Are you looking to indulge in a good book and dive into the world of literature? The broader campus community has several places where you can access books of all kinds.
One of those places is the Vancouver Public Library network. Across 21 locations, the library has provided a space for lifelong learning, supporting the needs of Vancouver residents for more than 100 years. Collections include ebooks, movies, music, magazines, and of course books, so anyone can find something to enjoy.
The closest location to campus is the West Point Grey branch, located at 4566 West 10th Ave. Campus residents can register free of charge by applying in person, and be sure to bring a valid ID and proof of address. Youth between the ages of 14-18 will need to bring a student ID issued by a B.C. high school, and those under 14 must have a parent or guardian present.
After creating an account, you will receive your library card and can start checking out books. Cardholders may take out up to 50 items at a time, but remember to return books on time or renew them to avoid a lost item charge. Most books, CDs, and audiobooks can be borrowed for 21 days whereas DVDs can only be borrowed for seven days.
The Vancouver Public Library also has a smartphone app, allowing users to put items on hold, check when books are ready to be picked up, renew borrowed items, and check when books are due.
Another option for local bookworms is the UBC Library, which has over nine million items in a diverse range of collections in 15 locations across campus.
Many campus residents living in UNA neighbourhoods are not aware that UBC Library’s services are open to the wider campus community for free. To apply, visit the library’s main branch which is the Koerner Library at 1958 Main Mall.
Applicants must be 18 years of age or older to sign up for a library card, and those under 18 may use library services with the assistance of a parent or guardian. Bring one piece of government-issued photo ID and a proof of a local address such as a bank statement or utility bill when signing up.
The borrowing period for most items is two weeks, and note that remote access for campus residents to most library eResources is limited by licensing agreements to current students, staff and faculty.
Lastly, there are several “little free libraries” scattered throughout campus, where readers may find some hidden gems.
In addition to the little library located along the sidewalk on the southern end of the Oakwood townhouses on Ross Drive in Wesbrook Place, there’s a little library outside the UBC Press office at 2029 West Mall and the Wee Beastie Little Library at the MCML building at 2357 Main Mall.
If you are heading off campus, you can also use the Little Free Library map at littlefreelibrary.org/map to find more locations in surrounding areas and throughout Vancouver.
ELINA HAILAIJIAO IS A GRADE 10 STUDENT AT LORD BYNG SECONDARY SCHOOL.