The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is working with the Town of Hay River to support the continued delivery of public library services in the community.

Short-term staffing has been secured, which will allow for the re-opening of the Hay River Centennial Library on June 9, 2026. The library will open with modified hours, Monday to Friday from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., and limited services, which will include access to library books, online library resources and computers for internet use.

Discussions are ongoing with the Town of Hay River around an eventual resumption of full library services. Further updates will be shared as information becomes available.

Public libraries across the Northwest Territories operate under community-based governance models, typically administered by municipal governments or education bodies through contribution agreements with the GNWT. The Hay River Centennial Library has functioned under a different model, with oversight provided by a library board and supported by a GNWT-employed librarian position.
 

For media requests, please contact:
Agata Gutkowska
Manager, Public Affairs and Communications
Department of Education, Culture and Employment
Government of the Northwest Territories 
agata_gutkowska@gov.nt.ca