Reviews of Halifax Central Library (Library)

Mario (Ranjit)

A was a very good experience. Knowledge, friendly, and helpful staff. Very thoughtfully laid out plan. Lots of computers to use, all covid19 friendly placements.

Adel Z

Great new design for the city. Nice atmosphere inside and a cafe with a view.

Gregory Caines

Five stars to the Halifax Central Library on Spring Garden road I love this place so much not only is it shaped like a stack of books you can leave there with a stock of books. There is nothing but love community resources and did I say love

Aly Mawji

Stunning building with tons of places to read and work. Great selection of magazines and reliable internet. They also host tons of free events. Kids area is basically one whole floor and includes a Lego table, Xbox stations and play area. The coffee shop is great too. The only downside is too many smelly vagrants who are using the building as a homeless shelter. It's a real shame and mars what would otherwise be a stunning example of what good municipal government can achieve for its citizens. I used to enjoy working from here but now I kind of avoid it.

Robert Kenny

Not really so much a library, I actually heard a parent call it the fun and games center. What ever it is, it's pretty different but i would not want to try and get some quite time there. Fun place to grab a coffee and people watch.

Aaron K

Definitely the best library in Halifax. It’s modern and the architecture is awesome. This whole area in general is one of my favourite places in Halifax. The library is at the centre of this. Occasionally there will be very specific books that are unavailable for long periods of time, and homeless people tend to lounge but those are some of the things you have to deal with in any decently sized city. I have also attended a few live events in their auditorium which are FREE! I’ve seen everything from opera to poetry jams being held there. It’s a great thing to do for people of all ages.

Monica Romo

Perfect place to read with an spectacular view of the city.

Neil Frelick

Architecturally beautiful, full of natural light and a quiet atmosphere with massive selection, these features combine to make this one of the best, most peaceful places to go in Halifax for reading, contemplating, or checking your email!

Dean Zwicker

The old library was a cornerstone of downtown Halifax, well this new modern one takes it to a whole other level of being a cornerstone of downtown Halifax and offering modern global Library services.

John Aves

Really cool building, they have a café at the top with a small roof terrace looking out over Halifax harbour towards Dartmouth. Lovely place to go and chill with a brew.

Amelia Coombes

Going above and beyond for everyone. friendly and caring staff. Great resources and programs. Clean and orderly.

carol moreira

What an uplifting and beautiful public space! I loved my visit--the galleries were bright and airy even on a gloomy day. And I was thrilled to find my YA fantasy, Membrane, displayed in the teen section!

Michael Lambert

There is no possible way to maintain the pretense that this building is actually a library. Call it a "community center," a "gathering place," or whatever you like. Currently, I am at one of the computer terminals in the Halifax Central Library on the main floor; there is a full orchestra in the performance space behind me warming up for a concert; people are streaming in; the performance space is open to the entire first floor (there are no doors); and I have no doubt that the music can be heard on the 4th floor due to the "open concept" design with nothing to absorb ambient sound (I've heard perfectly well other performances in the same space while up there trying to study). The place is often dirty, noisy, and full of ambling tourists. There are laughably few actual books. But there are plenty of trendy "media rooms," graphic novels, random TV screens, and cafe seats. Anyone who actually might want to try to "study" (which of course usually means getting on facebook or YouTube) seems able to concentrate only by wearing headphones. Now, just to be clear: I wouldn't be so critical in my review if they'd just called this place a "community center." It's just not a library. And to call it one is to act as if the role of a library in the community had been filled; my point is that it has not.

Scott Wang

Cannot love this place more. Modern yet quite library. Adequate desks with electrical outlets. Sufficient books of all topics. Easy to check in and check out by yourself.

Nicole Slaw

This is hands down one of the coolest libraries I've EVER been to. I spent the better part of 2 days here and enjoyed every minute of it. The event downstairs was flamenco dancing, on a SUNDAY (here in the States our libraries are closed on Sundays). Lovely people, coffee shop, and overall a mind mindbogglingly beautiful place. Highly recommended.

Skulls

Great library! Love it here, especially those little booths that you can sit in and work with access to plugs and lights and such. And the whole place just looks nice in general =]

M

I can't rave about this library enough! It's the best one in HRM with the most convenient hours. I am very thankful they're open on Sundays. I do look forward to the cafe coming back. It is unfortunate that they say you can't bring food/drink in here now. I hope that will change in the future. I used to love coming to the library to work and eat lunch.

Christian Stalley

The new Halifax Central Library is a worthy and exciting addition to our city. It expands the concept of what a library can be, turning it into a centre of reading, research, and living. Architecturally stunning, and with an exciting stream of free activities for all tastes, this is truly a cultural hub for the whole city.

Rebecca

This library is an architectural wonder. Best place in the city to read books while enjoying a spectacular view of Halifax! I love going up to the 4th floor and looking down at the staircases and holds section to notice the cool design.

Michelle Greene

Love it. This library is so modern and has so much seating space. It's comfortable and well lit and equipped with state of the art technology for all library functions.

Marc LeLacheur

Amazing building, cool design, though maybe not quiet like a traditional library, but I still enjoy spending my time here. The meeting rooms are nice if you can get one. The stage-hall is great for presentations.

Sidney Hamilton

Although it is a beautiful location, it's always loud and they're is always drilling and other construction work going on lately. Never a place to sit and work no matter what time of day you get there. Huge amounts of space for books but barely any books to fill it. If you're looking for an actual library, go elsewhere in the city.

Krista Whitehouse

Love this library and all the Halifax libraries in general. This one is an accomplishment with lots of computers to use. Staff is ok to work with but I prefer the helpful staff at the smaller libraries in the city. The big frustration and disappointment for me is the architecture of the building. I know it is beautiful to have all those zig-zaggy stairs and and pedways to the top floors, but really, it's just a pain to navigate. I'd prefer a straight walk up instead of having to go through a maze to get to the higher floors. I guess James Dashner designed this building.

Dimitry Kochenov

The library is absolutely wonderful: a great place to read and have some work done. Spectacularly friendly stuff and a nice café on top.

Kitty K.

I like the building design and sunshine lit up the whole place. I always sit at the couch area and read books with gorgeous view out there.

Scott Whitehouse

Beautiful library with excellent service and incredible views. Well designed work spaces for both individuals and groups. There are also public computers to use, and cafes upstairs and down. You have to check this place out!

Cody Barrett

So much more then just a library, even if you don't want to read a book, just drop in to check out the design of the building!

Chantelle Laliberte

Awesome view! Loved the Light therapy station and the cafe! Check out the 5th floor view for sure

Māḷagi

An absolute marvelous architecture and place of books. The library has everything one looks for from plenty of different style reading places to study in quiet or in groups. Self checking and plenty of friendly staff to help you for anything you need. You can browse and scan/take print outs inside the library.

Moath Basil

Impressive landmark of Halifax. A place to get away, read, study and enjoy some art too. Parking might not be easy around the facility: there is a parking underneath but for limited time and space, if available. Recommended place for children.

Barrieadventuregirl

While on vacay I need a place to chill and catch up on my emails and text. What a glorious place to have a beverage on the roof top of the library in Halifax and a view of the city. On a raining day go to the fifth floor to chilax in doors.

Paul Nazareth

One of Canada’s best I’m a library lover, visited hundreds across Canada and the USA, this still fairly new build has won awards for design and environmental innovation. So many awesome spaces in this building, if you come, make time to explore. Top level is breathtaking with the views and outdoor patio?! Insanely awesome. Best bonus, coffee shop “Pavia” on main floor and top floor has fabulous espresso and healthy food. Explore, enjoy.

Katie T

The coolest library I've ever been to!! It's huge with so many places to sit and read/work. The view is amazing and there's a neat espresso bar on the top floor. The shelves could definitely use more books though!

Dàwéi Hēiér

Very cool library to hangout with family . I’m jealous of this library as we don’t have something this nice in Quebec !

Stamatia Baker

A beautiful space with amazing views of the city. Wish Fredericton's library was this cool!

Thien Tran

Big and spacious place. Coffee shop at 1st and 4th floor. Great selection of books. Nice place to study and even hang out. Right in the heart of downtown.

Louise Tattersall

I'm disappointed in myself that this was the only picture I took! I suppose I'll just have to go back to take more as this library is breathtaking. The architecture is beautiful and there is so much to see and do inside. There is a cafe, computers, work stations, kids area and of course, lots and lots of material to browse. Lovely ambiance and the staff were SO friendly and helpful.

Jeff Sieling

Such a beautiful building, great place to sit and read, study or even sit enjoy the view and sip a warm drink- outdoor patio has a beautiful over the city to the harbor view!

Michael Erwin

When I heard about the new library, I was skeptical. But I love spending time here. It has a great children's area, and allows food and drink everywhere in the building. The architecture is award winning, and beautiful. There are plenty of entertaining, free events. I'm often pleasantly surprised with an enjoyable event when I go.

Jeremy O

New library is amazing. It's beautiful both inside and out. Rooftop patio provides great views of Halifax and the harbour. Great spot to grab a coffee, a book and relax.

Henry

I think this is the best place to visit in Halifax. The building is very modernized, the design is totally up to date. The entire space in the central library makes me feel cozy and relaxed. You can grab a nice coffee on the right hand side of the entry also on the top level of the building. You can recharge your phone here, you can play music instruments on the 2nd floor, you can borrow tons of books, movies here. And you can play TV games, use computer here. Or just sit on the couch watching news. Many things to do, must go place.

DP Steyn

What can I say, this is a stunning library. One feels proud as a Haligonian to have this magnificent structure in our city. There are beautiful views to be had, beautiful architecture waiting around every corner and all sorts of nooks and crannies to explore. There are coffee shops, places to hang out, all sorts of computers. Basically everything you would want in your dream library. The only downside is that parking can be difficult and/or expensive, especially during busy times. Signing up for a library card was a super simple and smooth process and the people who work there are a pleasure to interact with. I will definitely be coming here again and again.

Kaylin Bowman

Hopefully sooner rather then later as Covid cases have been very low, Halifax library can bring back the children's toys and video games as right now theres not much for a child to do unless they know how to read. Obviously Covid is out of our control however if your bringing children to the library we wanted to share our recent experience so everyone's expectations are met.

Lucky Luna

Super nice staff. 5 large floors. Lots of washrooms. Very easy to get a library card. Whole floor for kids

Jacqui JnBaptiste

Very modern and has a good collection of books. Downside is that it's more of a recreational center , with an atrium. It is SO LOUD. Can't get any reading done peacefully. Even the quiet sections has so much traffic because people seem to be constantly on tours or something. Barely anyone has respect for it being a library and speak loudly throughout. You literally need to be locked in a room by yourself or sit on the roof if you want quiet.

BY U

Very clean and the patio is a good place to see the city.

Abhishek Kumar Swain

A super pretty girl spends her time here... It's because of her I come to library and end up studying

Rajat Malik

Beautiful library in the heart of the city, really like the layout of the building. Enjoy every time I go there

Brian Fitzpatrick

This is an amazing building where you could spend the day with kids. Free wifi, charging and work stations. A whole floor for kids with a play area and video games. There's a cafe on the top floor with outdoor seating.

Chris Maxwell

The new library is very light and airy, and very pleasant experience. Checking it out on a Sunday afternoon to do some school work while waiting for someone downtown. On the one hand it is great to see it so popular, but within 1/2 hour of opening it is hard to find a quiet area seat.

LeighAnne Kenney

It is a great place to read, relax or go on the computer. There are literacy programs for thosenwho want to upgrade their skills, get a GED or prepare for college. Central is an architectural marvel.

RickMyTrainer

This is a unique building, a unique library and a unique feather in Halifax's cap. We are incredibly lucky to have this public space. It's so beautifully thought out as a public space, both inside and out, as well as up on the roof. Great place for our citizens to come together!

Shafkat Rahman

This library is a testament to Scandinavian influence in Nova Scotia's architecture. Progressive/modern design of the building and large open interiors calls for a great space to move through. Relaxing atmosphere to get your work done.

Colin Heighton

I visit this library every time I come to Halifax. Beautiful architecture, access to a vast array of media (digital and print) and an rooftop reading area accompanied by a full service cafe just inside the doors on the top floor.

Blair Sanderson

This a great addition to Halifax's downtown. And the books aren't even the main attraction. My kids play iPads and video games and eat treats at the cafe upstairs with the beautiful view and then run around on the stage. I do get books sometimes too so very well rounded.

Shahzad Parwaiz

All facilities are available large selection of books, computers, coffee sitting and study area everything is perfect

Family Gifts

A wonderful place that has been beautifully woven into our lives. A place to relax, to discover, to meet new people, to dream. The childrens programs are so amazing here. Having an entire wing for children and various hangout spots within that is amazing. The staff do a great job to come by every so often and help keep it tidy. Don't forget about the rooftop café giving unique views of Halifax.

Rae Boudreau

amazing staff helping to keep everyone safe during Covid-19 and working very hard. Saw a staff ask someone to adjust there mask who had it under the nose- which I am very pleased with. They also have a great selection of books and computers to use programs all kinds of great stuff! shame that the city wont use the empty library space across the street as a homeless shelter but that's nothing to do with this awesome library.

Katie Enman

The perfect destination for studying, reading, entertaining kids, or just to browse and relax! So much to see and do and the cafe on the main level has a great selection of coffees and pastries. The children's area is amazing and complete with lots for all ages to enjoy. The parking garage is somewhat limited but there was plenty of street parking around and also on lots of bus routes.

Kasia GT

most beautiful library ive ever been in. very modern and clean, really cool architecture, and lots of windows- which makes a really positive environment for studying with all the sunshine and view of the city! ive never struggled to find a place to sit as well, tons of cozy couches and also tables with desks. the employees here are so lovely and helpful. bathrooms are all kept really clean. one downside is you cant consume any food or drink in here, but that’s due to covid/an understandable thing for a library to request anyways.

Mila McKay

The Halifax central library is a fantastic public resource and a comfort to the eyes. the architecture is solid and beautiful, the interior is spacious yet full of resources. And the small cafe has some great snacks and drinks. The atmosphere is that of any library, sometimes a bit loud with learning kids, always busy with interested minds. I love it!

Saurabh Mehta

Definitely an amazing place to spend some time in this amazing architecture. It has amazing collection of books with very humble staff, You can have computer and prints, even kid games or teens games like PlayStation.

Leslie L

The most beautiful library I’ve been to. Super modern and has an outdoor rooftop patio

Mary-Jane Wells

Love the library and having Pavia there is great! Such a cool unique place in the heart of our city! :)

Kolton Brimicombe

A beautiful place to study, read, it simply relax. Definitely kid friendly with an entire floor dedicated to them. The architecture is another strong point to this building if you enjoy a newer modern look.

Adam Bland

My wife and I visited Halifax for several days and even though a library might seem like an odd tourist destination it's worth checking out. The library itself is a beautiful building and a great addition to the Halifax skyline. Also be sure to enjoy the coffee and rooftop view.

J. Ross Mayhew

WORLD CLASS!! The very open design gives one a very relaxed feeling: exceptional interior architecture and a HUGE improvement from the rather "stuffy", old-school library feel of its predecessor across the street. VERY child-friendly: a whole floor just for young people even! Many nooks and crannies to hide away in, as every library should have, and computers all over the place.... and some books too, lol. An acoustically excellent, intimate concert hall hosts a SURPRISING variety of local talent - this was something the old library and Halifax in general sorely lacked, and many local performers are given a chance to shine, who would otherwise have far less exposure. Most definitely something for everyone from 2 to 112.

Denis Hachey

$57M building for education and can't stream a video because of slow internet speed. I planned to come to the library today has a way to relax and enjoy a webinar for 11am. After spending $20 for a coffee and a breakfast sandwich ( I don't mind paying this for a treat to myself I love Pavia) I had to leave because the download speed was going at a snail pace. My only suggestion is to find out how the Hotel industry does this (Holiday Inn is great) and get this resolved otherwise this building is only worth half it's value if the goal is education and enjoyment. Denis

Villagemayor

Love the architecture and the uniqueness of the building.

Marylynn Shute

Very big. Lots of places to sit and enjoy a good book. Great for the whole family and lots to do. Very friendly and helpful staff.

Bi L

A very modern library in a central location. Great architecture, cool design, and the white walls with massive windows all around gives the library a ton of natural sunlight, unlike other traditional libraries that make you feel crammed inside a building. It has 4 floors, with a lot of seating room on each floor so there’s never a problem finding room to settle down. When you are of sitting and need to stretch your legs, the staircases are definitely a great way to get in some exercise! On the 3rd floor, there is a light therapy station which I thought was a lovely piece for the library. There is also a cafe on the ground floor and the top floor - limited seating on the top floor but the views are nice. When the weather is nicer, the rooftop patio is opened and you can really see the river from there. You can also order food at the cafe and the drinks are good - which is definitely a bonus!

BonbonL ART

Best Library in Maritime Canada! Very nicely layed out. The roof top garden/balconey has the best view spot of Halifax Harbour and downtown Halifax. The library has two good coffee deli shop. Its good for a short visit, long staying, really anything!

Ehab Madokh

It is one of the special modern structural in Nova Scotia, species, elegant decoration, cozy. I feel relaxed ???? ☺, and has lots of variety of book. I used to spent hours in this location. ???? If you plan to visit Nova Scotia, dont miss to spend some time in this location

When In Halifax

I love to go here especially with my kids. Its a best place to learn and have fun.

The Booku

A very cool, nicely designed and functional building which also happens to be a library! I was pleasantly surprised at all the different options offered at this library. There is a cool rooftop patio with views of the harbour, as well as a cafe with snacks for a quick bite. Lots of meeting spaces and seating as well as free Wi-fi. Would definitely recommend checking out this library if you have a few hours to kill.

Josh Barry

Awesome building, but just a fair warning that if you’re looking for somewhere quiet to study and don’t have noise cancelling headphones, it may not be for you. They have lots of community events in there for kids that tend to be quite loud.

MJ Seager

The new library is really cool. Very easy to reserve online and pick up. You can do the whole thing through self service which is important to keep low costs for the library. Many options to borrow from music to books.

K

Terrible place to try and study, kids run around like it’s a play tag like it’s a playground. If you go I wouldn’t stick around after 3:00 when school lets out. The top floor is quieter but because it’s open to floors below the sound travels and it’s harder to find seats because everyone wants to find a quiet spot to work.

Darren Anderson

An utterly amazing space. Study rooms, group seating areas, huge book and audio/video selection. It even has a cafe with a rooftop patio. Whether you enjoy reading , live performances, good architecture, or just well lit cozy places; this is a must see stop in Halifax.

girlwelshdragon

Great community hub! 2 Pavia Cafe's and an open air dining area. They have a Light Therapy (SAD) Lamp that you can use on site or rent. They have an area advertising local services, events, jobs, etc.

J Anderson

Modern, beautiful library that also serves as a homeless shelter. But you have to figure that out after you arrive. I started out on the main floor with a coffee and a nice browse, only to be interrupted by Security asking if the luggage near me was mine (no). Changed floors, couldn’t get past the people with full blankets and pillows sleeping. After dodging all the people sleeping, bathing and doing whatever else, I found a few minutes peace on the top floor. It’s a struggle.

Ethan Concepcion

An architectural beauty, where you can see the city in motion. A library is usually not the place to be, but there are so many presentations & performances you can watch for free. A lovely creation in Halifax.

Robert MacDonald

It is a four level building plenty of space to spread out..They have lots of books,magazines,and DVDs. Computers and I pads are also available to use.Stairs and elevators are available.Friendly,helpful staff are always close by if you need someone.Public washrooms are also available on each floor.Great place for people of all ages.

Josephine Plant

The design of this place is unlike anything in Halifax, it is vibrant, easy to get around and has great amenities and services, I find the staff to be rude and inefficient. The wait-time could be improved Halifax Libraries computer time is only 2hrs a day, making it difficult for students to study or work. Difficult to find a computer and you can't use the ones on the kids floor unless you're a kid/teen Adults can't use the xbox systems

KH

My favourite library in Halifax and one of my favourite places to be. The wide open space, computers, wifi, location, and the people there all doing intellectual things.

Trish Sullivan

This is an amazing public space. Such a beautifully designed building and comfortable and welcoming space. Make your way to the top floor to sit in the glass cube that is cantilevered over the floor below and soak in the sunshine and quiet. Step outside and enjoy the outdoor patio and the living roof. It’s all so well executed.

Ruth Vandergeest

This place is great to hang out, read, or do a little work. I personally find it a little body, and there isn't quite enough work space, but you can always find something. The discs is dynamic and has some good views. The staff are helpful.

BL Smith

Good social distancing protocols. Pretty quiet on a Sunday afternoon. Miss the cafes. Hopefully they will be back when things go back to normal.

Arjana Siva

Beautiful library! Came to visit this from Toronto for the love of libraries and the architecture is lovely. There are a couple of cafes within the library with lots of seating area. The rooftop is also accessible which is nice on those sunny days.

Laura Burlock

This is such a gorgeous (and photogenic!) building. The big windows bring in lots of natural light. There's lots of places to read and work, as well as a couple cute little cafés for when you need a break. It's nice that they have a separate floor for the kids stuff.

May Zhagro

Beautiful library with five full levels to explore. Located centrally in downtown Halifax and accessible by many bus routes. Due to Covid, there are more safety protocols in place such as no food or beverages and having to wear a mask the whole time. However, it is still a wonderful place to visit just to see the architecture and be engrossed in the scent and sight of books of every kind. Head on up to the fifth floor reading area to people watch the passerby’s on Spring Garden Road and take in a great view of the city.

Patrick Osborne

Beautiful new library with tons of spots to sit/study/read. It looks like there are tons of media materials/computers too, not just books. There's even a rooftop terrace! If I lived in Halifax I'd be here every day.

XING HU

Staff very kind, borrow and return books very convenient.

Hong Nguyen-Sears

Simply beautiful! One of the most welcoming buildings I’ve ever seen, and obviously well-used! Very clean, open, and full of comfortable nooks! I suggest enjoying the view from just about any window and breathing in the feeling of a library well-done.

David Pardiac

It could use a bit more natural wood and colour but amazing layout.

Kyleen McKinley

Our favourite library. Hands down. The children's floor is incredible. Great place to spend a few hours, pack a lunch and eat at one of the provided tables, watch the street traffic, curl up with a book, or join one of the programming events.

Michelle Massaro

What a cool new landmark for Halifax and a great place for learning! Books, technology, toys & gadgets for all! Unique spaces including a live DIY recording studio, video game and coding stations and a green roof top patio and cafe. It really shows how libraries have evolved! This is a beautiful, modern piece of architecture that is worth a visit for tourists and offers terrific facilities and programming for locals. Impressive!

Vicck ZH

Element place. Like the construction and the atmosphere. It is good for thinking or just a break.

dylan pretorius

Great atmosphere and interior design. Only complaint is the volume of events that are common to the library. Someone decided it would be a great idea to have a Black History Month CONCERT come in. Could hear the concert throughout the library, even in the furthest corner of the fifth floor. Like really? A concert band playing in a library...