Things to See and Do

When you step into the natural light-filled atrium of the Central Library, prepare to feel inspired and welcomed into one of the city’s most bustling community hubs. Designed by the local architectural firm Fowler Bauld & Mitchell in partnership with Schmidt Hammer Lassen of Denmark, the design—which resembles a stack of books—has been recognized internationally for its unique form and functionality.   

Head up the criss-cross stairway to explore all five stories of the building (there are also elevators) and dive into the library’s extensive catalogue. Visitors will find community-access computers, a local history room, displays celebrating African Nova Scotian, Indigenous, and Acadian/Francophone heritage and culture, as well as artwork by local artists. Visitors with young children can visit the Lindsay Children’s Room, a preschool play area with books, toys, and more geared toward young library guests. 

There are lots of chairs, study pods, and nooks tucked throughout the floors, including a space known as the Halifax Living Room, which overlooks Spring Garden Road and offers city views of attractions like the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site. Find a spot and curl up while you enjoy the building’s extensive free Wi-Fi or page through your next favourite book. You can even grab a cup of tea and a sweet treat from one of the two cafés on site—one on the ground level and the other on the top level. 

Depending on the day, check out the programming for the Paul O’Regan Hall. Located on the ground floor, the 300-seat auditorium and performance venue has hosted everything from free lunchtime concerts with Symphony Nova Scotia, to independent film screenings, lectures and talks on a variety of subjects, and more.  

Planning Your Visit

How to get there

• Accessible by foot, public transport, taxi, and rideshare, or your own vehicle. There is limited underground parking available for a fee, as well as nearby street parking. 

Experiences and tours

• Admission to the library is free. Check the website for daily operating hours. 
• You can book a free, private tour by contacting the library directly. 
• Check the events schedule on the library’s website to see what’s on the go the day you plan to visit. 
• Head to The Sunroom on the top floor for rotating art exhibits throughout the year. 
• Residents of Nova Scotia can sign up for a library card for free. Visitors can browse the collection and enjoy items on site. 

Insider Tips

Grab your favourite book or magazine and head to the rooftop patio during the warmer months. You can take in the views of the city and enjoy a little moment of quiet amid the hustle and bustle of Spring Garden Road.  

After recharging at the library, step onto Spring Garden Road to enjoy its mix of shops and restaurants. For more to discover, the Halifax Public Gardens are just a short seven-minute walk away.