The library is another example of the controversial reception of Brutalist architecture. On one hand it was named one of Ottawa's three ugliest buildings, on the other hand it won the Award of Merit from the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada six years after its inauguration. The architect distances the building from its curtain wall dominated surroundings by rendering the entire façade in exposed concrete.

In use. The library is planned to move to a new building which is scheduled to be completed in 2024. The long term future of Bemi's building is unclear.