Ten years ago, we opened Halifax Central Library on the corner of Spring Garden Road and Queen Street, which became a bright and exciting place for learning, connection, and creativity.
But before this beautiful building was here, there was another library (just across the street)—Spring Garden Memorial Library, and it had its own special history.
As we celebrate Halifax Central Library’s 10th anniversary, we’re sharing the stories of staff who lived through the big change. They saw it all, from the first plans to the grand opening, and their memories show how both libraries shaped their lives and our community.
The Heart of Spring Garden Memorial Library
Spring Garden Memorial Library was a favourite spot in downtown Halifax for many years. It was opened in 1951 and designed by architect Leslie R. Fairn in a style called Modern Classical. The building was smaller and cozy, making it easy for staff and visitors to get to know each other.
“At Spring Garden, you sort of had a closer relationship with the customers,” says Susan James, Branch Services Lead at Halifax Central Library. “It was a bit more like our smaller branches, and you’d see the same faces often".
Even though it was loved by many, the building was getting old and reaching the end of it's life. “The building was beloved, but it was falling apart,” says Susan. "The writing was on the wall when it came to the condition of the building and the capacity to serve the community".
“Spring Garden Memorial Public Library had its charm, but it was small and hard to navigate,” says Teresa Wooshue, a Service Advisor at Halifax Central Library. “The children’s department was in the basement, and you had to turn on lights as you went down there. It was definitely unique”
One of those quirks was Geraldine the giraffe, a favourite in the children’s section. “Geraldine’s outfits always brought joy to patrons young and old,” says Teresa. “People would come in just to see her and reminisce about their time at the Library”
Spring Garden Memorial Library may have had its limitations, but it left a lasting mark on the community. Its charm, quirks, and close connections made it more than just a building—it was a treasured piece of Halifax history that laid the foundation for what was to come.
Preparing for the Big Move
Moving from Spring Garden Memorial Library to Halifax Central Library was a significant project. For decades, people talked about building a new central library, but when plans were finally announced, the excitement was real.
In 2011, the groundbreaking ceremony officially started construction for what would become a landmark.
“When I started working at Halifax Public Libraries in 2008, they said a new library was coming, but it had been talked about for decades,” says Christina Covert, Branch Services Lead at Keshen Goodman, who worked as a clerk at Spring Garden Memorial Library. “It didn’t feel real until we saw the groundbreaking”
And it was a true community effort, with plenty of input from Halifax residents.
“We attended meetings where people could voice their thoughts, and you could see how those ideas shaped the final design,” says Susan. “It made us all feel invested in the new space.”
The design was shaped by extensive community feedback. “We attended public and staff meetings, where people could voice their thoughts,” says Teresa. “Ideas were put on big boards, and you could see how they shaped the final design”
Although staff prepared for months for the move, the final day at Spring Garden Memorial Public Library was emotional.
“We made the final announcements, checked out the last customer, and took a group photo at the information desk,” recalls Christina. “It felt like the end of an era and the beginning of something incredible”
Opening Halifax Central Library
Halifax Central Library's grand opening was certainly incredible and a day full of celebration and joy, as staff looked back on their hard work and the journey to this moment. Crowds of people gathered to celebrate the new space, and the excitement was major.
“When I think back on it, the hair stands up on my arms,” says Susan. “Seeing the crowd waiting outside and the joy as they entered—it’s a memory I’ll never forget”
“On the opening day, staff lined the walkways and clapped as the public entered,” says Christina. “It wasn’t planned—it just happened, and then the public started clapping back. It was such an emotional moment.”
Visitors were amazed by the new Library. “People walked in and immediately looked up at the architecture, the stairs, the paintings,” says Teresa. “It was like they couldn’t believe this was a library.”
Halifax Central Library introduced features that only a modern, spacious, multi-level library could: Paul O'Regan Hall, a media studio, a green roof, and vastly improved accessibility (which has actually resulted in achieving Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certified Gold status, opens a new window in 2024).
Beautifully Unique Differences
So what makes both libraries unique?
Staff note that Spring Garden Memorial Library had a cozy, nostalgic feel that staff remember fondly, while Halifax Central Library is modern and full of exciting possibilities.
“It’s night and day—the technology and vibrant spaces at Central are incredible, but Spring Garden [sic] had a unique intimacy,” says Susan. “Both experiences are special in their own way”
“Central feels alive with people, but Spring Garden [sic] had a quieter charm,” says Teresa. “It was a different kind of busy, but the energy here is unmatched”
“The size of Central allows us to do so much more,” says Christina. “But there’s always something nostalgic about remembering where we came from.”
One thing hasn’t changed: the dedication and closeness of the staff.
“The staff [at both libraries], they are a tight family," says Teresa. "We support one another, we help when needed—that bond, I think, is tighter than people realize.”
The Impact of Halifax Central Library
Over the past ten years, Halifax Central Library has redefined what a library can do, thanks to the dedicated staff who make it a welcoming space. It’s welcoming to everyone and offers resources and programs for all kinds of needs.
“We’ve grown so much in what we can offer, from new technologies to spaces that foster creativity,” says Christina. “It’s amazing to see how far we’ve come”
“It’s a place where people feel at home—like the fifth room in their house,” Teresa adds. “I love seeing kids come in and get their first library card or watching visitors’ eyes light up when they realize all the resources we offer for free”
Looking Ahead
As Halifax Central Library celebrates its 10th anniversary, it’s clear how far it’s come. From the cherished memories of Spring Garden Memorial Library to the bold, innovative spaces of Central, the journey has been incredible.
As for what’s next? With its focus on innovation and inclusivity, the possibilities are endless.
"I’ve always felt like Halifax Central Library is the community’s library," says Teresa. "It’s like a living being, with people coming in and breathing life into it.”
Do you have a favourite memory of Halifax Central Library? Share it with us in the comments below!
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