At Halifax North Memorial Public Library, civic engagement is an essential part of what makes the branch so special. For decades, the branch has been a gathering place where people come together to learn, debate, and prepare for the moments that shape our shared future. From community feedback forums and staff answering questions at the desk, to larger panels and partnerships, Halifax North has built a reputation as a place where democracy is close to home.
During an election, that commitment shows up in big and small ways—from staff conversations at the front desk and resource displays that answer common questions, to a welcoming, balanced approach that makes democratic participation feel accessible to everyone.
With that everyday service mindset, Know Your Vote—a purpose-driven project aimed at providing easy-to-navigate election information to community members who live in the electoral districts served by library branches—was born in 2020. And during the 2025 federal, municipal, and provincial elections, the Library worked to ensure that anyone with a question—big or small—could find the information they needed quickly, clearly, and without barriers.
“Halifax North has always been a place where people come to meet and raise awareness,” says Halifax North Memorial Public Library Branch Manager, Randolph White. “If something matters to the neighbourhood, this is where the conversation starts.”
The North End’s cultural and intergenerational mix—newcomers, teens, families, and long-time residents—creates a natural setting for dialogue and discovery, especially around election time. In the lead-up to voting days, Halifax North Memorial Library became a go-to stop for practical questions, like “What ID do I bring?” or “Where is my polling place?” and deeper conversations about why showing up matters.
Online, Library users could access Know Your Vote’s reliable, nonpartisan resources from one friendly starting point—covering key dates, what changes to expect during the election, accessibility options, registration, and how to find polling places. Regionally, in all branches, that same support came to life through quick chats at the desk, election-season info tables, and reading recommendations that helped people explore issues from multiple perspectives—helping them feel prepared to make their own choice.
“Know Your Vote gives us a way to answer questions in a supportive, neutral space,” says Regional Programming Lead Kassondra Torraville. “Sometimes it’s as simple as helping someone find out how and when to vote. Staff also create book displays that highlight local issues and offer more information. We’re focused on empowering each person to make their own, informed choice.”
At Halifax North Memorial Public Library, “it sparked the idea of ‘How do I get engaged with the voting process? Where do I go? Am I allowed to go vote at this poll?’" says Randolph. “Once we walked through it, they felt even more prepared to cast their vote.”
As we look ahead to upcoming elections, Know Your Vote and our many branches, continue to welcome conversations that move people from curiosity to confidence.
This story was originally shared as part of Halifax Public Libraries' 2024-25 Annual Report. Read the full report and explore more, here.
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