Chantale Pard Dies At 37: Halifax Public Libraries Honors the Youth Services Librarian
The Halifax youth services community is in shock and grief after the sudden death of Chantale Pard, a beloved librarian and youth advocate who dedicated her life to helping young people discover their passions and potential. Pard, 37, passed away on January 5, 2024, after a brief illness.
Pard was the youth services librarian at the Keshen Goodman Public Library, where she worked for more than five years. She was known for her innovative and inclusive programming, such as anime clubs, STEM activities, cultural experiences, and special events. She also authored two books on anime and STEM programming for librarians, sharing her expertise and enthusiasm with colleagues across the country.
“Chantale was a bright light in our library system and in our community. She had a genuine love for young people and a talent for creating programs that sparked their curiosity and creativity. She was always smiling, always positive, always supportive. She will be deeply missed by everyone who knew her,” said Asif Khan, the chief librarian of Halifax Public Libraries.
A Passion for Anime and Manga
Chantale Pard’s passion for anime and manga, or Japanese animation and comics, was evident in her work and in her personal life. She was an avid fan and collector of anime and manga, and she introduced many young people to the art form through her popular anime clubs. She also organized anime screenings, games, crafts, food, and parties, as well as cultural experiences that showcased the history and diversity of Japan.
“Chantale was the reason I got into anime and manga. She showed me that it was more than just cartoons. It was a way of expressing myself, of learning about different cultures, of making friends. She was like a big sister to me and to many others. She always encouraged us to be ourselves and to follow our dreams,” said Rania Ahmed, 16, a regular attendee of Pard’s anime programs.
Pard also used anime and manga as a tool for promoting literacy, diversity, and inclusiveness among young people. She helped them discover anime and manga that reflected their identities and experiences, as well as those that challenged their perspectives and expanded their horizons. She also facilitated discussions and activities that fostered critical thinking, empathy, and respect.
“Chantale was a champion of diversity and inclusiveness in anime and manga. She exposed us to anime and manga that featured characters and stories from different backgrounds, genders, sexualities, abilities, and cultures. She also taught us how to appreciate and celebrate the differences and similarities among us. She made us feel welcome and valued in the library and in the world,” said Levi Jones, 18, another anime club member.
A Leader in STEM Programming
Pard was also a leader in STEM programming, or science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, for young people of all ages. She developed and delivered a variety of STEM programs that engaged young people in hands-on learning and exploration. She also collaborated with local organizations and experts to bring STEM resources and opportunities to the library.
“Chantale Pard was a visionary in STEM programming. She had a knack for making STEM fun and accessible for young people. She introduced us to topics and concepts that we never learned in school, such as robotics, coding, astronomy, and environmental science. She also connected us with mentors and role models who inspired us to pursue STEM careers and hobbies,” said Maya Patel, 15, a participant of Pard’s STEM programs.
Pard also used STEM programming as a means of empowering young people, especially girls and underrepresented groups, to develop their skills and confidence in STEM fields. She created a supportive and inclusive environment where young people could experiment, collaborate, and problem-solve. She also encouraged them to apply their STEM knowledge and skills to real-world issues and challenges.
“Chantale was a mentor and a friend to me and to many other girls who were interested in STEM. She showed us that STEM was not only for boys, but for everyone. She helped us overcome our fears and doubts, and gave us the tools and the guidance we needed to succeed in STEM. She also motivated us to use our STEM skills to make a positive difference in our community and in the world,” said Olivia Smith, 17, a STEM program volunteer.
Chantale Pard’s Obituary, Death & Legacy
Chantale Pard’s legacy of love and service will live on in the hearts and minds of the young people she touched and the colleagues she inspired. She leaves behind her husband, David Pard, her parents, Michel and Louise Pard, her brother, Marc Pard, and her extended family and friends. A celebration of her life will be held at the Keshen Goodman Public Library on January 15, 2024, at 2 p.m. All are welcome to attend and share their memories and tributes.
“Chantale was a gift to us all. She was a remarkable librarian, a passionate youth advocate, and a wonderful human being. She made the world a better place with her kindness, her generosity, and her joy. She will always be remembered and cherished by the Halifax youth services community and beyond,” said Khan.
