Nova Scotia writer Rachel Reid has contributed $300,000 to the Annapolis Valley Regional Library in response to the imminent closure of five branches. Reid, known for her book “Heated Rivalry,” expressed her motivation for the donation, emphasizing the importance of using her success for positive impact within her community.
Following a previous decision to allocate $80,000 from reserve funds to keep the branches operational until September 30, the library sought additional funding to maintain services in Hantsport, Kentville, Lawrencetown, Port Williams, and Middleton through the 2026-27 fiscal year. Despite partial contributions from municipalities, a funding gap of over $200,000 remained.
The library acknowledged Reid’s donation as one of the most substantial private gifts in its history, expressing gratitude for her investment in library services and the local community. The CEO of the Annapolis Valley Regional Library, Julia Merritt, highlighted the significant impact of Reid’s support in sustaining opportunities for regional residents to access reading, learning, and community connections.
Reid emphasized the vital role of libraries as essential services that require adequate funding. Reflecting on her personal experiences with libraries, she credited them for inspiring her journey as an author and emphasized their broader community benefits beyond access to books and resources.
While Reid’s donation is a significant boost, the library emphasized the ongoing necessity for increased stable public funding and strong partnerships to ensure sustained library services. Reid hopes her contribution will raise awareness about the financial challenges faced by public libraries and underscore the importance of government support.
The library plans to collaborate with Reid on a special event celebrating libraries, reading, and community engagement, further demonstrating their commitment to enhancing public library services across the region.