The Nanoose Library Centre is gearing up to celebrate a significant milestone as it approaches its 50th anniversary in September.
On Saturday, Aug. 17, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the library will officially commemorate this milestone by hosting a community BBQ along with a day filled with events and fun activities for the entire family.
Founded by a group of dedicated individuals who shared a passion for literature and knowledge, the Nanoose Library officially opened its doors in September 1974, according to a news release.
Generations of dedicated volunteers have poured their heart and soul into maintaining this valued resource. What sets the Nanoose Library apart is not just its extensive collection of books, but the warm and inviting space it provides. Despite its modest size, it has played a significant role in fostering a love for reading and learning and has been a cornerstone of community engagement.
The attached hall has over the years witnessed countless gatherings, fundraisers, meetings and workshops that have brought the community closer together.
The Nanoose Library’s story is one of inspiration, resilience, and community spirit, and as a milestone event approaches. Its enduring legacy as a private library, sustained by the remarkable efforts of dedicated community members, is a shining example of what can be achieved when a community comes together.
The small community of Nanoose Bay has a long history of volunteer-run libraries, beginning in the 1930s when Reneé Wilkinson had the vision of providing a “bookmobile” service for her neighbours. She organized and ran this service from her home along with the Oman Store and Post Office until 1951 when the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) included Nanoose as part of their mobile library.
It would be more than 20 years before Nanoose would acquire its very own library. It was only when Gordon Greene decided that he wanted to donate his entire collection of over 1,000 books to the Nanoose Community that a group of insightful and interested seniors, with the help of a New Horizons grant, found and rented a local log cabin.
The doors officially opened to the community on Sept. 27, 1974, and to this day, the quaint and rustic building houses the Nanoose Bay Library Centre and Events Hall.
The Friends of Nanoose Library Society was formed and soon agreed the property should be purchased and the building enlarged to include a gathering hall.
The owners at the time, Marjorie Edmonds and Arthur Edmonds, generously decided to transfer ownership of their property for about half of its actual value. Through energetic fundraising, substantial government assistance and with the help of local benefactors, the cabin was purchased in 1976 and the new hall constructed.
Many people do not realize the Nanoose Library Centre has never been part of the VIRL. It exists thanks to the time, energy and professionalism of many groups of dedicated volunteer workers.
As a registered non-profit, the library is currently managed by a volunteer board of directors assisted by trustees, in addition to the Events Team who organize a variety of fundraisers each year, including a spring and fall book sale, the Spring Garden Club Plant Sale, and the Christmas Bazaar and Silent Auction.
Money raised at these events contribute to the day-to-day operation and maintenance of the buildings and grounds and of course provides the funds necessary to ensure the continuous flow of new books to the library shelves.
— NEWS Staff