Lou Duggan Creative Studio: Learn, Discover, Create, Share

On September 9, 2018, family and friends of the late Lou Duggan gathered in the newly named Lou Duggan Creative Studio at Halifax Central Library. The room was filled with smiles, laughter, and a few tears, as Library staff and family alike reflected on Lou's life and legacy. Lou touched many lives—we're all part of Lou's Crew.

Lou Duggan was an incredible friend to libraries across our city, province, and country. Friendly, enthusiastic, and dedicated, Lou served as the President for The Atlantic Provinces Library Association (APLA); Dalhousie School of Information Management Associated Alumni Association President; and worked with many library association committees.

Halifax Public Libraries has always had a special relationship with Lou. Before he passed away, Lou met often with our Chief Librarian and CEO, Åsa Kachan, to discuss his legacy. Lou wanted—as always—to give back to his community in a way that would inspire minds of all ages, and create new opportunities for creativity to thrive in a Library environment.

"I hope you feel Lou's spirit shining through the windows when you use this space," Åsa Kachan said to the group gathered to celebrate. "Learning takes all forms. Lou knew that, and the activities in 'Lou's Studio' will reflect that every day."

The Library is honoured to have received a memorial endowment from Lou Duggan and the Duggan family to renovate our Central Library creative studio. Formerly known as the 'Creative Lab,' this room on Floor 2 of the Library, overlooking Queen Street and Spring Garden Road, will be transformed in Winter 2018-19 into an updated and modern community makers-space. New, high-end technology; top-of-the-line crafting tools; updated furniture; and kitchen infrastructure will speak to Lou's bright spirit and his passion for libraries. Additionally, an internship program for hands-on support roles in the studio has been funded by the legacy gift.

"We're so thrilled to be able to move Lou's vision forward with these changes to the space. We see people's eyes light up, and the wheels turning in their heads, as soon as they take part in a 'making' activity. To be able to elevate and add to our programming is amazing; the possibilities for creation and connection in the Creative Studio will be limitless," says Alison Froese-Stoddard, Technology Librarian at Halifax Central Library.

We look forward to sharing more updates with you as the Lou Duggan Creative Studio takes shape. Learn. Discover. Create. Share.