News and Stories

Nanaimo, BC (May 30, 2026) – today, Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) celebrates 90 years of service to communities across Vancouver Island, Haida Gwaii, Bella Coola, and the Central Coast. Established in 1936, VIRL is one of the first shared service organizations in British Columbia and a cornerstone of community wellbeing.

It all began with a small grant of $500 from the Andrew Carnegie Foundation, six library branches and a collection of 12,648 books. Today, VIRL is one of British Columbia’s largest and most geographically diverse public library systems, serving urban centres and some of Canada’s most rural and remote communities. This milestone reflects more than the growth of an organization. It represents a shared public value: access to information, ideas, learning, and opportunity must be available to everyone.

For generations, libraries have served as trusted public institutions where people discover, connect, and participate in community life. Today, VIRL supports communities through literacy and lifelong learning programs, digital access and technology services, cultural and language initiatives, local partnerships, community gathering spaces, and free access to collections and resources that help people learn, create, and connect.

“As we celebrate VIRL’s 90th anniversary, our longevity is a testament to the value we bring today, and for future generations,” said Jonathan Lerner, Chair of the Vancouver Island Regional Library Board. “We are part of the history and experience for generations of people, through times of growth, change, and challenge. VIRL remains a constant presence in community life, lighting the way for a brighter future.”

“For 90 years, VIRL has helped communities learn, connect, and thrive,” said Eileen Gillette, Executive Director of Vancouver Island Regional Library. “Every day, we see the impact libraries have in people’s lives, whether through a child’s first library card, access to technology, opportunities for lifelong learning, cultural and language revitalization, or simply a welcoming place to belong. This anniversary is a celebration of the communities we serve and the countless people who have helped shape VIRL’s story over the past nine decades.”

Local celebrations are taking place today to recognize unique communities and the shared history of the regional library system. Community members are welcome to visit their local library branch to enjoy refreshments and activities, sign commemorative guest books, and share memories of the role libraries have played in their lives.

Celebrations continue throughout the summer, with the VIRL 90th Anniversary Passport Program. People of all ages are invited to explore branches across the region, collect unique branch stamps, and enter regional and system-wide prize draws. The program continues through BC Library Month in October, highlighting the diversity, geography, and connectedness of the VIRL service area.

To learn more about VIRL’s 90th anniversary celebrations and the Anniversary Passport Program, visit virl.bc.ca/90th

About Vancouver Island Regional Library

Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) connects and empowers island and coastal communities through equitable, barrier-free access to library services, resources, and opportunities. Serving 38 jurisdictions across more than 42,000 km², VIRL is one of British Columbia’s largest and most geographically diverse public library systems, fostering connection, discovery, and lifelong learning throughout one of Canada’s most diverse regions.

For more information, interviews, or media inquiries, please contact:

VIRL Media Contact

Natasha Bartlett, Assistant Director of Marketing & Development

250.327.3114

nbartlett@virl.bc.ca