Nanaimo North

Following changes to Provincial Medical Health Officer orders, masks are no longer required when visiting the library but you can wear one if you’d like.

• Over 60,000 items in its collection
• Automated book return
• After hours Bookdrop available
• Multiple express check-out stations
• Free public WiFi
• A laptop bar
• Drop-in public computers are available for 30 minute sessions. Printing, photocopying and scanning to USB drive available.
• Adult Book Club collection
• Spacious sections for children and teens
• Bookable meeting rooms with blue-tooth-enabled flat screen televisions
• A bright, open floor plan with large windows overlooking a natural environment of local conifers

Browse on Calendar on-line or you can find our full list of programs and events by picking up a print calendar in branch

The meeting spaces at Nanaimo North are extremely well used for library programs and by community groups.  At this time, our branch is only booking non-profit and community groups (sorry, no strata meetings or for-profit/business use).  Use of the space is free.  If your group wishes to support the library with a donation, it will be gladly received at the branch or online.  Preference given to groups that are open to the public.

Booking One-Time Meetings

Those wishing to book one-time meetings can contact our librarians at nanaimonorth@virl.bc.ca with their:

1. desired date and time (include options for best chance of getting a space)
2. name of group
3. general purpose of your group
4. how many people you expect
5. technology needs
6. contact information for the person in charge of the booking

Groups of individuals studying are always welcome to book our Study Room 1.  For same-day bookings of Study Room #1, please call the library at 250-933-2665.

Booking Recurring Meetings

In the interest of fairness to groups in the community, this branch is now using an application process for groups wishing to make ongoing bookings for their meetings.  We will also ask you to complete the Meeting Room Application if your group uses the room more than once.

• PDF version (updated May, 2023)
• Word version (revised May 2023)

Please bring your application to the branch or email it to nanaimonorth@virl.bc.ca.

How the bookings cycle works

Bookings are limited to one year at a time (September to August).  Groups can reapply for the space in April for a September start, or apply anytime throughout the year to be considered for the future.  The rooms will be allocated in May of each year, or as vacancies arise.

We are often able to accommodate shorter term use throughout the year, so please put in to use a space at any time in the booking cycle.  All-year bookings groups are welcome to inquire about use throughout the year but we are unlikely to have space for you after the May allocation.

NOTE: The Large Meeting Room is no longer available on Thursdays or Fridays for non-library use.

Facilities Available

Study Room 1:

• Available during open hours
• TV capable of connecting via HDMI to your own laptop or device, and Apple TV with necessary remotes and written instructions
• 8 chairs and large square table
• No kettle capabilities (due to electrical capacity of plug)

Board Room:

• Available from 5-8pm Mon-Thurs, 10am-5pm Sat, and 12:30-4pm Sun
• TV capable of connecting via HDMI to your own laptop or device
• 16 chairs and large long table
• Kitchenette with kettle

Meeting Room:

• Available during open hours, except all day Thurs and Fri
• TV capable of connecting via HDMI to your own laptop or device, and Apple TV with necessary remotes and written instructions
• DVD/Blu-Ray player, Shaw Cable, Apple TV
• up to 7 tables, size 2 ½ x 6′
• up to 45 chairs
• Kitchenette with kettle and coffee maker

Proctoring is available Tuesday mornings at Nanaimo North.  Students can book exam invigilation for a cost of $30 per exam.  Please see our guidelines here.  It is preferable that you use your own laptop.  If you do not have a laptop, you can use the library’s.  All exams take place in a quiet room.

The best way to arrange your exam time is to email us at NanaimoNorth@virl.bc.ca with your school and course, how long your exam will take, whether you are using your computer or writing a paper exam, and your preferred Friday dates.

The Nanaimo Harbourfront Branch, VIU and Sylvan Learning Centre also provide proctoring services that may be more convenient for you.

• Library Manager – Anthony Martin
• Customer Services Librarian – Adult – Darby Love
• Customer Services Librarian – Children & Youth – Julie Carter