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Home / About GVPL / Equity, diversity, and inclusion

Equity, diversity, and inclusion

Equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility (EDIA) principles guide everything we do at GVPL. We believe everyone has the right to read, learn, and connect in ways that feel welcoming and respectful. As our community grows and changes, we continue to adapt so we can serve you better.

Male and female staff members smiling
girl with down syndrome reading book

Equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility statement

Our library is a vibrant hub of creativity, learning, and community where every person’s story matters. We build our spaces to be welcoming and inclusive for everyone who comes through our doors, making sure that both patrons and employees feel supported and valued. 

Our services celebrate the rich diversity of our communities. As a team, we are on an ongoing journey of growth, always looking for new ways to learn and improve. Together, we can write the next chapter of our story, embracing and uplifting each other along the way.

EDIA priorities

Our priorities help guide how we serve our community and support one another.

Creating safe and supportive environments

Fostering spaces where every individual feels respected and supported. This includes physical safety, emotional well-being, and a culture of mutual respect and care.

Reflecting community and employee diversity

GVPL is committed to reflecting the communities we serve and ensuring the organization provides services and programs that are inclusive and responsive to the needs of our diverse communities.

Promoting equity in access and opportunity

Providing fair and equitable access to all library resources, programs, and opportunities by addressing barriers to full participation.

Engaging and collaborating with staff and community

Building strong, mutually beneficial relationships that result in collaborative efforts to meet shared goals.

Creating a welcoming and inclusive environment

Cultivating an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome and belongs.

Barrier-free access to community life

We offer inclusive, low-barrier programs, resources, and services. All library programs are free and designed for a wide range of ages, abilities, and literacy levels.

Financial barriers

Fine-free library

We are a fine-free library, helping remove cost as a barrier to using library services. Library users will no longer be fined for returning items late, but instead will be charged a replacement cost for items more than 21 days late.

Why be a fine-free library?

Free inclusive programming

Library programs and events are always free to attend. We also recognize and celebrate important cultural events through programs and curated reading lists. English language learning classes are offered in partnership with local organizations.

Programs at the GVPL

Everyday access barriers 

Inclusive and welcoming spaces

We create welcoming spaces that support dignity and inclusion. This includes access to seating, washrooms, and inclusive indoor spaces for people who may be experiencing vulnerability.

Free menstrual products

We also provide free menstrual products in all library washrooms as part of our menstrual equity initiative.

More about menstrual equity

Systemic barriers 

Reconciliation

We are committed to reconciliation with First Nations and Indigenous Peoples. Steps we are taking include expanding Indigenous collections, hosting Indigenous authors and storytellers, working with local Indigenous communities to offer Indigenous storytimes, and continuing to work in meaningful ways with local Indigenous partners and organizations.

Our commitment to reconciliation

ID clinics

We host the following ID clinics in partnership with community organizations:

  • Monthly ID clinics to help people apply for identification
  • Trans ID clinics specifically to support people with name and gender marker updates

Settlement support for newcomers

We welcome Greater Victoria’s growing cultural diversity by hosting programs and services that support newcomers. This includes settlement support, language learning, and connections through the Victoria Immigrant and Refugee Centre Society.

Information on services for newcomers

Accessibility

We strive to remove barriers to full participation for all. Learn more about what we do to make sure our libraries are accessible so that more people can read, learn, connect, and take part in community life.

Accessibility at the GVPL
Information on services for people with disabilities
Person in wheelchair with headphones and woman helping person

Get in touch

Need help? Our staff can help you with research, job searches, genealogy, and more!

By phone

Call the Library at 250-940-4875
Customer Service Line staff are available Monday to Saturday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.

By email

[email protected]
Click on the link to send a comment or question by email. Tell us how we can help. Providing your name and library card number may help us respond more quickly. GVPL’s customer service staff will reply within 1 to 2 days.

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Submit a question or comment

Personal information on this form is collected under section 26(c) of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act for the purpose of responding to your enquiry. Questions can be directed to [email protected].