The West Vancouver Memorial Library was established in 1950 to honor those who lost their lives during World War II. The goal was to create a public and freely accessible information resource, ensuring that everyone could use it without restrictions. More details at vancouver1.one.
Construction of the First Building
During World War II, Vancouver’s economy—like the rest of Canada—was focused on the war effort. However, by the summer of 1944, a petition for the construction of a public library was registered in the city. After the war ended, it was decided that the library would be dedicated to the memory of West Vancouver’s fallen soldiers.
The first library building was opened in 1950, located opposite the Memorial Arch. Architect Robert Berwick donated the project to the community. The construction was funded by over 2,000 local activists, who contributed $18,000, along with business and private donations totaling $40,000.
The library officially opened on November 11, 1950. Within its first year, it acquired 3,000 books and served 1,800 visitors. The first librarian was Elizabeth Musto. Additionally, the library received a stained glass window featuring a reproduction of Sir Frank Bernard Dicksee’s painting “Harmony.”
Expanding the Library
Between 1945 and 1956, Vancouver’s population increased by 5,000 residents, reaching 19,000 people. The library’s collection grew to 25,000 books.
In 1957, the Weekend Magazine named West Vancouver Memorial Library “North America’s Busiest Library”, featuring it in a photo report. At that time, one in every two city residents held a library card.
Due to high demand, a two-story expansion was approved, covering 5,600 square feet. This new section included:
- A children’s literature section;
- A staff room;
- Additional reading space.
The expansion was funded with $44,000 from the city’s budget.
A Second Expansion
By the early 1960s, the population of Vancouver grew by another 6,000 people. According to archival records, 60% of city residents used the library, with students and schoolchildren making up the majority. The book collection expanded to 40,000 volumes.
To accommodate growth, an additional 4,200 square feet was added, which enabled:
- An enlarged children’s section;
- A reference room;
- A music library;
- A large reading hall;
- Dedicated staff offices.
The library also introduced free Friday evening concerts featuring live music.
By one year after the expansion, the book collection exceeded 60,000 volumes.
Construction of the West and East Wings
By 1970, the library once again faced space shortages due to the rapid growth of the community. A new 16,000-square-foot facility was built, featuring:
- Additional storage for books;
- Improved workspaces for staff;
- A modernized children’s literature department;
- A rooftop parking lot.
The total cost of the new wing exceeded $1 million, which was jointly funded by the library, the provincial government, and the district of West Vancouver.
The last expansion took place in the mid-1980s, when it was recommended to demolish the East Wing and replace it with a larger four-story addition.
Library Services Today
The West Vancouver Memorial Library continues to offer a wide range of services for both children and adults, including:
- Children’s programs such as: Movie nights, Concerts, The Children’s Literature Festival, Book presentations and author readings;
- Programs for adults such as: Computer training workshops, Book clubs, Film screenings, Book presentations, Special events (e.g., wine appreciation evenings and photo exhibitions).
Today, the West Vancouver Memorial Library remains a symbol of knowledge, history, and community spirit, standing as a tribute to the past while continuing to serve future generations.