Struggling N.S. libraries say their financial books need a $1.6M emergency top-up
Nova Scotia’s libraries are in need of urgent financial assistance to prevent a reduction in services, staff, hours of operation, and collections. The nine regional library boards, including the Pictou-Antigonish Regional Library led by chief librarian Eric Stackhouse, have requested $1.6 million in emergency funding from the province to stabilize the public library system.
In a letter written by Stackhouse on behalf of all regional library boards, it was highlighted that they are facing end-of-year deficits due to the increase in the minimum wage and other rising costs. The letter also urged the Nova Scotia government to revise its five-year funding formula, as the current funding level of $16.4 million for the 2025-26 fiscal year is not sufficient to support the needs of the libraries.
Stackhouse emphasized the importance of adequate funding for libraries, stating that it directly impacts access to resources such as computers and reading materials. He acknowledged the financial challenges faced by the government but stressed that libraries play a crucial role, especially during uncertain times when people rely on them for various services.
Julia Merritt, CEO of the Annapolis Valley Regional Library, shared that some libraries in her region have already made cuts to services and staff to manage their budget constraints. This has resulted in a significant loss for rural communities that rely on libraries for educational programs, government services, food pantries, and community spaces.
Merritt mentioned that program offerings have been reduced by 50 percent since 2024, and staff numbers have decreased by five employees over the past two years. With 50 permanent staff members currently in place, she expressed the need for additional funding to stabilize the system in the short term while exploring long-term solutions.
The Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism, and Heritage did not provide an interview regarding the funding request, but director of communications, Rob Maguire, stated that the request is under consideration. The funding formula for libraries is reviewed every five years, with the last increase in 2019-24 marking the first budget increase since 2009. However, Stackhouse emphasized the need for a revised formula in the 2025-30 cycle to cover rising operational costs.
The current funding structure sees libraries receiving 71 percent of their funding from the provincial government, 26 percent from municipalities, and the remaining three percent through fundraising efforts. Libraries in the Halifax Regional Municipality are primarily funded by the municipality.
Overall, the plea for emergency funding from Nova Scotia’s libraries underscores the vital role they play in communities and the importance of ensuring they are adequately resourced to continue serving the public effectively.
