-du-Saint-Sacrement parish school. From 1952 to 1964, it was the École normale Ignace-Bourget. The Sisters of Holy Cross then gave it to the Montreal Catholic School Commission.
The city of Montreal bought the building in 1981. Since 1984, it has been the Maison de la culture and the Bibliothèque du Plateau-Mont-Royal. Today, the top of the building is used for housing.
The Plateau Mont-Royal Library stands as a legacy. Montreal has preserved this heritage. It is a cultural hub for the community. The building has seen many transformations. It started as a school. Now, it serves as a library and cultural center. Consider the many stories within these walls. From students to books, the Plateau Mont-Royal Library has enriched countless lives.