Walk through the library courtyard and through the doors of the Central Branch, and you're greeted by a quote to set the tone for your visit to the library:

"I have always imagined that Paradise will be a kind of library." ― Jorge Luis Borges

The quote suits us because we aim to make Central a welcoming space for everyone, a place of activity and discovery that accommodates different learning styles and needs. We have quiet corners for reading or researching on the Internet; lively areas for kids and families to learn, grow and play; and study rooms for groups to collaborate and uncover great ideas.

Located in the heart of downtown Victoria, the Central Branch is the largest of the GVPL system's branches. GVPL's main resource centre, the Central Branch houses specialized collections like the Heritage Room with local history resources and the Emerging Local Authors Collection, featuring home-grown talent.

Central also has a large community meeting room with floor to ceiling windows, and the branch is home to GVPL's administrative offices.

If you find yourself downtown for work, shopping, or entertainment, we hope you'll follow your curiosity to the Central Branch. Our staff are keen to welcome you to our space and help you connect, discover and imagine.

Facility Information