The Library and Archives Canada (LAC) Preservation Centre in Gatineau, Que. was honoured with the 2018 Outstanding Building of the Year (TOBY) award at a recent ceremony held by BOMA Canada. The facility, which was the only government building in the running this year, was awarded first place in the national BOMA Best – Gold “Corporate Facility” category.

The TOBYs reward building quality and management excellence in Canada. Facilities are selected based on numerous criteria, including energy conservation, environment, sustainability, emergency preparedness, security standards and training of building staff.

“This recognition is an acknowledgement of Library and Archives Canada’s efforts to preserve Canada’s documentary heritage under optimal conditions, while making effective use of the financial resources at its disposal,” said Guy Berthiaume, librarian and archivist of Canada, in a press release.

Accepting the award were employees of LAC and Brookfield Global Integrated Solutions Canada LP, the property manager of the building. The team plans to enter the LAC Preservation Centre in the upcoming international TOBY competition, with winners to be announced at event taking place in June 2019 in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Photo: At centre, surrounded by BOMA award representatives, from left to right: Steve Chartré (Real Property Services, Public Services and Procurement Canada), Jennifer Côté (Real Property, Library and Archives Canada) and Manon Brazeau (Property Manager, Brookfield Global Integrated Solutions Canada LP).