Nova Scotia writer Rachel Reid has made a generous donation of $300,000 to the Annapolis Valley Regional Library to prevent the closure of five branches. Reid expressed her motivation in an interview with CBC News, emphasizing the importance of giving back as a successful author in her community.
Facing financial challenges, the library had decided to use $80,000 from its reserve funds to keep the branches operational until the end of September. However, additional funding was required to sustain operations beyond that timeframe. Reid’s substantial contribution ensures the continued operation of the branches until the end of the 2026-27 fiscal year, as confirmed by library CEO Julia Merritt.
The donation, described as one of the most significant private gifts in the library’s history, will primarily support staffing costs for the branches, according to a news release. Merritt expressed gratitude towards Reid for investing in the libraries and the community they serve.
Reid, known for her popular “Heated Rivalry” series, highlighted the crucial role libraries played in her journey as an author. She stressed the essential nature of libraries as more than just providers of books but also as community hubs that offer valuable services and resources.
While Reid acknowledged that private donations cannot replace sustained government funding for libraries, she hopes her contribution will raise awareness about the funding challenges faced by public libraries. The Annapolis Valley Regional Library and provincial authorities are working towards a sustainable funding model to support library services in the long term.
In response to Reid’s donation, Nova Scotia’s Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism, and Heritage expressed appreciation for the support, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in sustaining library services. The department reaffirmed its commitment to supporting libraries and collaborating with partners to ensure continued access to vibrant public libraries.
Reid is set to participate in a special public event celebrating libraries and community engagement, with further details to be announced soon. Her dedication to supporting local libraries reflects a broader effort to preserve these essential community resources.