The Cambridge Idea Exchange is officially rebranded as the Cambridge Public Library (CPL) to better inform the public of what it is they do.
In meetings throughout the last year, the board of directors for the Cambridge library has noted that the name "Idea Exchange" has created barriers and possibly prevented residents from using their services.
“As I returned to the area and began my new role with Idea Exchange, I spent much of my time building relationships with community members, learning about their connection with our organization,” said Chrissy Hodgins, CEO of the Cambridge Public Library, in a press release.
“During these conversations and throughout our strategic plan process, I began to notice that people were less certain about what the public library was about and it became clear that returning to a name that included “public library” was the right choice for our community.”
According to a press release, during the strategic planning process in 2023, staff and the public repeatedly identified that the Idea Exchange name created barriers to access for residents and those new to Cambridge.
Acting on this feedback, the board members unanimously voted to change the name. Now the Cambridge library system falls in line with others in the region such as the Kitchener Public Library and Waterloo Public Library.
“It is the board’s hope that this change will restore the clarity, trust, and sense of purpose of the public library,” said Thomas Sandor, chair of the CPL board in the release. “And that the change will ensure everyone knows exactly what the library is about and why it is so important to our community. Cambridge Public Library will continue to bring the future to Cambridge.”
While a dollar amount for the change is not yet known, communications for the library Jennifer Tupling confirmed in an email to CambridgeToday that the cost has been included in all upcoming projects and budgets.
"The rebranding, as part of our Strategic Plan, is central to all our focused work in the coming months, meaning this will not affect service levels or collection materials," said Tupling.
The last rebrand came 10 years ago when the Cambridge Libraries and Galleries moved to the Idea Exchange to seem more contemporary.
Since 2014, Idea Exchange experienced expansion of services, information and technology, collections, and the launch of a new digital library location, the Old Post Office.
"Today’s libraries are recognized as vibrant community hubs with access to information, books and a diversity of other things you want to borrow, cutting-edge technologies, amazing programs for all ages, and most importantly, a safe, welcoming space for all," said the library on its website.
"Changing the name never changed our legacy of bringing exceptional library service to our community. Modern public libraries are as innovative, forward-thinking, and community-focused as we have always been. "
The community will notice changes as the library completes the name change process and signage and materials are rebranded.
There is no word yet on a budget or estimated cost for the change.
The change will be completed ahead of the opening of its sixth location at the new Southeast Cambridge Recreation and Library Complex, expected to be completed in 2026.
