Run a Program with VPL
Are you a Vancouver resident or organization interested in partnering with the library to offer a public program? Each year, in addition to our regular programming, we partner with local organizations and individuals to deliver a number of programs ranging from citizenship preparation courses to local author readings.
What kinds of programs can I offer?
The topics we consider for partner programs generally fall into the following areas:
- Reading, writing & publishing
- Local history
- Digital creation
- Arts & culture
- Events that spark dialogue or build community
We do not generally partner to deliver programs that:
- Are better suited to a community centre or continuing education program
- Are crafts based
- Have any promotional or commercial content
How does it work?
Fill out the form below and tell us about your program. If we decide to pursue your idea, we’ll initiate a conversation to get more information, work out the logistics and identify ways to plan the best possible library program. We occasionally connect potential partners with similar proposals to collaborate on a shared event, or refer you to another organization that is more appropriate for your needs.
Are there any requirements?
All partner events must be free and open to the public.
While we welcome ideas from everybody, we get a lot of proposals and are unable to offer all the programs pitched to us. Our selection process takes into account the library’s strategic plan and programming policy, as well as our organizational capacity.
Is there a deadline to apply?
You are welcome to submit your proposal at any time. However, please keep in mind that the library generally plans programs six months to a year in advance. A program proposal that is received and approved in January, for example, may not actually become a fully realized public program until July (at the earliest).
Please expect an initial response within six to eight weeks of submitting your proposal. If you do not hear back from us within eight weeks, you can contact us at programs@vpl.ca to inquire about the status of your proposal.