Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) is pleased to announce the launch of the VIRL App. Find the new app in the Google Play Store or Apple App.
Access the VIRL App anytime, anywhere with our new mobile app. Search the catalogue, manage your library account, connect to digital content, and quickly access library services and resources—all from your mobile device.
The VIRL App will continue to develop features and functionality.
What can users do in the new VIRL App?
- Access library services from a mobile device
The new app provides a simple, integrated way to discover and manage library services from a mobile device. Find the new app in the Google Play Store or Apple App Store - View “At a Glance” account information
Courtesy notifications (items due within three days), overdue items, and holds are clearly displayed
- Quick links to library services
The app’s landing page has quick links to library hours and locations, eResources, and programs and events. - Scan a barcode (ISBN scan)
Scan a book’s barcode to quickly find it in the catalogue. This makes it easier to check availability, view item details, or place a hold.
This feature is available on the app’s landing page
Use search.virl.bc.ca to search and discover library materials.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I download the VIRL App?
The VIRL App is available at the Apple Store or Google Play
Are there any differences between the VIRL App and the catalogue (search.virl.bc.ca)?
Yes. The VIRL App is not a scaled-down version of the search.virl.bc.ca catalogue. It provides a different experience.
VIRL App = a mobile library service app.
It puts the user’s library account and library services into a dedicated mobile environment.
search.virl.bc.ca = the library catalogue.
Its primary purpose is finding and discovering library materials, with account functions built around that experience. It is a catalogue/discover interface.
Do you need to log in to the app before you can search the catalogue?
Yes. If you search before logging in, you will be asked to log in.
Are the VIRL App and search.virl.bc.ca catalogue syncronized?
Yes. All circulation details, including reading history, are the same in both products.
Can we view the app in different languages?
The VIRL App currently displays in English only. Although other languages are available, we are still working to integrate this feature into the live app.