Funded by the City of Vancouver, Vancouver Public Library has been dedicated to meeting the lifelong learning, reading and information needs of Vancouver residents for more than 100 years. Our vision is an informed, engaged, and connected city. Our mission is a free place for everyone to discover, create and share ideas and information. Last year, VPL had more than 6.9 million visits with patrons borrowing nearly 9.5 million items including: books, ebooks, CDs, DVDs and magazines. Across 22 locations and online, VPL serves nearly 428,000 active members and is the third-largest public library system in Canada. Vancouver Public Library offers a wide range of events, including author readings, civic dialogue, computer training, and storytimes for babies, toddlers, and young children.
Vancouver Public Library offers a wide range of events, including author readings, civic dialogue, computer training, and storytimes for babies, toddlers, and young children. Find out more about events like the Writing & Book Camp, VPL's Teen Advisory Group, and the Summer Reading Club. Tours are offered regularly. Search the Vancouver Public Library’s Events Calendar for upcoming tour opportunities. NewToBC unites 10 public library systems in Greater Vancouver to help connect newcomers with programs and services in their community. The library promotes Canadian writing and literature to Vancouver residents.more...See more text
First off, the building itself is a marvel: recalling classical architecture but with a very modern feel, the Vancouver Public Library’s Central Branch is certainly one of the greatest pieces of architecture in town. The exterior has a Roman Coliseum quality while the interior space is open-air, which is excellent for browsing or simply looking. The branch is open to the public and hosts many events for children. Library Square is also home to a great pub if you need a pint after you’re done perusing.
Vancouver’s Central Library on West Georgia Street is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year and is definitely worth a stop during your Doors Open tour. Designed by Moshe Safdie, the striking exterior is reminiscent of Rome’s oval Flavian amphitheatre (better known as The Colosseum) and is surrounded by piazza-like public spaces. The library is hosting tours every hour from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm to give visitors a chance to learn more about the unique nine-story building, which is home to more than 1.3 million books and reference materials.