In 2024, the Municipality funded a review of library infrastructure needs in the community of Parrsboro.
The objective was to provide a report to the Municipality that would identify the needs of the community and the viability of options, including proposing the scope and location of a new facility in Parrsboro.
The Parrsboro Library Options Report was prepared by TCI Management Consultants in partnership with Beth Ross & Associates and presented to Council on April 16, 2025.
The report draws on benchmarking with other libraries, established service standards, and extensive public input — including a community survey, stakeholder interviews, and a well-attended public meeting, all of which received a high level of participation for a community of Parrsboro’s size.
Following a review of the report, Council has developed a preliminary plan for a new community space in Parrsboro. All elements of the preliminary plan are subject to change. Key highlights of the plan include:
- Preferred Location: The recommended site for new and expanded community space which includes library branch is on the existing Parrsboro Service Centre site at 209 Main Street, Parrsboro.
- Project Scope and Budget: The plan proposes a $3.3 million expansion and renovation of the current facility, which includes removal of the vault (furniture, furnishings, and equipment costs are not included). This estimate is in current year dollars and will likely increase with inflation.
- Financing Details: The Municipality plans to borrow $2.475 million as the municipal share for this project. The amount is subject to change based on project cost variations, community fundraising outcomes, and potential contributions from other levels of government. Based on current cost estimates and a preliminary 20-year financing plan, first year debt service cost would be about $235,000 including principal and interest, to be funded from the general tax rate.
- Community Contribution: The community is being asked to contribute approximately 21% of the capital cost, or about $825,000, through fundraising efforts. Fundraising shortfalls would be funded by the Parrsboro area rate.
- Timeline: The project is included in the Municipality’s 2028/2029 capital budget, with planned construction in the 2028 construction season.
- Engagement: Continued consultation with the community will be a critical component throughout the planning and development process.
Speaking on behalf of Council, Mayor Rod Gilroy said “We’re pleased to have this report now and very impressed by the level of community engagement on this issue to date. With the release of the report, we will continue to engage the community fund raising committee and the community in general as we move closer to finalizing the plan for the project.”
The Municipality invites all residents and stakeholders to explore the full Parrsboro Library Options Report, now available on our website at https://tinyurl.com/n5fdrsrs
