Your Library During the Wildfire Crisis in Nova Scotia

Information on fine free, replacement cards, and digital services

Last updated June 6, 2023

How can your Library be of service?

Taking good care of each other is our shared focus in times of crisis. For a Library, care comes in many shapes and sizes. You can find comfort in reading familiar stories in the books you borrow, cool down and seek refuge from smokey conditions in one of our air-conditioned branches, or ask staff to help you find trusted and valuable resources to answer your most pressing questions.

Most importantly, when it comes to Library materials and services, we want you to borrow freely and be worry-free. We have many Library services that can be of use to you now, or any time.

Borrow freely

Maybe this is the first time you have ever considered what your public library has to offer, or maybe you use the Library all of the time. Regardless, here is some useful information to know.

Fine-free - Halifax Public Libraries is a fine-free Library, opens a new window, and that means you will not be charged for overdue materials.

Replacement card - You can get you back to borrowing as soon as possible and from any of the 13 branches of Halifax Public Libraries, not just the one nearest you. Library staff ask you for some details and have a replacement card sent to you.

Technology access and loans - You can use and check out public computers and devices, opens a new window, such as Chromebooks and iPads. All branches offer free 24/7 WiFi that extends to neighbouring properties as well.

Anywhere E-Library - You can borrow electronic materials, such as e-books, audiobooks, and movies from anywhere. Download the Libby, opens a new window and hoopla, opens a new window apps onto your mobile devices, or follow the links on your desktop computer. If you are not sure how to set up your E-Library access, Library staff can show you.

A personal or family refuge - Visit us. Library branches are equipped with industrial HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems complete with robust filters that are designed to be more powerful than the type of systems in your home. You may still smell smoke and experience discomfort while visiting a Library, but know that the filters in these systems are preventing particles from entering the indoor air.

Special adjustments for Tantallon

You do not need to worry about your Library books during this time. All loans from Tantallon Public Library have been extended well into June. Fees for lost or damaged books in the fire will not be charged. We will do what we can to ensure your available holds are here for you when we reopen.

Is Tantallon Public Library ok?

At this time, there has not been structural damage to the building. The Library remained closed during the local state of Emergency and evacuation, and we are happy to share that we have reopened as of June 6th. We are keen to welcome you back into the branch and fill up our calendar once again with opportunities to come together. We're adding more events as we get back into the swing of things. Explore What's On at Tantallon Public Library.

Whatever your need

Modern public libraries offer many services and we are dedicated to being a place for everyone - and that includes you during your best and worst times.