Youth Space Planning
Since 2021, the Library has been creating a medium-term plan for the existing building that is responsive to community needs and maximizes existing space. The next phase is planning for our busy Youth Department, with a renovation planned for 2025 or later.
We need your input on what to prioritize in an expanded Youth Department space.
It's time to grow
The WVML Youth Department does a lot with a little. With a small team, this department serves more than 9,000 kids and teens, plus their families, caregivers, and educators—not to mention all our users from across the North Shore and beyond.
Over the last decade, the Youth Department has added 10 new collections, increased programming, and opened a new Teen space, all without any major renovations. Now, we need to make vital improvements and enhancements to the space we have so we can continue to innovate and meet our community’s changing needs for the next decade and beyond.
Did you know?
- WVML is one of the busiest libraries in BC.
- In 2022, the Youth Department generated more than 300,000 loans, offered programs for 11,600 attendees, and answered more than 10,000 queries.
- In the first half of this year, the Youth Department was responsible for more than 1/3 of all circulation in the Library.
Upcoming presentations and events
Join us to learn more about this project and discuss ideas.
FAQs
The WVML Youth Department does a lot with a little. With a small team, they serve more than 9,000 kids and teens, plus their families, caregivers, and educators.
In 2022, the Youth Department generated more than 300,000 loans, offered programs to 11,600 attendees, and answered more than 10,000 queries.
There hasn’t been a substantial upgrade since 2013, with the introduction of the Teen Space. Kids and families haven’t seen any upgrades since 2005, with the addition of the Storyhouse.
Construction won’t begin until 2025 or later—for now we are just soliciting feedback and planning.
We will look for a variety of funding types, including local municipal support, fundraising (capital campaign), sponsorship and grants.
All email feedback sent to youth@westvanlibrary.ca will be recorded and considered.
In addition, you can contact the Project Leads below.
Project Leads
Stephanie Hall
Director
Shannon Ozirny
Head of Youth Services
- 604.925.7424
- shall@westvanlibrary.ca
- 604.925.7422
- sozirny@westvanlibrary.ca