'It isn't just a place to find books': New Glasgow's library revitalization continues

Library Revitalization Project expected to be completed by late fall

NEW GLASGOW – The revitalization of the New Glasgow Public Library continues to progress smoothly. The Town of New Glasgow, in partnership with the Pictou-Antigonish Regional Library, has been working on the library revitalization project since June 2025. The project’s goal is to transform the existing library facility into a vibrant Destination Centre, bringing together community partners and providing welcoming, accessible spaces for residents of all ages.

Related New Glasgow Public Library closing for renos, new project underway New Glasgow library settling in at Aberdeen Centre New Glasgow library to get a new updated look and design Planned upgrades include modern meeting rooms, creative and maker spaces, areas for youth and seniors, and programming and collaboration spaces for community groups and non-profit organizations. Mayor Nancy Dicks said once complete, the library’s energy consumption is expected to be reduced by nearly 80 per cent. “It’s moving along really nicely,” Dicks said of the project.

“We’re hoping to have it done by late fall. We’ve been trying to get this done as a town for nearly a decade now, and it’s very nearly here. This revitalization project will ensure the library continues to serve our community for generations to come .”

Dicks said the project costs about $14 million, and is partially funded through the provincial and federal governments. The town has launched a fundraising campaign to support the project. It is led by co-chairs Wade and Emily Sullivan, of Sullivan Fuels.

“The library has always been a special place in our community, and this project will help create a space where people of all ages can gather, learn, and connect,” said Emily. The fundraising campaign has a goal of $4.7 million to help create modern, flexible spaces while supporting major building upgrades that improve accessibility and reduce energy use. “ We’re proud to help lead this campaign and invite others to join us in supporting a space that will benefit our community for many years to come ,” Wade said.

“Being a New Glasgow business, my sister and I felt it was important to help out however we could. There is still a lot of money that needs to be raised, we’re not even halfway there yet. We have ... received a rather generous donation recently, which will be publicly announced at a later point.”

The renovations are currently underway, and are expected to be finished by late fall alongside the gathering of the necessary funds. During the renovations, the library service has temporarily moved to the Aberdeen Business Centre at 610 East River Rd. A digital booklet outlining the project and ways to support the campaign is available on the town’s website.

“It isn’t just a place to find books,” said Wade. “We need our library for non-profit meetings, reliable internet access, and to just be a community space for all. It’s important that we have that in our community, and we should want to make our downtown the best it can possibly be.”