Halifax Central Library first opened its doors 10 years ago, inviting the public in and encouraging community connection and collaboration. Over the last decade, we have shared many incredible stories from Halifax Central Library. From volunteer friendships to teen podcasts, here's a snapshot of just a few of our most memorable community moments.
Do you have a favourite memory at Halifax Central Library? Share with us in the comments below!
Connecting Two Worlds
When Hugh met Mohamad while volunteering with Halifax Central Library’s English Language Learning program, it wasn’t just about teaching and learning English together—it was about building bridges. Both were from different countries and spoke different languages, but they bonded over their shared experiences of fatherhood, family, and daily life in Halifax. Hugh and Mohamad's friendship shows how the Library is a place where genuine connections happen.
Read the full story: A Volunteer’s Thoughts on Volunteering, opens a new window
The Teen Podcast Series
Did you know Halifax Central Library has its own podcast? It Came From the Second Floor has given teen voices a platform to explore, create, and inspire. Filmed in our very own Media Studio, the podcast features film reviews, moments in music history, local events and news, and much more. Over the years, our amazing youth have stepped up to the mic to share their stories—for teens, by teens.
Check out the teen podcasts: It Came From the Second Floor. The Story of Our Teen Podcast., opens a new window
Community Partner: Simon Thibault’s Story
Food writer Simon Thibault brought the taste of storytelling to Halifax Central Library. His cooking journey first began when a favourite restaurant of his closed down, so he turned to Halifax Central Library for new recipes to try. While researching among our stacks, Simon discovered he enjoyed exploring the world through the diverse storytelling in cookbooks. He connected with his Acadian roots and came full circle by releasing his very own cookbook, Pantry and Palate. It’s a reminder that the Library feeds both body and soul.
Hear more about Simon’s story in this video: What tastes like home to you?, opens a new window
Prom Dress Giveaway
Through a partnership with the Glass Slipper Organization, Halifax Central Library hosted a spectacular, glittery, prom dress giveaway. For one day, Paul O'Regan Hall was transformed into a magical dress shop, where all the items were free! By accepting donations from community members who no longer needed their prom dresses, these garments got another chance to shine at new proms.
See more of the dress collection: Glass Slipper Prom Dress Giveaway, opens a new window
The Library Becomes a Muse
If you're on the social media scene, you've likely seen photos like this come across your feed. Local costume designer, Colin J Muise, has been creating unique wearable pieces that represent iconic landmarks around the HRM. When we invited Colin to make a piece for Halifax Central Library, we knew the results would be show-stopping—and we were not wrong! We were also treated with an inside look into Colin's designing and crafting process, taking place in our public makerspace, the Lou Duggan Creative Studio.
Read more about how this incredible costume was made: Becoming Halifax Central Library: A Creative Q&A with Colin J Muise, opens a new window
Add a comment to: Halifax Central Library’s 10th Anniversary: Community Collaborations