Decision on New Cape Breton Central Library Expected at Special CBRM Meeting

The issue has “dogged” council for at least 15 years, with multiple studies, site proposals and changes in direction along the way. Mayor Clarke, who has been involved with the file since his time as mayor starting in 2012, has made it clear that the community is due for a definitive outcome. After years of reports and consultations, he says what’s needed now is not another study but clear decision-making.

McConnell Library Site Ranked First

A major step forward came earlier this year when a siting analysis, led by Dartmouth-based Fathom Studios (formerly Ekistics Planning and Design), evaluated five potential locations for the new central library.

Based on the steering committee’s scoring:

• Top-ranked site: The current James McConnell Memorial Library location, but with a completely new build on the same site.

• Lowest-ranked site: The former Cape Breton County Courthouse, which had previously been explored as a potential refit option.

This ranking follows years of exploring different concepts, including a waterfront location and a possible renovation of the old courthouse—both of which stalled or were ultimately rejected.

The May council presentation helped refocus attention on the McConnell site as the most viable and strategic option for a modern central library.

Why a New Central Library Matters

The existing McConnell building is about 65 years old and has, as Clarke suggested, “run its course.” Modern libraries are expected to be more than just book-lending spaces. A new central facility could:

• Offer better accessibility for people with mobility challenges.

• Provide technology-rich spaces, including computers, Wi-Fi, digital resources, and makerspaces.

• Create flexible community meeting rooms, quiet study areas and program rooms for all ages.

• Support partnerships with schools, community groups, and local organizations.

For many residents, especially those without reliable internet, a central library is a lifeline to education, employment resources and community connection.

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The Funding Reality: A Tight Formula

This potential announcement also comes at a critical time for the Cape Breton Regional Library (CBRL) system as a whole. Library boards across Nova Scotia have been calling for more sustainable, long-term funding from the province.

A report prepared by regional librarian Lisa Mulak, and presented to council by board vice-chair and District 11 Coun. Darren O’Quinn, breaks down the current funding model:

• Province: 71%

• Municipalities (like CBRM): 26%

• Library boards: 3% (which must be raised through fundraising)

From that formula, CBRL funding shifted as follows:

• 2019:

  • Provincial funding: $1.93 million

  • CBRM contribution: $706,900

  • Library board: $81,800

• Most recent figures:

  • Provincial funding: $2.05 million

  • CBRM contribution: $751,800

  • Library board: $86,800

While these numbers have increased slightly—about six per cent each—costs have risen much faster. Increases in minimum wage, as well as inflation, have outpaced this modest growth, putting pressure on staffing, programming, and operations.

The report stresses that a multi-year, sustainable funding agreement from the province is essential so libraries can plan ahead and continue to provide high-quality, accessible services.

Thriving Branches – and Gaps Still to Fill

Despite the funding challenges, several library branches across the region have seen significant improvements. Branches in:

• Glace Bay

• Ingonish Beach

• Louisbourg

• New Waterford

• Reserve Mines

• North Sydney

have all benefited from upgraded facilities and continue to serve as vibrant community hubs.

At the same time, the report notes that Baddeck and the library board are working toward developing a new branch that better meets local needs.

During the council discussion, District 1 Coun. Gordon MacDonald raised a concern that the Martha Hollett Memorial Library in Sydney Mines was missing from the report. O’Quinn acknowledged the omission and committed to following up with more information.

Former library board chair and District 5 Coun. Eldon MacDonald emphasized that changes to the funding formula are crucial to maintaining the library workforce. Without improvements, he warned, libraries across Nova Scotia could be facing layoffs.

What to Watch for on December 18

The upcoming special council meeting will include an in-camera portion to deal with contractual matters, but Mayor Clarke has indicated that the public can expect a formal public announcement on the library file that same day.

Stakeholders, members of the build committee, and community advocates who have championed a new central library for years are expected to attend. Clarke’s hint—“Expect a very happy crowd, hopefully”—suggests that a positive update may finally be on the horizon.

For residents across CBRM, the decision is about more than bricks and mortar. It’s about:

• Long-term investment in literacy, education and community life

• Ensuring libraries remain welcoming, modern, and adequately funded

• Providing a central space that reflects the needs and aspirations of the whole region

After decades of discussion, studies, and shifting proposals, many are hoping Dec. 18 will mark a turning point—from talking about a new central library to actually building it.