News release
For immediate release April 22, 2009

Library Value Calculator
Calculator determines the value of the library’s services you use

The average tax cost for public library services in HRM is $4.97 a month, per household. But what is the value of the library service you receive in return?

The library value calculator is a tool for residents to estimate the services they use monthly at the library and calculate how much money they are saving by using the library’s free services over paying for the same services elsewhere. For example, the cost of one movie is calculated at $4.99 per month, based on average rental fees at local rental outlets. Other cost estimates include $5.00 per magazine and $6.00 per children’s program.

“Almost everyone knows you can borrow books for free at the library, but you can take part in lots of other activities there too. Tax money supports these services, but everyone who uses the library finds they save more money there than they’ve spent,” said Francisca Goldsmith, director of branch services for Halifax Public Libraries.

The library’s value calculator can be found on the library’s webpage at halifaxpubliclibraries.ca. Library users are encouraged to try it out and send their comments from the comments form found on the same page.

Everyone in HRM can get a library card for free, good for borrowing books, DVDs, using computers and more. The library also offers free events such as author readings and musical performances as well as a number of programs for children like puppet shows, story time and craft making.
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Halifax Public Libraries is the life-long learning centre of the community and the place people turn to for the discovery of ideas, the joy of reading and the power of information.

Contact: Marlo MacKay
Communications Officer
Halifax Public Libraries
490-5852
mackaym@halifaxpubliclibraries.ca