HRM Parent Blog

Pop quiz.

1. Where can you go to get free classes in children’s reading support or homework help?

2. Where can you go on a Saturday morning to see a free puppet show?

3. Where can your teens go to hang out, play games and be part of a writing group.

4. Where can you go for free baby and toddler classes?

5. Where can you learn the basics of digital photography, gardening and computer skills?

6. Where can you go to rent free movie DVDs and music CDs? 

The answer?  Our beloved Halifax Public Libraries . 

As if the collection of books, magazines, videos and ebooks isn’t enough to make you want to visit any of our great public libraries, the amazing line up of programs, classes and activities should.

My girls and I visited the Spring Garden location a few weeks ago and had a blast playing with the puppet show and other toys they have on hand, before settling on the couch for a few books.   They love it there and often choose it or the Keshen Goodman location as the place to go on Fridays or the weekend.   

It’s an amazing resource for families with programs for kids of all ages.  Offering parent and tot drop-in classes, children’s programs and lots of options for teens including a blog . 

Whether you go as a family or just a few of you, any time at your local library is considered time well spent.  Go explore and enjoy!

Today we headed down to the Spring Garden Road Library with friends to enjoy the library's "Games on the Library Lawn" program. Thankfully the weather was beautiful, and other than minor issues with the giant inflatable dice blowing away, was great fun. The kids played while I munched on fries from Bud the Spud. Success.

Such concentration on their faces! Being a games piece is hard work, you know.

We even managed to pop into the library to borrow some actual books. These librarians are a clever sort - suck you into coming down on a sunny day for some outdoor fun, and you end up with yet more books to collect fines on. Still, heaps cheaper than buying them, that's for sure. I figure it's all good.

Here's a fun idea for Natal Day weekend, happening at Sullivan's Pond in Dartmouth on Monday from noon to 4pm:

"Where do you like to read? How do you like to play? What kinds of activities or furniture would you like to see in a big new central library? Using a variety of craft supplies make your own addition to our three dimensional library model. Add play dough chairs, decorative reading nooks, sailboats you can sit in for story times or slides from the rooftop. We’ll provide the structure and the supplies - you supply the imagination!"

Public consultations for the Central Library continue in August and September - get your two cents in before it's too late. Check out the Central Library's website for more details.

For other Natal Day events, check out the Alexander Keith's Natal Day Festival website.