Amendments to Libraries Act Introduced

The Provincial Library will continue to support life-long learning with amendments to the Libraries Act introduced today, Nov. 21.

The changes reflect the move of programs supporting public libraries to the Department of Communities, Culture and Heritage announced in January.

"Public libraries are at the heart of strong and vibrant communities and help make life better for families across Nova Scotia. The province wants to support their continued success," said Communities, Culture and Heritage Minister David Wilson. "Nova Scotia's diverse culture and heritage is strengthened by the work of library boards and the Provincial Library as they look for innovative ways to spread a love of reading and learning in our communities."

The amendments reflect that general supervision and administration of the Provincial Library and regional library boards is now the responsibility of the Minister of Communities, Culture and Heritage.

Additional changes include:

• correcting reference to the National Library to reflect it is now Library and Archives Canada
• noting that funding review committees have taken the place of the Provincial Library Council, a change that happened in the 1990s
• eliminating gender-specific language in reference to the provincial librarian

"It is wonderful to see the act updated to more accurately describe the library landscape in Nova Scotia," said Frances Newman, regional librarian with the Annapolis Valley Regional Library. "We look forward to working closely with the new department to continue providing high quality services that respond to the needs of Nova Scotians."

A future comprehensive review of the legislation is being planned that will include consultation with stakeholders.