Houston government failing communities, forcing libraries to close

HALIFAX – Today, NDP Communities, Culture, Tourism, and Heritage Critic Susan Leblanc has written to the Premier calling on the Houston government to better fund libraries and prevent upcoming closures. This week the Annapolis Valley Regional Library announced they are being forced to close five of their 11 libraries, due to chronic under-funding.

“The Houston government has underfunded libraries for years, ignoring their desperate calls for help as costs have grown and funding hasn’t kept up,” said Leblanc. “People across the province are angry and upset, and are afraid that the closure of these five libraries are just the beginning. They’re worried more rural community libraries across the province will be forced to close or cut back on services because of this government’s short sighted and out-of-touch spending decisions.”

Libraries across the province have been sounding the alarm, but their calls to update funding options have been brushed off by the Houston government.

The issue extends beyond the Annapolis Valley. Libraries in other parts of the province have also had to cut staff, scale-back the hours they are open and reduce services as they grapple with financial shortfalls.

“Communities understand what this government is ignoring: libraries are more than just books, they are essential public spaces,” said Leblanc. “They’re a community gathering place, a resource for families and newcomers, and they provide good jobs in rural communities. They’ve been asked to do more with less for years and they’ve gone above and beyond, waiting for the Houston government to support them. They can’t wait any longer. The provincial government must step in and make sure libraries can stay open.”

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