Saskatoon’s new central library won’t be opening in 2026.

A news release from the Saskatoon Public Library says the construction bids that came in last month were higher than the project’s budget, so the tender has been cancelled. Instead, to align construction costs with the project’s budget, a Request for Proposals for Construction Management Services will be issued. It will mean a construction manager working with the design and engineering teams to provide pre-construction services, to identify efficiencies and cost savings through changes to the design.

The extent of changes won’t be known until early next year, so the SPL is not requesting additional borrowing approval from the City at this time. SPL’s Board Chair, Jim Siemens, says it’s is very disappointing, but it’s just a temporary setback. With construction not beginning this fall as scheduled, it is likely the new central library opening will be in 2027.

However, the current building has been sold and has a possession date in December of 2026, so the SPL is preparing to minimize any service disruptions to library service.