Nova Scotia writer Rachel Reid has made a generous donation of $300,000 to the Annapolis Valley Regional Library after learning that five branches were at risk of permanent closure. Reid expressed her motivation for the donation, emphasizing the importance of using success for positive impact within the community.
Previously, the Annapolis Valley Regional Library had allocated $80,000 from its reserve funds to keep the five branches operational until the end of September. However, additional funding was needed to sustain the libraries in Hantsport, Kentville, Lawrencetown, Port Williams, and Middleton beyond that point.
In a recent interview with Radio-Canada, the library’s CEO, Julia Merritt, acknowledged the significance of Reid’s contribution, ensuring that the branches can now remain open until the end of the 2026-27 fiscal year. Merritt highlighted the crucial role of the donation in supporting staffing costs for the branches and expressed gratitude for Reid’s commitment to investing in libraries and the community they serve.
Reid, known for her popular “Heated Rivalry” series, emphasized the vital role libraries played in her journey to becoming a successful author. She stressed the essential nature of libraries as a fundamental community service that requires adequate funding for sustainability.
Although Reid’s donation will have a positive impact, the library emphasized the ongoing need for increased stable public funding and strong partnerships to ensure long-term library services. Reid hopes that her contribution will raise awareness about funding challenges faced by public libraries and encourage others to support these vital community resources.
Addressing the funding model for libraries, Merritt highlighted the need for changes to ensure the sustainability of Nova Scotia’s public libraries. The library remains dedicated to collaborating with the government to ensure continued access to robust public library services across the region.
In response to Reid’s donation, Nova Scotia’s Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism, and Heritage acknowledged the importance of community support for libraries. The department emphasized its commitment to providing annual operating support to public libraries and working towards a sustainable operating model in collaboration with library boards and municipal partners.
Reid is set to participate in a special public event celebrating libraries and community engagement in the upcoming month. Further details about the event will be announced soon, showcasing the importance of continued support for public libraries in Nova Scotia.
