Library Fund Launched to Support Public Library Services

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 23, 2026

Pictou-Antigonish Regional Library Launches The Library Fund to Support the Future of Public Library Services

(Pictou and Antigonish Counties) To help ensure public library services continue to thrive in our communities, the Pictou-Antigonish Regional Library is launching a new fundraising initiative: The Library Fund.

Public libraries are busier than ever. As costs continue to rise and expectations for library services, programs, and resources grow, funding pressures are increasing. However, core provincial government funding for public libraries has remained unchanged since 2020. For the 2026–2027 fiscal year alone, the regional library faces a funding gap of $140,000.

"We heard loud and clear during our public awareness campaign last December that our communities value their public libraries," said Cllr. Nicole LeBlanc, Chair of the regional library's Marketing and Communications Committee. "But to continue providing the materials, services, programs, and hours that library users rely on, we need community support."

To address this challenge, the library has launched The Library Fund with a goal of raising $300,000 by the end of the current fiscal year on March 31. Meeting this goal will not only close the current funding gap but also allow the regional library to make an initial $160,000 investment in its long-term sustainability.

Over time, growing this fund will create a source of investment income that can help safeguard and strengthen free public library services, available to all, for future generations.

Library users, supporters, businesses, and community partners are invited to contribute. Donations can be made at any library branch through newly installed Donation Stations or online at www.parl.ns.ca. Supporters can also participate in fundraising raffles and auctions organized by their local library branch. Those interested in making a larger contribution, including gifts of publicly traded securities or other forms of planned giving, are encouraged to contact the library at 1-888-779-7761.

Together, we can ensure that public libraries remain vibrant, accessible, and sustainable community spaces for years to come.

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For further information, please contact Eric Stackhouse at (902) 331-0402 or estackhouse@parl.ns.ca; Kristel Fleuren-Hunter at (902) 971-0979 or kfhunter@parl.ns.ca.