The Vancouver Public Library (VPL) works to support our patients' and families' needs for connection, literacy, and recreation while on the C&W campus. Patients and families with electronic devices can join VPL programs and events, and access eBooks and other electronic materials through their home library.
If you have questions about VPL resources on campus, please contact the Family Library.
Public libraries have electronic offerings that people can access remotely, with a valid library card.
VPL holds literacy, recreation, and language programs and events for people of all ages, in multiple languages. These include peer programs that may be of interest to youth. These in-person and virtual offerings are open to all, regardless of home address. Check their website to learn more.
VPL currently partners with BC Children's Hospital and BC Women's Hospital to offer customized literacy programs on campus. If you are interested in creating a partnership for your Department or Service, email the Family Library. We will connect you with a colleague at VPL.
At many public libraries in BC, eBooks, audiobooks, and magazines are available through a mobile app called Libby. You can download the app, or open Libby in a web browser. Then, you will need to enter a library card number.
If a person does not have a library card, they can contact their local library to get one (This can often be done online).
VPL provides books to the Family Library to distribute to specific Departments and Services at BC Children's Hospital and BC Women's Hospital + Health Centre. The Family Library can fill a temporary cart with used library items from VPL. The books are rotated out annually. These items do not require a library card, and the items on the temporary cart are managed by the requesting Departments and Services. If you are interested in having a temporary cart for your Department or Service, contact the Family Library
Click here to learn how to get a VPL Card. There is the option to register in person for a library card or register online for a temporary digital card.
Baby Talk in the NICU
Baby Talk sessions are available for families in the NICU. During these sessions, families can ask questions about early literacy, and learn about fun games and ways to learn with their baby during their stay in the NICU. This is also an opportunity for families to learn about and get involved in the services VPL has to offer. The Children’s Librarian from the Terry Salman branch and the Health Literacy Information Specialist from the Family Library at BCCH will alternate hosting this event.
If NICU families have older siblings who need some reading material, they can visit the Family Library or the Sibling Support Centre. They can also check out the VPL for a vast selection of resources for children of all ages. The closest VPL branch to the hospital is the Terry Salman Branch. If families are from out of town, they can also apply for a Vancouver Public Library (VPL) card during their NICU stay, to access all VPL resources.
Other Resources at the VPL
The Reading Tree: Offered for free by the VPL, ‘The Reading Tree’ is a fun and interactive picture book for parents to encourage their child's initial exploration of the world of literacy. This book includes a practical guide to incorporating talking, singing, playing, writing and reading into your family’s daily routines in fun, simple ways. These can be picked up at a Baby Talk session or a local VPL.
Roots of Reading Video Series: This online video series for parents and caregivers of young children features information and activities to enjoy and develop early literacy skills together.
'Play' at VPL: The library offers play activities such as toys, puzzles at every location and games to support learning. There are early learning spaces, STEM and STEAM programs, and more. Activities are available for a range of ages.
BC Children's & BC Women's are programs of British Columbia's Provincial Health Services Authority. The Family Library is a library that empowers patients, families, supporters, and community members with health information. People in BC and the Yukon can borrow from our collection for free.