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Halifax Central Library
5440 Spring Garden Rd, Halifax, NS B3J 1E9, Canada
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Pa
Review №1

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. Theres even a rooftop terrace! If I lived in Halifax Id be here every day.

Le
Review №2

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

Ro
Review №3

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.

Ja
Review №4

Modern library with great architecture.

Re
Review №5

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.

Pa
Review №6

One of Canada’s bestI’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.

Je
Review №7

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!

Ma
Review №8

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.

Mo
Review №9

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

Bi
Review №10

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!

Sa
Review №11

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.

Ne
Review №12

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!

Da
Review №13

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

Am
Review №14

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

Ka
Review №15

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 childrens 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.

Review №16

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.

Sk
Review №17

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 =]

Th
Review №18

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.

Gr
Review №19

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

BY
Review №20

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

Au
Review №21

Normally a pretty quiet and relaxing place. Good for studying or when you really have to get some work done. They have plenty of seats however it can get really busy so try and grab a seat as early in the day as you can. Wi-Fi is normally reliable but sometimes can be slow or disconnect. Has a very nice view as well.

Ch
Review №22

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

XI
Review №23

Staff very kind, borrow and return books very convenient.

Vi
Review №24

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

La
Review №25

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

M
Review №26

First time back since March 2020. I am disappointed that there is no cafe anymore. It was so lovely. It is also unfortunate that they say you cant bring food/drink in here now. I used to love coming to the library to work and eat lunch.

St
Review №27

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

Je
Review №28

Beautiful - inside and out!

Lo
Review №29

Im disappointed in myself that this was the only picture I took! I suppose Ill 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.

Sc
Review №30

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.

Ti
Review №31

It was great. Staff was very helpful and friendlyWill recommend to everyone.

Review №32

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

Wh
Review №33

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

Ab
Review №34

I love this library its soo awesome and there pcs are way cooler

Ba
Review №35

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.

Ka
Review №36

Hopefully sooner rather then later as Covid cases have been very low, Halifax library can bring back the childrens 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 everyones expectations are met.

Bl
Review №37

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

Ad
Review №38

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

Br
Review №39

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.Theres a cafe on the top floor with outdoor seating.

gi
Review №40

Great community hub! 2 Pavia Cafes 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.

Ar
Review №41

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.

Di
Review №42

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

AA
Review №43

Amazing and quiet place

Ke
Review №44

This is a library? Worth visiting even for a tourist

Le
Review №45

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.

Du
Review №46

Great architecture, cool study spot and rooftop patio with great views

JJ
Review №47

Friendly staff. Lots.of protocols. A doggy petting area is all thats missing

To
Review №48

Its big, they have books, computers you can use, public washrooms, etc.

Ru
Review №49

This place is great to hang out, read, or do a little work. I personally find it a little body, and there isnt quite enough work space, but you can always find something. The discs is dynamic and has some good views. The staff are helpful.

Sh
Review №50

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

An
Review №51

Very attention staff, a lot of good resources available

Fa
Review №52

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.Dont forget about the rooftop café giving unique views of Halifax.

Is
Review №53

Ultimate experience.

Ma
Review №54

Beautiful library with great place for kids, teens and adults.

Su
Review №55

Peaceful! Not very busy!

Is
Review №56

Beautiful library thats filled with almost any book you can think of.

J.
Review №57

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.

ke
Review №58

Nice place to study or kill time

Ma
Review №59

It was beautifulAnd the workers are doing good

Ta
Review №60

It is absolutely amazing!!

Si
Review №61

Although it is a beautiful location, its always loud and theyre 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 youre looking for an actual library, go elsewhere in the city.

A
Review №62

Great place to book rooms, music studios and musical instruments!

AP
Review №63

Super sweet staff. Super clean. Perfect spot to study!

Re
Review №64

I love public libraries! This is a great one with a café and nice views.

An
Review №65

I love this libary so much.

Mi
Review №66

An amazing place to come if you wanna get some actual work done lol

Sr
Review №67

Great Infra structure, friendly staffs, accessible resources....

K
Review №68

Really, really, really like this library. I just wish they have more parking spots in the garage. Perhaps they under-estimated the popularity of this library.Lots of space, lots of materials, the librarians are very, very nice and helpful. The place is clean, two cafes to take breaks, great location to step outside, lots of places inside to just read or work on the computer, the wifi is fast, etc. This library just feels so good. My favourite library of all time from coast to coast.

An
Review №69

Very awesome place! non judgemental and welcoming to all

Ka
Review №70

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

Sh
Review №71

Really love working here

Sa
Review №72

I really enjoyed my visits there as a non-resident/tourist. Great location and environment. Staff was helpful.

Co
Review №73

So much more then just a library, even if you dont want to read a book, just drop in to check out the design of the building!

Ki
Review №74

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.

Ne
Review №75

Modern architecture..Advanced technology

De
Review №76

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.

Da
Review №77

Library is a great resource for studying and writing.

Ma
Review №78

Great space to study, read and relax. Amazing selection of books

Mi
Review №79

Very modern and relaxing place. Great for studying and reading.

He
Review №80

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.

Pa
Review №81

Lovely building

Do
Review №82

This place so comportable and warm.

Ch
Review №83

Impressive and imposing. Modern and magnificent.

Aa
Review №84

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.

Si
Review №85

Amazing place for families with kids.

MJ
Review №86

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.

J
Review №87

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.

Al
Review №88

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. Its 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.

Pa
Review №89

Beautiful building; relaxed atmosphere to work, read, or lounge.

Bi
Review №90

The wifi isn’t good enough

Tr
Review №91

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.

Jo
Review №92

Nice and big so space for everyone. Only downside is its always loud, bring earbuds.

Ni
Review №93

This is hands down one of the coolest libraries Ive 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.

Th
Review №94

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.

Ro
Review №95

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

Ma
Review №96

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

Da
Review №97

Great library. Amazing architecture and design. Something for everyone here. Friendly and helpful staff.

WJ
Review №98

Its good that the library is open once again, especially in the heat of summer.

KH
Review №99

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.

Mi
Review №100

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!

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.8 Rating
  • Address:5440 Spring Garden Rd, Halifax, NS B3J 1E9, Canada
  • Site:http://www.halifaxpubliclibraries.ca/branches/locations/halifax-central-library.html
  • Phone:+1 902-490-5700
Categories
  • Public library
  • Tourist attraction
Working hours
  • Monday:9AM–9PM
  • Tuesday:9AM–9PM
  • Wednesday:9AM–9PM
  • Thursday:9AM–6PM
  • Friday:9AM–6PM
  • Saturday:12–6PM
  • Sunday:9AM–9PM
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