During the launch there were readings from some of the books. The titles in this list have been hand-picked by library staff, and vary from picture books for babies to novels for young adults.
The collection was sponsored by the TD bank.
Eric Stackhouse, chief librarian for the Pictou-Antigonish Regional Library, said the books will go a long way to helping promote diversity in the town.
“As a public library, we know that literacy and education are key to creating positive and inclusive communities that welcome and celebrate diversity,” he said. “By providing books that celebrate and share stories of this diversity for young and old alike we as a community are making a strong statement towards that end.”
He believes that by creating a more diverse and welcoming community, people will be encouraged to stay.
“The more we can do the better chance people will stay and become part of our ever-changing community.”
Deputy Mayor Clyde Fraser thanked TD for putting their money where their mouth is and helping out with this initiative, which he said is one of many happening within the town.
“We’ve got lots of good reasons why we should strive to move in that direction,” he said of celebrating diversity.
Speaking on behalf of TD, local customer service manager Jeremy MacAulay said he hoped that the collection would inspire a love and passion for reading.
“Hopefully that stays with you for the rest of your life no matter how busy it does get,” he said. “Reading is one of those things you can always take with you.”
