About NSLA

NSLA – the Nova Scotia Library Association – is an association for those involved in librarianship/library and information studies at all levels and in all regions in Nova Scotia.

Its purpose is to facilitate the exchange of ideas, and to promote a forum for the discussion of issues amongst people concerned with library and information services.

Mandate and History

NSLA was formed in 1973 as a vehicle for library workers to exchange ideas, enhance ideas, enhance skills, keep abreast of local issues and to promote the value of libraries.

• 1973 – Western Counties Regional Library staff forms a Committee for a Nova Scotia Library Association.

• February 11, 1973 – Library staff hold a meeting at the Halifax County Regional Library to discuss the possibility of establishing an association.
  They agree that a provincial association is needed, especially to meet the needs of paraprofessional staff.

• September 29 to October 1, 1973 – The Nova Scotia Library Association (NSLA) has its first official meeting in Yarmouth.

• April 5, 1974 – NSLA is officially incorporated.

• April 1979 – A committee is established to review the Association’s aims and objectives, as the membership and programming of NSLA becomes increasingly public library-oriented.

• October 1980 – NSLA reaffirms the original role of the organization, with special attention being given to increasing membership from library types underrepresented in the Association.

Initiatives

In 1988, the late Ann Connor Brimer bequeathed $1000 to NSLA to assist in the development of an annual award to an author of children’s books residing in the Atlantic Provinces.

At the direction of the NSLA executive, a steering committee was formed to establish parameters and administer the award. A trust fund was established to finance the award, and NSLA agreed to undertake a major campaign to raise money so that the Ann Connor Brimer Award could be given on an annual basis.

Along with the Brimer award, NSLA has been involved in a number of initiatives, including the National Summit on Information Policy, the Strategic Plan for Nova Scotia Libraries, and The Partnership, an innovative network of provincial and territorial library associations across Canada.