Nova Scotia Celebrates First Public Libraries Week

Libraries: Where the Future Begins is the theme of Nova Scotia's first annual Public Library Week from Oct. 15 to Oct. 21. During the week, the province's 76 public libraries are encouraging Nova Scotians to learn more about the wide variety of services they offer.

"From traditional book borrowing to modern Web searching, Nova Scotians can find just about any information they want at their libraries," said Education Minister Jane Purves. "Whether you're five years old and want to read about bugs or 50 years old and want to prepare for retirement, the library has information to help you plan your future."

Last year, Nova Scotia libraries reported 3.4 million visits. A growing number are also making virtual visits to the library because of the rise in available online services.

Anyone with a library card and Internet access can browse online catalogues, find resources in reference databases, including 1,200 magazines, and view digital local records such as newspaper articles and photos of historical sites. Soon, many online library visitors will also be able to put books on hold for pick- up or place orders for delivery by mail.

Public libraries are also actively involved in supporting literacy initiatives. More than 10,000 children participated in this year's Summer Reading Program, which helps kids maintain reading skills over the summer. Adults can also further their literary enjoyment by joining book clubs and attending presentations by authors.

"If knowledge is power, then Nova Scotians have abundant opportunity to mould their future by learning at their public libraries," said Ms. Purves. "During Public Libraries Week, and throughout the year, I encourage all Nova Scotians to take full advantage of the valuable resources and expertise at their local libraries."

For more information on Nova Scotia's libraries, visit the Nova Scotia Provincial Library Web site at www.library.ns.ca/regionals.