Every Library branch has its own special story. Wherever they are, they’re places where neighbours meet, children grow up, and friendships form—and that’s something worth celebrating.
This year, Cole Harbour Public Library commemorated 35 years of these everyday moments with a lively community party as colourful as the decade it launched.
For Branch Services Lead, Maria Bartlett, the celebration was personal.
“I’m born and raised in Cole Harbour," says Maria. “It’s so rewarding to work and live in the community that you’re serving—to see people you went to high school with, now bringing their kids into the Library. It feels full circle.”
Cole Harbour Public Library first opened its doors in 1989 as part of the Cole Harbour Place Recreation Centre on Forest Hills Parkway. The branch has become a bustling space. Today, the 12,000-sq-ft branch includes a bright play zone, dedicated teen space, study rooms and a technology hub—truly the community’s living room.
The Library's 35th anniversary event, "Flashback to 1989," was fun, laid-back, and super retro. Families enjoyed pizza and cotton candy, kids lined up for face painting, and staff (namely, Maria) greeted visitors in a playful unicorn costume.
“It was a celebration of our community,” says Maria. “People walked in, saw the party, and just jumped right in. It was a really vibrant day for everyone.”
Cole Harbour Public Library is located inside Cole Harbour Place recreation centre, which means it is always a buzzing hub of activity. Families stop by after swim lessons, teens gather after school, and newcomers quickly find friends.
Over the years, Maria, who joined the Library as a clerk in 2012, has watched her community grow and has seen the branch offer fun and engaging programming, including Teen Night, local school pop-ups, STEM and art events, and monthly scavenger hunts.
“We’re busier and busier every year,” says Maria. “Library teens are some of the most creative people you’ll meet, and the younger kids absolutely love our scavenger hunts. We do hundreds every month!”
Additionally, being a part of Cole Harbour Place shapes the Library’s uniqueness. Maria’s team schedules activities around swimming lessons, skating sessions, and busy tournaments, such as the annual Joe Lamontagne hockey event.
“Our staff make sure that our space is always welcoming, engaging, and in tune with how our community uses Cole Harbour Place,” says Maria.
Looking ahead, Maria sees even more exciting opportunities. She’s especially enthusiastic about expanding services and strengthening connections with communities in Preston Township and other offices.
“I’m not sure exactly what the next 35 years will look like,” says Maria. “But I bet they’ll be exciting—and busy.”
While change is a guarantee from decade to decade, with a dedicated team remaining a constant throughout the years, Cole Harbour Public Library’s spirit of community, belonging, and celebration remains stronger than ever.
“Our staff are just so warm and welcoming. People are meeting their neighbours here and just enjoying the space—this is a Library that feels loved by the community and by the staff,” says Maria. “When you land here, it feels like coming home.”
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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