Novel writer Rachel Reid from Nova Scotia has contributed $300,000 to the Annapolis Valley Regional Library to prevent the closure of five branches. Reid expressed her motivation, stating that as a successful author in Nova Scotia, she believes in using her success for the greater good. Last month, the library made a decision to utilize $80,000 from its reserve funds to keep the five branches operational until September 30.
The library board had requested additional funding from municipalities to keep the branches in Hantsport, Kentville, Lawrencetown, Port Williams, and Middleton open until the end of the 2026-27 fiscal year. While some funding was secured, there was still a shortfall of over $200,000. The generous donation from Rachel Reid ensures that these branches can remain open until the designated fiscal year.
Library CEO Julia Merritt expressed gratitude for Reid’s substantial contribution, emphasizing that the funds would primarily sustain staffing costs at the branches. Reid’s donation is recognized as one of the largest private gifts in the library’s history, as per an official statement released by the library.
Rachel Reid emphasized the importance of properly funding libraries as essential public services. She credited her local library in Bedford, N.S., for fostering her love for reading and inspiring her career as an author. Reid’s donation, however, does not negate the necessity for consistent public funding for libraries in the long term, as highlighted by the library.
In response to the donation, Nova Scotia’s Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism, and Heritage acknowledged the significance of private contributions but emphasized the need for sustainable funding models for public libraries. The department affirmed its commitment to supporting libraries and recognized the importance of community backing for these institutions.
Rachel Reid is set to partake in a public event celebrating libraries and community engagement, details of which will be disclosed soon. The donation has sparked discussions on the importance of government funding for public libraries and the vital role they play in communities.
