New community hub planned for Osprey Village through library partnership

A new community space is being planned for Osprey Village as part of a pilot project led by South Shore Public Libraries.

The initiative will see the library operate a community hub focused on programming, events and shared space for residents in a growing area of the municipality.

CEO and Chief Librarian Ashley Nunn-Smith says the goal is to create a space that brings people together.

“When you create space for people to get together, they can share ideas or learn a new skill and really just come together as a community,” she said.

Focus on programming and flexible space

The roughly 6,000-square-foot facility will not function as a traditional library branch, but instead focus on programming and community use.

Plans include a children’s discovery zone, gaming area, musical instruments and a makerspace with tools like sewing machines and large-format printers.

Nunn-Smith says the space will be adaptable based on community demand.

“We want to hear from the community… what they’re looking for, and that’s what we want to offer,” she said.

The hub will also include study pods and a 24/7 locker system for picking up library materials.

Funding challenges and municipal support

The project comes as libraries across Nova Scotia face ongoing funding pressure.

Nunn-Smith says provincial funding has remained unchanged for several years, despite rising costs.

“The core funding has stayed flat… there’s been 21 per cent inflation, so the same amount of money doesn’t go as far,” she said.

She says some regions are already facing service reductions, while South Shore Public Libraries has made smaller cuts to manage its budget.

“We wouldn’t be able to do that without that additional funding… our budget is that tight,” she said.

The Municipality of the District of Lunenburg is providing additional funding to support the hub as a two-year pilot project.

Mayor Elspeth Knickle says the investment is aimed at expanding access to community space and programming in a growing part of the region.

“We’re investing in libraries at a time when other people aren’t,” she said.

The community hub will be evaluated over its initial two-year run, with success measured through participation, usage and community feedback.

Nunn-Smith says the focus will be on both attendance and impact, including whether people are learning new skills or building connections.

Future expansion will depend on demand and long-term funding.

Opening details for the Osprey Village location are expected to be released closer to when the facility is ready.