As the buying season commences, the Province of Nova Scotia is launching a pilot program that includes a discount aimed at promoting local literary works. In a recent press release, the government expressed its intent to facilitate the discovery of books authored or published by Nova Scotians. To support this initiative, the province is providing a $10 discount on eligible books available at various bookstores throughout the region.
Damian Stoilov, the Ministerial Assistant for Growth and Development, emphasized the importance of the book industry in connecting communities and sharing local stories. “Independent bookstores are important cornerstones in our communities that are first to support our local storytellers,” Stoilov stated in the press release, highlighting the value of local authors and bookstores.
The initiative will distribute 4,000 vouchers that can be used for the purchase of qualifying books, which will be clearly marked at participating bookstores. The program encourages local residents to explore and enjoy new literary works while supporting their neighbors.
The list of participating bookstores includes notable locations such as:
- On the Same Page Books, located in Sydney
- Baintons Tannery/Mad Hatter Books, situated in Annapolis Royal
- The Inside Story, based in Greenwood
- Good Dog Books, found in Bridgewater
- Lunenburg Bound, located in Lunenburg
- Block Shop Books, also in Lunenburg
- Bookmark, established in Halifax
- Woozles, another bookstore in Halifax
- Tattletales, stationed in Dartmouth
- Carrefour Atlantic Emporium, found in Halifax
- Open Book Coffee, also located in Halifax
The Nova Scotia government aims for this pilot program to assist individuals in discovering local authors and supporting bookstores that are operated by community members. As part of a broader initiative known as Nova Scotia Loyal, launched in February 2025, the program responds to a growing preference for purchasing Canadian-made products.
This initiative comes in light of recent tensions surrounding trade with the United States, reinforcing the sentiment among consumers to favor locally sourced goods. Overall, the program not only promotes the local literary scene but also strengthens community ties and supports independent businesses throughout Nova Scotia.
