Research at VPL

Genealogists - amateur and otherwise - visit the Vancouver Public Library all the time to made use of our extensive print, microform, and electronic resources. Here are some tips for getting the most out of your visit:

1. Check the Vancouver Public Library website for general information on opening hours, parking availability, etc. If you intend to print copies from Ancestry Library Edition, please remember that all print requests should be made at least half an hour before the library closes.
2. Explore the rest of our Genealogy and Family History pages to get a better idea of what you can expect to find in our genealogy collection.
3. Bring supplies. Come prepared with paper, pencils, and any other supplies that you might need. Free wi-fi and access to power outlets is available.
4. Bring your research materials. Copies of genealogy charts, documents, and notes may be helpful not only for you but also for the information staff should you require assistance.
5. Bring money if you expect to make copies of documents. Printing and photocopying costs 20 cents per page for black-and-white and 75 cents per page for colour; a discounted price is available for double-sided printing. Printing from the microform readers costs 40 cents per page. Copy cards may be purchased on Level 2, and may be used for regular as well as microform reader prints. There is no charge for scanning documents to USB or email.
6. Remember that the information staff at VPL are typically quite busy so please be prepared to ask specific questions. An impromptu visit is not the time to give a full account of your family history research! If you foresee needing a lot of help, consider setting up a one-to-one appointment by contacting us at info@vpl.ca.