The new Central Library is now open to the public in Calgary. The 240,000-square foot building is located in the East Village of the city.

According to a press release, the $245 million library features 30 community meeting areas, a performance hall, a 75,000-square foot outdoor plaza and greenery, exterior and interior artwork, a 12,000-square foot Children’s Library, dedicated spaces for teens, recording studios, and over 450,000 collection items.

Bill Ptacek, CEO for the Calgary Public Library said when patrons visit “they’ll find a building that is so much more than a place to borrow books.”

While the building is spectacular, it’s what’s inside the walls – the programming, services and cultural experiences – that will attract Calgarians and visitors alike,” he said in the press release.

The architectural team that designed Canada’s newest central library was led by the Calgary Municipal Land Corporation and included firms, Snøhetta and Dialog.

Opening celebrations kicked off today and will continue over the weekend until November 4.

“This is an important day in Calgary’s history. We are opening the doors to a community hub which will serve multiple generations to come,” said Mayor Naheed Nenshi at the grand opening ceremony. “Starting today, the new Central Library will instantly become a critical, vibrant and accessible space welcoming all Calgarians.