Books, Brews, and Views: Hidden Study Spots in Halifax
Written by Jenna McConnell
Thumbnail and Banner photo by Andrik Langfield on Unsplash
As summer comes to an end and the new school year draws closer, students are beginning to think about the incoming back-to-school season. The search for this year’s hotspots for studying is upon us, and it can definitely be a challenge. There are endless possibilities to discover, each with its own set of selling points. So how can we choose just one? Below is a deep-dive into just a few great options to choose from, and some additional bits of fun for those afternoons off. They are full of breathtaking beauty, fascinating history, and relaxing comfort; perhaps you’ll find a new hangout!
Public Libraries
Who doesn’t love a library? Brightly lit and inviting, with the shelves seemingly stuffed full of novels and every other type of book you could want, a library is the perfect place to spend an afternoon hitting the books. They are widely accessible to all, with free borrowing of books, magazines and more! It is easy (and also free) to sign up for a membership; once you pick up a card at your local branch, you can register online, enabling you to request content from the comfort of your own home. The Halifax Public Library on Spring Garden Road, opened in 2014, is a wonderful spot to start. It has multiple comfortable seating areas, pods specifically designed for studying, and a delicious coffee shop right on the main floor! University libraries are slightly different, open much later than public libraries to all students. They offer space to study and socialize, enabling collaboration between classmates. We have our own Patrick Power Library right on campus that offers a variety of similar services to the libraries mentioned, and more. With quiet floors reserved for studying, as well as study rooms available for booking, being productive has never been easier. Whether you’re looking to do some research, grind out some notes, or get some readings done, a library is sure to offer everything you need.
A couple more locations:
Coffee Shops/Cafés
Photo by Pane e Circo
Who doesn’t love a good warm drink? Whatever you may be into, coffee shops and cafés around the city are another excellent place to hit the books. The calm and cozy atmosphere can offer hours of productivity, along with a delicious snack or two. There is usually ample seating available, meaning one could spend an entire afternoon immersed in their classwork if desired. It can also be a fun opportunity for communal studying if you wish to bring friends along for the ride.
Some of my favourites:
These are all rewarding and effective places to go to get some schoolwork done, but what about during our breaks from studying? As we know, taking time away from school is just as important for our overall health and well-being. Lots of the typical places people may go in their free time, like the movies, can be expensive and time-consuming, which isn’t conducive to a student’s packed schedule. Below are a few more suggestions of places that are less known and excellent to explore.
Hydrostone Market
Located on Young Street in the north end of Halifax, the Hydrostone market is a historical wonder to behold. It is named a Parks Canada Federal Heritage site, built after the Halifax Explosion in 1917. It offers vital insight into our city’s past, showing us what our city looked like in days gone by, and teaches us about that horrible event that wiped a lot of the architecture of our shore away. The market’s beautiful European architecture will keep you enraptured for hours. It has been offering a variety of eateries, shops, and services ever since its inception, just begging for you to take a stroll and discover!
Africville Park
As many Nova Scotians know, Africville is a place full of meaning and difficult history. It is one of our province’s most well-known African-Canadian neighbourhoods, and the tragedies that occurred there in the 1960s continue to be taught and discussed in schools today. The neighbourhood was turned into a national historic site in 1997, years after the unjust upheaval of its residents. Now, it is a place we can visit to learn valuable information about the history of our province, as well as take in the picturesque scenery of the area.
Walks Around Our Many Lakes
Nova Scotia is known for its plethora of lakes all across the province. Taking a short (or long) walk around your nearest one is sure to clear the mind, while getting some much needed exercise in! They are also fun spots for swimming, fishing, kayaking or paddle boarding if you happen to be an enthusiast. Taking a break by the water with a novel or some music has never sounded better to me!
Some potential choices:
Photo by Chris Abney on Unsplash
These hidden gems are only a brief glimpse into the wonderful spots our city offers. We would all be wise to check them out, and take advantage of each space! Studying can absolutely be a challenge at times, but making it more exciting by leaving behind the same-old and finding somewhere new will liven things up in a refreshing way. Whether for productivity or pleasure, exploring our beautiful home is always a blast. Breaking away from the monotony of our usual study spots can be just what we need to find new perspectives and rediscover the joys of learning!