Doors Open Vancouver offers peek inside Vancouver Public Library
VPL is one 18 locations giving behind the scenes access to the public on Oct. 3 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Vancouver Public Library is inviting curious residents to come check out what goes on behind its shelves this weekend, as part of the City of Vancouver's Doors Open event.
The second annual event opens the doors to 18 venues on Saturday, October 3 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Last year the event attracted over 8,600 visitors with the help of 200 volunteers.
The city hopes to show residents what it takes to run a city while giving access to popular buildings such as the Orpheum, City Hall and Queen Elizabeth Theatre.
"These unique tours give participants a view inside the city's architecture, green design, engineering and cultural heritage — and an inside look at how our city works for our people every day," said Mayor Gregor Robertson.
Check out the high-tech check-in
At the downtown library, tours will include visit to its shipping department, maintenance and supply rooms, and its high-tech check-in system.
"Technology allows material to be checked in and sorted by computer, it's amazing," said Peter de Groot from the Vancouver Public Library's central branch.
Visitors can also go on to the library's 8 and 9 floors which are normally not accessible or take in the Vancouver skyline from the library's rooftop garden.
Advanced registration is required for tours of the Carnegie Community Centre and the City of Vancouver Tactical Training Centre.
To hear the full interview listen to the audio labelled Vancouver Public Library: a sneak peek with the CBC's Rick Cluff on The Early Edition.
Elaine Chau