I haven't used this library as a patron, but I love to visit it when I'm in Vancouver---each time, I'm impressed by the open, public space. Such a beautiful library.
The main branch of the Vancouver Public Library became a family favorite when we moved west decades ago. We could hardly believe that we could cart home such a wide variety of books and music for free. More recently, computer access systems have opened up easy online catalogs and e-book loan facilities.The iconic Colisseum-styled building houses all kinds of physical collections, from vinyl recordings and sheet music to old newspapers, legal records, all types of periodicals and even a few floors of printed books. It also has good coffee and food available inside the enclave. The location is handy to much of downtown, and there is great transit close by. Highly recommended!
I go to this place every time I am in Vancouver. Not just for how it looks, which rates post cards, but also for the collections, reading rooms, and technology on access. It even has a gift shop.
The building itself resembles the roman coliseum. It is a very gran structure and easy to navigate. We stolled all through the building. Well lit, and easy access to different floors.
Library Square is a nice place to spend sometime. You can admire the architecture of the building, have a coffee or snack. there are lots of restaurants in the area, including Blenz, MacDonald's, Starbucks, Whitespot, plus many more. It is located close to the BC place stadium and rogers arena. It is also walking distance to Robson street shopping and Granville mall shopping. Plus there is the main branch of the Vancouver public library where you can go and do some learning.
It was closed when I went to visit at 10 AM on Sunday morning, but the entry architecture/views was nice to see on the rainy day I was there.
Many things can be said about this library because it is what many libraries are: convenient, full of written resources and architecturally worthy of your time.On my last visit, I found that to get wi-fi and use the internet, they issue you an internet card with a user name and password. You furnish the pin then you are set to go. I have an I-Pad and wanted to use the internet so this was a perfect match. This card can be used any time you come back to the library.This time I made a mistake of visiting the gift shop and ended my Vancouver Day but buying too many things. (Not really. They have super stuff!)All in all, if you have the time, a 'must do' Vancouver stop.
This library was years in the making. It is a huge resource centre not just for good reads and research but also people watching. The spectrum of Vancouver visits this place. If you're a TV buff, then you might recognize the curved facade (and surroundings) from Fringe, Continuum and Almost Human. Parking is a bit irritating downtown so take transit.
This library is incredible. The selection of books, tapes, audios, magazines etc is most impressive. the atmosphere invites you to stay, and the staff are most friendly. The library also has great meeting rooms.Charmaine HammondTeam Toby Paws Across Canada Tour
Everything that you think... this library will find something about what you are looking for ... There are a lot of books... If I was you, and traveling in Vancouver ... I would go again there