Help write the next chapter
of the Fonthill Branch.
The Fonthill Branch is at the heart of a thriving, fast-growing community — a place where seniors, students, and families come together to learn, connect, and thrive. Just steps away from two schools and nestled within a dense residential area, the library is more than a building — it’s a cornerstone of community life.
But after almost 40 years without renovation, the library is overdue for a transformation. We’re undertaking an exciting two-phase renovation to breathe new life into the existing location at 43 Pelham Town Square.
Phased Renovation
The Fonthill Renovation will be completed in two phases, with Phase One expected to start in spring 2026.
Phase One
$1.5 million – Spring 2026 – Fully funded by the Town of Pelham.
A New, Welcoming Entrance
The existing entrance will be replaced with automatic sliding doors, improving ease of access for seniors, families with strollers, and anyone with mobility needs. New display cases for local history and library displays will be installed.
Enhanced Program Room
The current program space will be enlarged and completely refurbished to support high-demand programming and community use.
Accessibility Upgrades
Main floor restrooms will be redesigned to meet AODA standards to ensure everyone feels welcome and accommodated.
Phase Two
$2.5 million – Timeline TBD
Main Floor Transformation
The layout will be reconfigured to increase flexibility and create larger, more versatile spaces for programming, study, and collaboration.
Barrier-Free Access to the Lower Level
A new passenger elevator will be installed, finally opening access to the unused basement — turning it into a vibrant, functional extension of the library.
Lower-Level Expansion
The revitalized basement will include:
New meeting rooms
Staff workspaces to support better operations
Dedicated storage for local history materials
Support This Project
Your gift will help ensure your local library continues to stimulate minds for years to come. Every dollar helps ensure the library remains accessible, vibrant, and ready to meet the needs of everyone—from toddlers to seniors, from newcomers to lifelong learners. Donations can be made online or at any LPPL branch.
Donors giving gifts of $2,500 and up will have the option of being recognized (or memorializing a loved one) on the donor wall. Pledges can be made monthly (online) or yearly for up to 5 years.
Naming opportunities are available starting at $25,000. For more information, please contact Julie Andrews.
Donate Online
Donate online using CanadaHelps. Make a one-time gift or set up an automatic monthly contribution.
DONATE ONLINE
Donate by Mail or In-Person
Complete the donation form and return to your nearest LPPL branch or mail to:
Fonthill Branch
Lincoln Pelham Public Library
43 Pelham Square
Fonthill, ON, L0S 1E0
Donation of Securities & Stocks
Make a donation of stocks and securities. For assistance, please contact Julie Andrews.
What is the total cost of the project?
The estimated cost is $4 million.
How is the project being funded?
Funding will come from different sources, including:
Grant funding: In 2024, $200,000 was awarded from the Ontario Trillium Foundation toward accessible shelving designated for the renovated branch, which was installed in fall 2025. Grant funding will continue to be sought as opportunities arise.
Municipal funding: The Town of Pelham has directed $1.5 million from reserves to fund Phase One of this project.
Fundraising: A capital campaign is underway to support Phase Two of this project, with a goal of $2.5 million.
How can I support this project?
Donations toward the Fonthill Branch renovation can be made in-person or online. For naming opportunities, please contact Julie Andrews: jandrews@lppl.ca.
When will construction start?
Construction is dependent on funding. Phase One is expected to start in spring 2026. Phase Two will begin when the necessary funds have been raised.
How did you come up with this plan?
Community surveys, use patterns, staff and community input, demographic and growth information have informed the plan to expand and renovate the library in Fonthill.
How will I access library services during the closure?
Library customers can visit library branches in Fenwick, Vineland, and Beamsville. LPPL’s Bookmobile will also provide satellite service at different locations in Fonthill on a set schedule. LPPL cardholders can also use their LPPL card at any library in Niagara and use reciprocal borrowing at St. Catharines and Niagara Falls public libraries.