Annual Report 2021-22

The Library's Role in Health

Libraries have always answered the call of community, by shaping programs, services, and collections to needs and interests. So, when libraries across Nova Scotia were approached to support public health initiatives throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, it was only natural we stepped up to the challenge.

Over the unpredictable course of the past two years, Halifax Public Libraries locations have served as rapid testing pop-up sites, vaccination clinics, pulse oximeter drop-off locations, and rapid test kit distributors. The Library team has pivoted with each new request, providing a trusted public space for access and support.

"That trust in us, that knowledge that they are welcome to cross the threshold; that they belong here. That encouraged better health behaviour on the part of our communities. That made me really proud. It felt like more people understood the value that we brought, and look to us as that natural, trusted local partner in the delivery of services to the public," says Åsa Kachan.

Read more about the not-so-unlikely tie between public health and libraries.

Filling Gaps and Building Skills

Food brings people together. Whether it's multiple generations preparing a meal, youth learning kitchen skills, or sharing meals with family, neighbours or new friends, food connects and nourishes us all.

In 2021-22, Halifax Public Libraries continued its popular food literacy programs and saw opportunities to address hunger in our community brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Libraries have transformed into multifunctional gathering places, where you can participate in cooking classes, kitchen skills workshops, grab a healthy snack, or take home a guided meal prep kit.

This work is led by our Food Literacy Specialist and registered Dietitian, Emily Mathew. "The Library has really focused on filling gaps in the community, and building skills to teach people to cook for themselves, save money when shopping, and feel proud of the nutritious meals they prepared," she says.

Learn more about this work.

Welcome Home

In 2021, Halifax Public Libraries welcomed a new team member: Amani Saleh, our Newcomer Engagement Specialist.

Amani has an extensive professional history in community work, and has worked with organizations such as Save the Children International, the UN, and WHO in Egypt. She is a newcomer to Canada herself. She arrived in Halifax in August 2019 from her home country of Egypt, to continue pursuing her education as an international student.

Now, Amani's friendly face is here to welcome newcomers who are seeking support with many of the same new experiences, challenges, and questions that she herself once navigated. And, they're learning together, as they go.

Meet Amani.