Borrow Anywhere, Return Anywhere Library Program Launched

Imagine borrowing a book from the Cape Breton University Library and returning it to the Alderney Gate Library in Dartmouth or borrowing a book from Dalhousie University with your Western Counties Regional Library card, without a membership fee.

Education Minister Marilyn More launched the Borrow Anywhere, Return Anywhere program today, Oct. 21, to make these things a reality.

The new service allows library card holders access to more than 100 libraries in the province, with no fees for borrowers, which were charged to out-of-town or off-campus borrowers.

"Nova Scotians are voracious library users, borrowing more than seven million items last year from public libraries alone," Ms. More said. "This innovative program gives each library user a whole province full of choices. In other words, it's your library, everywhere you are. And with no fees, it makes life more affordable for families too."

Developed by Libraries Nova Scotia, a collaboration of all public, college and university libraries in the province, the program creates seamless, barrier-free library access.

"Libraries want to be as equitable and accessible as possible to all Nova Scotians," said Trudy Amirault, regional library director of Western Counties Regional Library. "Our goal is to provide every Nova Scotian with the information, leisure reading or education resources they desire, regardless of location."

"There is a world of discovery for Nova Scotians at the libraries on our university campuses," said Joyce Thomson, library director at Atlantic School of Theology and co-chair of Libraries Nova Scotia. "We hope that this new service will allow more Nova Scotians to explore our world."

To borrow items, simply bring identification or a public library card to get a free membership at any participating library. To return borrowed items, drop them off at the nearest library.

Libraries Nova Scotia was formed by Nova Scotia's university, college and public libraries to improve library services. More information on the Borrow Anywhere, Return Anywhere program is available at www.librariesns.ca .