Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Burnaby Public Library, Tommy Douglas Library
★4.6(304 reviews)FreeLibrary
🕑 1-2 hours👶 Best for ages 0-12. Babies and toddlers enjoy dedicated storytime sessions and board book collections, while school-age children benefit from homework help programs, chapter book selections, and hands-on learning activities.🧡 Saved by 46 families
About
The Tommy Douglas Library offers a welcoming haven for families with its dedicated children's programs, regular storytimes, and interactive learning spaces designed specifically for young visitors. This highly-rated community library provides a quiet, air-conditioned retreat perfect for rainy Vancouver days, with extensive children's book collections in multiple languages and engaging educational activities that make learning fun.
Highlights
- ✓Free weekly storytimes and reading programs led by enthusiastic librarians
- ✓Extensive multilingual children's book collection including French and other languages
- ✓Interactive learning spaces with educational toys and activities for hands-on play
- ✓Comfortable family reading areas with child-sized furniture
- ✓Summer reading programs and special holiday-themed events throughout the year
Pro Tips
- 1.Call ahead or check the library website for storytime schedules, as these popular programs often require advance registration and fill up quickly during school breaks.
- 2.Bring your passport or travel documents to sign up for a free temporary library card, which gives kids access to borrow books during your stay in the area.
- 3.Visit during weekday mornings (10:00-11:30 AM) for the quietest experience, as afternoons and evenings can get busy with after-school crowds.
- 4.The library is located on busy Kingsway, so parking in the adjacent lot is easiest. Free street parking is also available on nearby residential streets.
- 5.Take advantage of free WiFi and the family-friendly computer stations if you need to plan the rest of your Vancouver area itinerary.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings between 10:00 AM and noon are ideal, offering access to scheduled storytimes and a calmer atmosphere before the after-school rush. Saturday mornings are great for special weekend programs but expect larger crowds.
What to Know
Admission and all programs are completely free. Parking is available in the library lot and on surrounding streets. No food or drinks are allowed in the library except water bottles, so plan snacks for before or after your visit.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with consistent hours. Summer reading programs (July-August) offer extra activities and incentives for young readers. Holiday closures apply for major Canadian holidays including Canada Day (July 1) and Thanksgiving (October).
Nearby Eats
Kingsway offers numerous family-friendly dining options within a short drive, including IHOP for classic pancakes and kid favorites, or explore the diverse Asian restaurants in the area for adventurous young eaters.
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