Further delay of a new library is unwarranted and irresponsible.

Allow me to start with a quote from the Canadian Urban Libraries Council where in its recent report; The Case for Canada’s Public Libraries it states, “Public Libraries are one of our most important national assets. Libraries are crucial community anchors in every neighbourhood, in cities and smaller communities, performing essential community work, and the demands placed on them are only increasing. This report captures the ongoing evolution of libraries’ roles across Canada, and calls upon all our leaders to make investments in their future.” 

I’ve followed with interest the on-going dialogue on the need and justification for a new-expanded public library. It pains me that this debate is still active, as it has been 17 years since the Needs Assessment and Master Facilities Plan to replace the McConnell library was completed. Shame on all current and past Mayors and Councillors for their lack of vision and failure to bring this initiative forward. I wonder how many have read the excellent work outlined in the above noted Plan.

I wonder, as well, is the failure to act due to the long held “it’s good enough” mantra that’s fostered a deep and lasting immaturity in Cape Breton’s inability to accept new ideas and move onward in a proud and positive manner. I believe “it’s good enough” manifests in spades in our CBRM elected officials. The decades delay in moving forward with a new library offers ample evidence that council and the mayoralty chair should be renewed every 2 terms. There should be a mandatory 2 term limit and a move from district based representation to Councillors at large. That way, our elected officers must represent the larger community rather than take a narrow parochial view reflected by my “district”.
I’ve seen countless excellent letters to the editor written by talented and caring individuals who see the fundamental value in a modern library. In the 25 years or so since moving here from New Brunswick, I’ve yet to see one letter or rebuttal from a Mayor or elected official as to why we don’t deserve a new library. Seriously; stop sitting behind muted microphones and get on with your responsibility or get out of the way.

Modern functioning libraries are a focus point for new comers and are a welcoming and safe place for the poor and disenfranchised. You’ll always find a welcome at the McConnell library, be it to use the washroom or to job-seek using one of the public internet gateways. Excellent staff offer hints and personal expertise in finding information be it on site or through their premium digital gateway. Try getting help at other public institutions…for example, you need to ring a bell outside the Police Headquarters building before being invited to enter!

Mayor and Council, please exercise the leadership entrusted to your office and approve a new Library for our current and future citizens. Further delay is unwarranted and irresponsible.


Martin MacLellan
Sydney River