Brentwood Public Library, which opened in 1955 near Royal York Road and Bloor Street West, was designed by architect Arthur H Eadie. The Toronto Public Library wanted Brentwood to become more than just a repository for books, and assume the role of a community and cultural hub. Diamond + Schmitt Architects' scheme was selected in a competition, and was influenced by a consensus in the community that the new building should fit in. Neighbourhood residents also felt it was important that the spirit of the original building be preserved in some way; a request to which the architects responded by incorporating the form of the older structure into their new design. This expansion will increase floor space by almost 30%, from 13,615 ft2 to 17,500 ft2. Brentwood's modern rebirth is expected to cost $1.67M and will be completed in 2012.