Annual Report 2022-23
A Day in the Life of Halifax Public Libraries
Every day at the Library is unique—shaped by the people who visit, the programs hosted, and staff interactions. We were open for 43,307 hours in 2022-23. For our 2022-23 annual report, we welcome you to one unique, hypothetical day across the Library system. This day encompasses some of the big moments we enjoyed together this past year, alongside the typical and even unsung moments that make up the daily tapestry of library life.
While this day may seem ‘epic’ in and of itself, in the grand scheme of our busy lives, it could also be seen as ‘average.’ Welcome to a place where every act, no matter how simple, reverberates with intention and impact. Welcome to a day in the life of Halifax Public Libraries.
Let's Start Our Day
A Message From Åsa Kachan
Chief Librarian & CEO
“Good morning!” Every morning, when our doors open, we welcome the community to the Library to share a ‘day in the life’ with us. That’s why our format for this year’s report takes you through our 2022-23 year as though it were a single day.
We welcomed this year with open arms, embracing your return to libraries, and witnessing the resilience of our communities emerging from a global pandemic. Through tough times, we upheld the Library as a haven for knowledge, creativity, and boundless opportunity for all. In the following stories, told through the lens of our dedicated staff, you will experience the moments that intertwine to make this past year—and every unique day—remarkable
In the span of a day, the Library clock ticks with quiet flashes of discovery, bold sparks of inspiration, and unexpected plot twists. With over 9,532 programs hosted in 2022-23, 4.64 million items circulated throughout HRM, and 2.96 million web visits, plus 2.02 million catalogue visits , there is truly ‘never a dull moment’ at the Library.
You’ll experience how our Collections team responded to the literary interests of our community, how connections were formed over sharing a cup of tea and treats, the power of play in supporting youth literacy, and the far—reaching creative roots of our Artists & Innovators in Residence—and that’s all before ‘noon’. We will highlight new additions to our collection and services, share the hustle and bustle of our branches, and spotlight the reverberations of local music ringing out from the Library stage.
I hope you enjoy spending this special day with us, and hope there are moments in what we describe that touch your heart, lets you learn more about your community, or perhaps encourages you to think back on your library experiences of the past year. We’re excited to be able to wake up and do it all again with you tomorrow.
A Message From Kim Brooks
Chair, Halifax Regional Library Board
There are key moments in a day that influence its outcome: a great cup of coffee or tea, a positive interaction with someone, or a brief moment of happiness found through art, music, books, food or a television show. The collection of these moments contribute to our wellness and connection to one another.
At Halifax Public Libraries, 2022-23 was filled with many great moments—big and small. Our community continued to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, and returned to the Library in high volumes. We surpassed our pre-COVID-19 numbers in the areas of website visits, electronic circulation, and WiFi connections. I am proud that our community returned so dramatically and shared Library moments together.
We partnered with community groups to host conversations on important topics such as affordable housing and climate action. We responded when the community needed us. When thousands lost power following Hurricane Fiona, libraries quickly responded by opening their doors and offering creative and supportive solutions. These shared moments of compassion and empathy reflect modern library service. You can read more about Halifax Public Libraries’ hurricane response in the annual report.
We also saw small, but profound moments of self-discovery and joy throughout the year. Play Facilitators, a new role at the Library, welcome our youngest community members to Saturday Play at the Library. These early interactions and introductions to books and reading positively, influence and shape children’s futures. A truly special moment is receiving your first library card. I still remember the thrill I felt when I held my first library card - what a key moment! I extend my gratitude to Halifax Public Libraries’ staff for helping our youngest library visitors discover the freedom and excitement of their public library.
The Halifax Regional Library Board is proud to showcase this year’s collection of moments, and the people that made them happen. I am so pleased to be sharing this year’s report and look forward to what’s to come. I invite you to do the same.
The Halifax Regional Library Board, 2022-23
What is your favourite time to visit the Library?
Financials
Download PDF