Status of Library Service
Table of Contents
- Your Library in Phase 5
- About proof of vaccination
- Contactless services are available
- We're still here for you, at home
- FAQ
Main Contact
Ask the Library
Email: asklib@halifax.ca
Phone: 902-490-5753
News Media Contact
Kasia Morrison
Communications Officer
Email: morrisk@halifax.ca
Mobile: 902-476-8605
Latest Update: Wednesday, January 26, 2022
Your Library in Phase 5 - Modified
Your Library adjusts in-person services based on the latest public health and safety regulations and recommendations and will continue to offer alternate access to services.
Use of Curbside Pick-up and online services is encouraged at this time.
What has changed?
- Free COVID-19 rapid test kits are available to pick up and take home. Look for your local Library's Weekly Rapid Test Kits Grab & Go Schedule and learn what safety protocols to follow.
- In-person and one-to-one programming has been temporarily paused. These changes will affect previously scheduled events. Please check the status of your event on our What’s On calendar before leaving to attend.
- Rooms are unavailable for bookings, including private rooms, Media Studio at Central Library, and study rooms. If you have a space booked before February 28, staff will be in touch to cancel your booking.
What remains the same?
- Masks are required in indoor spaces. If you need a mask, we have some available at our Info Desks.
- Physical distancing must be maintained while inside the Library. Please keep a minimum of six feet between yourself and others— including Library staff—who are not in your bubble.
- Online events and grab-and-go activities are continuing to be planned. Check our What's On calendar to make plans for at-home entertainment and education.
- To enter our facilities, Proof of Full COVID-19 Vaccination is not required.
- Personal food and drink are not allowed in common spaces. Water refill stations are open.
- Public computers will be out on the floor for your use.
- Technology Help has paused temporarily.
- Children’s play items, such as toys, are not currently available.
- Furniture and computer stations have been moved or blocked off to maintain physical distance.
- Please note: When in-person programming and private room rentals resume, Proof of COVID-19 Vaccination with matching personal ID will be required for anyone age 12 or older to attend Library programs, including adults accompanying youth under 12. Learn more about the Provincial Proof of Vaccination Policy on their site.
If you need help printing your Proof of Vaccination, we can help.
About Proof of Vaccination
When in-person programming and private room bookings resume, please note:
Why is Proof of Vaccination required to attend Library programs and use meeting rooms?
The collective health and safety of our staff and community is our top priority and shared responsibility. We are committed to following the recommendations and requirements issued by Nova Scotia Public Health. Due to the nature of programs offered at the Library and our meeting rooms, Proof of Vaccination is required for attendees, ages 12 and up.
Printing Proof of Vaccination
If you need to print your Proof of Vaccination card, we can help. We will be happy to help you print and cover your card in-branch or via Curbside Pick-up service for free. Just ask us!
Questions About the Provincial Policy
You may have questions about vaccination exemptions, approved vaccine names, testing status vs. vaccination status, and what kinds of vaccine records (e.g. from other provinces, international, etc.) will be acceptable to show as proof. Please review Nova Scotia's Proof of Vaccination Policy, opens a new window for further information. We will be following this policy for our event and program check-ins.
Beyond Our Walls
We continue to strive to be creative in serving all members of our community, including those who are unable to access Library spaces. Borrowing with Curbside Pick-up (e.g. books, instruments, kits, and technology) and printing options remain available for everyone, and we continue to expand our online and virtual offerings.
Library COVID-19 News
Weekly Grab & Go Schedules for Free Rapid Test Kits
Borrowing Information: Updates due to COVID-19
Ask the Library: Phone Service
Contactless Services Are Available
The following service options are still available and encouraged:
- Curbside Pick-up is a contactless pick-up service available at all locations of Halifax Public Libraries. Learn how -to use our Curbside Pick-up before your visit and check your local Library's location page for open hours and more information.
- Ask the Library - Call us at 902-490-5753 with questions you'd usually ask in person, or just to chat. Or, email AskLib@halifax.ca - with your general inquiries, requests for reading recommendations, or research questions.
- Get a digital library card for borrowing from home.
- Online Library events - With internet access, any device, and a click of a link, you can join us online for select Library events. New to Zoom? Read our article on how to connect with Zoom.
Your E-Library is always here for you, at home
Everything you love about our E-Library, such as e-books, streaming services, and online resources, are available to you 24/7, whether our locations are closed or open.
- Discover must-reads and classics: E-Books
- Listen along: Audiobooks
- Find a new story: Staff Picks
- Learn something new, or watch a favourite film: Online Resources
- Explore our blog for creative activities and insights: Blog
- Browse our channel for interactive videos created by staff: hfxpublib YouTube
