Vancouver Public Library’s Central Library occupies a full city block at 350 W Georgia St in downtown Vancouver. Moshe Safdie designed its nine-storey building with a curved colonnade inspired by Rome’s Colosseum; inside, a glass-roofed atrium gives the entrance an open, airy feel. Browse books, local-history and archival material, or find a desk for quiet study. On the ninth floor, a rooftop garden offers a place to pause and look out over the city. The library also has board games, workshops and other resources beyond its book collection.
A library shaped like a Colosseum
At 350 W Georgia St, the Central Library fills a city block in downtown Vancouver. Its curving outer colonnade recalls Rome’s Colosseum, while the glass-roofed atrium creates a striking contrast at the entrance. The building’s design came from Moshe Safdie, whose proposal won a public contest. Central Library opened in 1995, replacing the previous Burrard branch.
Take time to look at the building from outside as well as from the atrium. The colonnade gives the exterior a strong, repeating rhythm; indoors, the high glass ceiling brings natural light into the main space. The library has nine floors, with lifts and escalators connecting them.
Books, archives and places to work
The collection spans books and other learning materials, including bestsellers, new releases, legal texts and case-law references. Local-history books, genealogy records, archives and other historical material give you a reason to explore beyond the general shelves. The collection also includes digital resources, and the library has services and activities that extend beyond borrowing books.
Desks and seating areas are available across the building, with some desks having outlets for laptops and phones. Quiet spaces and dedicated rooms support study and individual work. The library also has areas for teens and resources for children. Information boards around the building can help you find services intended for different communities.
The rooftop garden and other things to explore
The rooftop garden on the ninth floor is a quiet pause above the downtown streets, with views across the city. In good weather, it is a place to sit outside before returning to the library. The glass atrium is another spot to stop and take in the architecture.
For a change of pace, look for the board game area. The library also runs workshops and events, including music programs; some events require advance registration. Check the library’s event information for details before planning around a particular program. Nearby cafes and restaurants make it easy to take a break outside the building.
Preguntas frecuentes
Where is Vancouver Public Library’s Central Library?
It is at 350 W Georgia St in downtown Vancouver.
How many floors does the Central Library have?
The building has nine floors, connected by lifts and escalators.
Is there a rooftop garden at the Central Library?
Yes. The rooftop garden is on the ninth floor and has views of the city.
What can you do at the Central Library besides borrow books?
You can use study areas, explore local-history material and archives, visit the board game area, and look for workshops and events.
