Howdy,
I recommend heading to the gym. I know that Ground Zero is run by friendly fun people (talk to Kate, she rocks my world) and who would be willing I'm sure to give you a head start. There are other gyms in Halifax, (DAL is good now?) though since I'm not there, I don't know much about it. Someone will be along shortly to give you the dilly!
As for "getting into it".. this is my advice: head to the gym (whichever one) and meet people.. be stoked and friendly and don't worry about being "new". No one cares if you suck. I recommend you get into bouldering. It's harder, but if you're living in NS.. it's awesome! I think a quick look to
http://ns.bouldering.ca will give you a head start. Lots to do.
If you have money, go out and buy a crashpad, shoes and chalk bag (and Zig's brand spanking new guide) and you have everything you need. If you're into rope climbing.. well, you'll need to take it alot slower, since you're more likely to kill yourself if you don't learn alot of stuff.
Just buy your shoes and chalk at very least.. and you're good to go.
Mitch