Why Support the Library?
The Foundation Supports the Library
The Library Foundation is here to support the Gibsons & District Public Library over the long term, by providing financial support above and beyond the core funding which the Library receives from government.
Funds provided by government typically need to be spent during the year in which they are allocated. The Foundation is able to accrue funds over the years so that we can provide the Library with funds for projects and services that might not otherwise be possible. For example, in 2024 this will involve renovating the Young Adult area of the library.
The Library Foundation also makes it possible for donors to leave a legacy bequest that can be invested to generate continuing revenues to support the Library.
Read on to discover why we believe the Library is a vital institution in our community.
Gibsons Loves its Library!
Residents around Gibsons love the Library! And it's no wonder. The Gibsons & District Public Library is a hub in the community - open and welcoming to all, with something for everyone.
So Much on Offer
At the Gibsons & District Public Library you can:
- Explore a diverse collection of books, magazines and videos for all ages.
- Cozy up with a good book in a comfy chair by a window with a spectacular view of the stunning Howe Sound.
- Hold a Zoom meeting or make a recording in the Library's new soundproofed pod.
- Get online with one of six computers which are free to use.
- Read from a wide selection of digital resources including books, magazines, newspapers and material in a variety of languages.
- Sign out an item from the "Library of Things", which includes a sewing machine, a tool set, a lamp for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), binoculars, musical instruments and more.
- Join a book club to discuss one of the many titles among the Library's book sets.
- Bring in your broken household items to a Repair Cafe hosted by the Library.
- Sign out a STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) learning kit for yourself or your child.
- Make use of online databases that the Library subscribes to, including genealogical research, auto repair information, BC building codes, consumer reports, and Kanopy and NFB streaming services.
- Surf the Internet with a Library iPad and Wifi in-house.
- Obtain seeds from the seed library.
- Sign up for a BC One card that lets you take out items from any library in BC.
And best of all, Library services are free to everyone in the community! (If you haven't got a Library card yet, what are you waiting for?)
The Library is for Everyone
“We should take a moment and really celebrate that our library is thriving and that our community is using it,” said library director Heather Evans-Cullen. “Because there’s so little free public space [in urban places], we are the great equalizer. For everybody who walks in, regardless of background or income status, they have the same access to everything.”
From an article in Coast Reporter
Gibsons library puts its stamp on community enrichment
Activity in the Library During 2024
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Letter from the Library Director
Our library is a vibrant hub for culture, digital access, learning and community events: a place where everyone can find value, resources, personal development and connection. 2024 was an extremely busy year for various reasons; there has been a steady increase in demand for our services which was exacerbated by the unfortunate temporary closure of the Sechelt Public Library.
“I believe that people need library resources now more than ever” (library survey respondent).
I want to extend my thanks to our library staff who went above and beyond to meet this high service level with limited resources. This past year also marked the completion of our youth enhancement project. Thanks to funds provided by the Gibsons & District Library Foundation, our library now has a lovely space that provides a comfortable and welcoming place for young folks to gather, study and relax. Programming for children and youth has been a priority with offerings such as comic camps, escape rooms, take and make kits, writing contests and Dungeons and Dragons’ events: engaging with youth is a high priority.
From our growing Library of Things and STEAM Kits, to tech support and digital access, to exam proctoring, to working to advance Truth & Reconciliation, to supporting newcomers to the Coast — we work to bring people the resources they need to better their lives. During these tumultuous global times, the library’s commitment to upholding the principles of Intellectual Freedom and the value of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is steadfast. We thank our funders, partners, staff and patrons and will continue to make GDPL a great library that makes our community stronger.
Heather Evans-Cullen
Library Director
From 2024 Annual Report of GDPL
Our library is the first place our little and teen grandkids want to visit when they come for a visit, first for the books and then for summer and other fun programs. And they love to just hang out there, reading or studying because it's so bright and welcoming!
Shawn Cardinall
I regularly use the digital library service to check out books to read on my phone or Kobo. It saves me tons of money and is vital to my day to day life. I read to relax from a high stress job every day.
Cori O.P.
I love our Gibsons library and am a frequent visitor there! When I call to ask for a book to be put on hold for me staff are so accommodating!
Gibsons Resident
