Vancouver Public Library
The Central Branch of the Vancouver Public Library is a significant architectural landmark resembling the Roman Colliseum
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The main reason for tourists to visit this must-see Vancouver landmark is to take in its remarkable architectural design. The design by Moshe Safdie was the people's favourite from a design competition and it is truly inspirational, both inside and out. Construction was completed in 1995.
The exterior design of this nine story library complex resembles the present state of the Roman Colosseum.
The library complex occupies a full city block and is surrounded with an elliptical, colonnaded wall that contains reading and study areas linked by bridges to the main portion.
Levels 8 and 9 will be of particular interest to visitors. On level 9 you can relax in the new roof-top garden and take in the view of the surrounding city. This new garden was opened in September 2018, 23 years after the Library first opened in this location. Two more outdoor terraces are located on level 8.
Level 8 also includes an exhibition space, a small theatre, a quiet reading room and a lounge area where you can bring your own food or purchase snacks from one of the vending machines.
For complete details about the Vancouver Public Library see the official site link below.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: NoVancouver Public Library Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 9:30 AM – 8:30 PM
- Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 8:30 PM
- Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 8:30 PM
- Thursday: 9:30 AM – 8:30 PM
- Friday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Address: 350 W Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V6B 6B1, Canada
Phone: (604) 331-3603
Official Website: Vancouver Public Library
Vancouver Public Library Reviews
Rated
A nice and quiet place to study! If you want to use a private room, you need to book it on the second floor. These rooms are great for meetings or studying with a partner, especially if you’ll be talking. The library looks stunning from the outside and magical on the inside, creating a calm atmosphere and a patient vibe. The only downside is that some corners of the private rooms are not very clean. Also, I wish there were a section with books in Ukrainian.
Caterina Malyk - 2 weeks ago
This place is a hidden gem for bookworms and tech enthusiasts alike! It's got a massive collection of books, magazines, and reference materials, plus fun games to keep kids entertained. Plus, they have a variety of tech gadgets you can borrow or use.
Registration is easy and free, and the automatic check-in/out system is super convenient. The building itself is beautiful with lots of cozy nooks for reading and creative work.
They also offer fantastic resources for job seekers and career development. I highly recommend checking it out!
saleh amini - a month ago
My recent visit to the Vancouver Public Library left a lasting impression, particularly with regards to its architectural design. The city's grand central library, characterized by a colonnaded surround that echoes a Roman amphitheater, is a notable architectural achievement. The building's design is breathtaking, combining classical elements with modern touches to create a unique aesthetic. The Vancouver Public Library serves as a testament to the city's commitment to architectural excellence and intellectual richness, evoking the grandeur of a coliseum. With its vast collection of books spanning nine floors, the library is a veritable paradise for readers. The rooftop garden offers a panoramic view of Vancouver, providing a new and beautiful perspective on the city. Moreover, the basement is transformed into a dynamic space for families, featuring a children's library and an assortment of board games. In essence, the library functions as a community hub, fostering the intersection of knowledge and leisure.
Discovering the library and admiring its layout was a genuinely awe-inspiring and tranquil experience. The library showcases a variety of quiet reading spaces, study rooms, and workstations, making it perfect for students, professionals, or anyone seeking a peaceful environment to focus. In addition, the library provides excellent facilities, including free Wi-Fi, plentiful seating, and computers available for public use. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, always willing to provide assistance with book recommendations or technical support.
A visit to the library is certainly worthwhile, regardless of whether your interests lie in reading, studying or exploration. A notable observation is that the pillared corridor surrounding the library serves as an ideal location for capturing aesthetic photographs, especially wedding pictures.
C Khan - 4 weeks ago
Never knew there is a rooftop garden in Vancouver Public Library. The garden is on the 9th floor. Very spacious, quiet, with lots seating area for reading or snacking. Nice view from the top. Perfect retreat place when you need a fresh air and relax.
Just Me Traveling - 2 months ago
A Stunning Library in the Heart of Vancouver
I recently visited the Vancouver Public Library Central and was thoroughly impressed. The architecture is breathtaking, blending classical design with modern touches. The library offers a vast selection of books and resources, and the space is peaceful and welcoming. With plenty of seating, quiet areas, and a cafe, it's a perfect spot to read or relax. A must-visit for anyone in Vancouver!
Nargiza Toshpulatova - a month ago
Directions
SkyTrain Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
---|---|---|
Expo Line | Stadium-Chinatown Station | 7 Minutes |
Canada Line | Vancouver City Centre Station | 7 Minutes |
How to get to Vancouver Public Library by SkyTrain
No bus needed - just a 7 minute walk from either SkyTrain Station. From Stadium-Chinatown SkyTrain Station on the Expo Line exit onto Beatty and Dunsmuir Street and walk to your right (west) along Dunsmuir for 2 blocks to Hamilton Street. Go left on Hamilton for one block and you will be at the east corner of Library Square.
From Vancouver City Centre Station on the Canada Line exit onto Georgia Street and walk to your right (southeast) along Georgia for 3 blocks to Homer Street and you will be at the north corner of Library Square.
Map & Instant Route Finder
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Accommodations near Vancouver Public Library:
Photo Gallery
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Vancouver Public Library and office tower cc licensed photo by Richard Smith -
Bridges linking reading areas in collannaded wall to the main library cc licensed photo by Alex Ramon -
Photo Credit: davidwilson1949 - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: theslowlane - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: theslowlane - cc license via Flickr -
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Photo Credit: sillygwailo - cc license via Flickr
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