Let's Talk Libraries | Pictou-Antigonish Regional Library

Library Funding Update Let's Talk Libraries

Last Updated June 24, 2026

As you may have noticed, public libraries across Nova Scotia are facing significant financial pressures. The letter from the Council of Regional Librarians, representing all regional library systems in the province, outlines these challenges clearly and effectively. Read the full letter here [PDF].

The Pictou-Antigonish Regional Library (PARL) is no exception. This year alone, PARL is facing a funding shortfall of $140,000. To avoid further reductions in services, the library has launched a major fundraising campaign for The Library Fund. You can learn more and make a donation here:

Donate to The Library Fund

There has been considerable discussion about library funding in recent months. The following facts help provide important context:

Between 2012 and 2026, provincial core operating funding for libraries increased only twice— once modestly and once more substantially— for a total increase of 15% over 14 years.
During the same period, inflation rose by 38.9%.
Minimum wage increased by 50%.
Overall provincial government spending increased by 110% between 2012 and 2026.
Recognizing growing financial pressures, the province provided several years of temporary “emergency” or “bridge” funding while developing a new library funding strategy. PARL and its partner municipalities requested that this annual $136,000 allocation be incorporated into the library’s core operating budget. That request was not approved.
Library circulation increased by 34% between 2012 and 2026.
Access to technology and digital services has become a core library service. In the past year alone, PARL recorded 33,891 public computer bookings and delivered 1,216 one-on-one technology training sessions.
PARL offered 1,820 programs attended by 17,068 participants.
Since 2012, two new purpose-built, award-winning libraries have opened in Antigonish and Pictou. A fully renovated New Glasgow Library is scheduled to reopen in 2027. Together, these projects represent nearly $30 million in capital investment from all three levels of government, along with more than $7 million in community contributions.

In 2024, the Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage (CCTH), working alongside library boards and municipal representatives, conducted a comprehensive review of library funding. Several options were presented, including the clear conclusion that maintaining the status quo was not viable, as inflation and rising operating costs would effectively reduce library budgets. A recommendation was submitted as part of the government's 2025-26 budget process. No funding increase was provided, and no explanation was given.

PARL believes the provincial government has an opportunity to make a meaningful difference for Nova Scotians through a relatively modest increase in library funding. Libraries continue to play a vital role in literacy, lifelong learning, digital inclusion, community connection, and access to information. PARL stands ready to support government priorities and help citizens navigate the challenges and uncertainties facing our communities today.

How you can help:

Contact your local MLA.

Hon. Tim Houston, Premier and MLA for Pictou East
2042-2 Queen Street, Westville, NS, B0K 2A0
Phone: 902-695-3582 | E-mail: pictoueastamanda@gmail.com

Hon. Michelle Thompson, Minister and MLA for Antigonish
325 Main St., Suite 222, Antigonish, NS B2G 2C3
Phone: 902-863-4266 | E-mail: michellethompsonmla@gmail.com

Danny MacGillivray, MLA for Pictou Centre
342 Stewart St, New Glasgow, NS B2H 2R7
Phone: 902-752-3646 | E-mail: dannymla@bellaliant.com

Hon. Marco MacLeod, Minister and MLA for Pictou West
37 Water Street, Pictou, NS B0K 1H0
Phone: 902-485-8958 | E-mail: info@marcomacleod.com