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The Ottawa Public Library has announced its preferred site for a landmark central library — and it’s exactly the same city-owned land at 557 Wellington St. that the library it had named as its “exemplar site” back in July.

Speaking to a packed house during a briefing on Thursday, library chief executive Danielle McDonald said 557 Wellington, a 3.56-acre parcel of land just west of Bronson Avenue received the highest ranking in the analysis of 12 potential sites.

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The new library will be a “modern landmark facility,” said McDonald, and it will serve all of Ottawa and the local community, she said.

Among the reasons for the site’s selection: it’s a four-minute walk to the Pimisi LRT station and a two-minute walk from Bronson. It is near an escarpment, a unique geological feature, and it will have protected views to the north.

As well, it has unobstructed views of the Ottawa River and it’s close to an aqueduct and a heritage pumping station. To the east is the high-density core, and to the west is the LeBreton Flats, which are being redeveloped.