Vancouver Public Library plans a takeout model at certain locations, along with a computer lab downtown

    1 of 1 2 of 1

      Last year, the Vancouver Public Library had nearly 6.5 million visits across its 21 locations.

      According to its website, this makes it "the most-visited major urban library system in Canada".

      But the lights were turned off on March 16 and patrons have only had access to its digital collections.

      As part of the phase 2 reopening of the B.C. economy, the provincial government is allowing libraries to reopen at this time.

      But in Vancouver, the library board is moving cautiously.

      "The health and well-being of our staff and patrons is important to us, which is why VPL is planning a phased approach to gradually restoring services," VPL chief librarian Christina de Castell wrote on the website.

      "Currently, we are planning to introduce a takeout model at select locations, and a computer lab downtown for those who don’t have computers with internet access and rely on the library for this," she added. "We will be releasing more information on these initiatives in the coming weeks."

      In the meantime, the VPL is conducting a survey that remains open to the public until May 27.

      It asks, among other things, when people would be comfortable doing any of the following in a library branch:

      * borrowing books and other materials;

      * browsing and reading materials in the library;

      * picking up items that are put on hold;

      * returning books at a library book drop;

      * using the computers;

      * using WiFi;

      * and attending children's, teen, and adult programs.

      Comments