The Legislative Library was originally the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia before a confederation of regional governments gave birth to a fledgling Canada in 1867. The most celebrated trial within these walls was that of Joseph Howe, accused of libeling the government, and delivering a 6 ½ hour defense resulting in a 10 minute acquittal. The year was 1835, and this marked the beginning of freedom of the press for Canada. Ironically, Mr. Howe went on to fervently oppose Nova Scotia’s entry into the Canadian union --- a losing battle. The library is a Georgian room within a Victorian building, full of old Hansards and other government tomes. The oldest book is one on astronomy, dating from the 1400’s and written in latin. http://www.gov.ns.ca/legislature/