To Mayor Andy Fillmore
Halifax Regional Municipality

May 25, 2026

RE: Open Letter Regarding Funding for School Librarians

Dear Mayor Fillmore,

The Atlantic Provinces Library Association (APLA) represents library workers and supporters across the Atlantic region, all of whom believe that school librarians are critically important to student success in primary and secondary institutions. I am writing on their behalf to acknowledge the immediate relief offered by the new agreement, and to respectfully ask that the Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) and Halifax Regional Centre for Education (HRCE) reconsider phasing out this important investment.

The direct link between school libraries and student achievement cannot be refuted. Decades of research has documented the positive correlation between school libraries and student achievement under the direction of qualified staff (Curry Lance & D. Kachal, 2018). Moreover, school librarians are leading the charge in realigning the library to anticipate the learning needs of today’s K-12 students. These highly qualified professionals are uniquely positioned to support students, faculty, and administrators as they navigate the intersection of information, technology, and experiential learning and lay the foundation for responsible digital citizenship. Without a school librarian, the library learning commons is just another room in the building.

Thank you for your commitment to funding for the next five years. While the reprieve is a relief for school librarians, the lack of certainty has been “extremely stressful and difficult on all the members” (Ryan, 2026). Ongoing commitment to school librarians is good for Halifax’s economy, its continued tax base, and the future of education in Nova Scotia. We stand in solidarity with CUPE Local 5047 and their promise to “continue to advocate and fight for the importance of these positions” (Ryan, 2026). On their behalf, and on behalf of the APLA membership, I respectfully encourage continued investment in the youth of your province by ensuring that this funding continues beyond the current five-year limit.

Sincerely, on behalf of the APLA Membership,

Terri Winchcombe
APLA President, 2025/26