CAAL-CBPA is please to announce that as of April 1, 2026, the Canadian Coast Guard Academy (John Adams Library and Learning Commons) joined us as our newest member.  We look forward to many years of mutually beneficial engagement with the Library and Learning Commons staff as part of the CAAL-CBPA community!



The Academy was founded in 1965 and is situated in Sydney, NS. It is one of the best-equipped marine training institutions in the world. Welcoming approximately 80 officer cadets each year, the Academy delivers a 4-year Officer Training Program and a 6-month Marine Communications and Traffic Services training program. It also supports continuing education for fleet and shore-based operation personnel.

The Academy develops and delivers courses in the areas of:

• Search and rescue;
• Electronics and informatics technical training;
• Marine engineering and navigation;
• Ship’s logistics and second language training; and
• Marine environmental and hazardous response

The John Adams Library and Learning Commons

The John Adams Library and Learning Commons at the Canadian Coast Guard Academy is focused on nautical science and technology. It’s bilingual, and supports the Academy’s training programs including the Officer Cadet Training Program, Marine Communications and Traffic Services Training Program (MCTS), Electronics and Informatics Technical Training (EITT), and Operational Training. In addition, Coast Guard personnel from across Canada can access the library’s online resources and request physical items when required.

The library was renovated in 2023 to modernize the learning environment. This renovation included an updated and enhanced learning commons, increased accessibility to learning aids, and the addition of study rooms to support collaborative learning, team meetings, and quiet study. The library is a hub for members of the Academy to learn, work together, make discoveries, and to work hard to excel in their role in the Canadian Coast Guard.

Staff

• Tammy MacNeil – Acting Manager of Library Services
• Rachelle Brown – Library Technician
• Brandon Anthony – Library Assistant
• Mackenzie Clarke – Library Clerk

Services and Resources

• Books and journals to keep abreast of new technologies and industry guidelines
• E-resources (e-books, databases, subject guides, e-journals)
• Quiet study and collaborative spaces
• Workstations in learning commons have a laptop, headphones, and height-adjustable desks
• Study pods with noise cancelling panels, power outlets, USB ports
• Interlibrary loan and document delivery services
• Textbook services

Multi-Purpose Room

The Library offers meeting/study rooms with smart boards, technology (Wi-Fi, HDMI ports) and large whiteboards for collaboration and brainstorming. A private study room is also available.

Library Café

The library café offers hot beverages and snacks for Academy personnel.