#Central branch of Vancouver Public Library

[rabbitcruiser]

Side By Side

What do you think about my pic?

[lifewithaview]

Anna Torv in Fringe (2008) Olivia

S3E1

Brandon follows the orders of The Secretary and injects drugs in Olivia to brainwash her to convince that she is the Olivia from the parallel universe. However she succeeds to escape from her imprisonment on the Liberty Island and swims to Manhattan. She abducts the taxi driver Henry and forces him to drive to the Opera House expecting to return home; however the place is quarantined. Then she heads to the Massive Dynamic and finds that the company does not exist in the alternate universe. Meanwhile the Fringe Division is assigned by The Secretary to hunt Olivia. What will she do?

*The alternate Manhattan headquarters for Fringe Division is a several story oval building with a hint of Roman Colosseum and a roof garden. The building is actually the central branch of the Vancouver Public Library.

[spockvarietyhour]

Ah, Vancouver Public Library's Central Branch's return. Probably better known in BSG

[katblu42]

Day 10 - Vancouver

Officially today is the first day of an organised tour . . . so I had to change hotels (because this one is included in the package).

Checked out of the awesome place I spent the last 2 nights, lugged my suitcase down the street and was all checked into the new place by midday.

It wasn't far . . .

That building there is where I was staying. I can see it from the room I have for tonight!

I moved from being across the street from the Vancouver Public Library (Central Branch), to across the street from BC stadium.

I only did a little exploring today - the Vancouver Lookout observation tower being the first.

It has a glass-fronted elevator, so that as you ride up (and down) you can see out at the city. It's kind of trippy!

The tower gives good views of the city and surrounding mountains in all directions.

I liked the Sun Tower building and the Dominion Building (the red one in front). The goldy coloured one between them also has a name, but I've forgotten it because it's info plaque was no where near this view! A lot of the info plaques, and their little maps were not placed in relation to the view! It confused me, and many others while we were there.

The Queen Elizabeth was in town, berthed beside Canada Place.

Across the tops of the buildings is the view of Stanley Park, and over the Lions Gate Bridge to West Vancouver and the mountains beyond.

Once I'd done my 360degrees, it was back down in the elevator with a view, and down the street a bit to the Gastown Steam Clock.

Can't upload more than one video! There is a second one - I'll try adding it to a reblog.

I wanted to get a video of the clock chiming the quarter hour so you could hear the wonderful sound of the steam whistle . . . but I missed it!

Anyway - I did head back to the hotel after that to try and get an early night because I have a super early start in the morning. We will not talk about the fact it's midnight and I have to be up at 5:30am!

[sweetteaandpie]

i'm watching episode 6 of season 1, "litmus," and the camera panned to the caprica city skyline. apparently, caprica also has a scotiabank. 🤣 seeing so many vancouver landmarks, like the central branch of the vancouver public library and simon fraser university.

[fun-in-the-pacific-paradise]

Vancouver for Families: Kid-Friendly Fun in the Pacific Paradise

Vancouver, nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains, is a vibrant city that offers an unparalleled blend of urban excitement and natural beauty. This Canadian gem has become a favorite destination for families seeking adventure, culture, and unforgettable experiences. With its diverse attractions, child-friendly amenities, and welcoming atmosphere, Vancouver stands out as a Pacific paradise that caters to visitors of all ages.

From world-class parks and interactive museums to thrilling outdoor activities and culinary delights, Vancouver promises a vacation filled with wonder and joy for both parents and children. As we explore the city's family-friendly offerings, get ready to discover why Vancouver should be at the top of your travel list for your next family getaway.

Outdoor Adventures

Stanley Park, often referred to as the crown jewel of Vancouver, is a 1,000-acre urban oasis that offers a plethora of activities for families. The Seawall, a 5.5-mile paved pathway encircling the park, is perfect for scenic bike rides. Rent bikes near the park entrance and enjoy breathtaking views of the city skyline, mountains, and ocean as you pedal along. For a break, stop at one of the many beaches or playgrounds scattered throughout the park.

Within Stanley Park, the Vancouver Aquarium awaits with its fascinating marine life exhibits. Children will be captivated by the beluga whales, sea otters, and penguin habitats. The aquarium's commitment to conservation and education makes it both entertaining and informative for visitors of all ages.

Don't miss the Stanley Park Miniature Train, a delightful 2-kilometer journey through the forest. This 15-minute ride is especially magical during holiday seasons when the train and surrounding areas are adorned with festive lights and decorations.

For a bird's-eye view of Vancouver, head to Grouse Mountain. The Skyride gondola offers a thrilling ascent to the summit, where a world of adventure awaits. In summer, catch the entertaining Lumberjack Show, showcasing the skills of burly woodsmen in a comedic performance. Year-round, visitors can observe the Grizzly Bear habitat, home to two orphaned grizzlies, offering a unique opportunity to see these magnificent creatures up close.

Families staying in hotels in downtown Vancouver will find easy access to these outdoor attractions, with many accommodations offering shuttle services or helpful information on public transportation options.

Rainy Day Activities

Vancouver's temperate climate means occasional rainy days, but fear not – the city has plenty of indoor attractions to keep families entertained.

Science World, located in the iconic geodesic dome at False Creek, is a wonderland of interactive exhibits that spark curiosity and learning. Kids can conduct experiments, explore the human body, and dive into the world of physics through hands-on displays. The IMAX theatre, with its massive screen and immersive experience, showcases stunning nature documentaries and educational films that will leave the whole family in awe.

For a quieter yet equally enriching experience, visit the Vancouver Public Library Central Branch. This architectural marvel houses an extensive children's section filled with books, games, and comfortable reading nooks. Regular story times and special events make it a perfect spot for young bookworms. Parents will appreciate the opportunity to relax while their children explore the world of literature.

Many hotels in downtown Vancouver are within walking distance or a short transit ride from these attractions, making it convenient for families to plan their rainy day adventures.

Cultural Experiences

Vancouver's rich cultural tapestry offers families numerous opportunities to learn and explore. The Museum of Anthropology, located on the University of British Columbia campus, showcases an impressive collection of Indigenous art and artifacts from the Pacific Northwest and around the world. The museum offers kid-friendly tours and activities that bring ancient cultures to life, fostering an appreciation for diversity and history.

Granville Island, a peninsula and shopping district, is a hub of creativity and fun. The Kids Market is a treasure trove of toy stores, craft shops, and play areas designed specifically for children. On sunny days, the nearby water park provides refreshing entertainment. For a dose of laughter and improvisation, catch a family-friendly show at Granville Island Theatre Sports, where actors create hilarious scenes based on audience suggestions.

Beach Fun

Vancouver's beaches offer the perfect blend of relaxation and activity for families. Kitsilano Beach, affectionately known as "Kits Beach" by locals, boasts a heated outdoor pool – the longest in Canada at 137 meters. The pool overlooks the ocean, providing a unique swimming experience with a stunning backdrop. Adjacent to the pool, a large playground keeps younger children entertained for hours.

Spanish Banks, a series of beaches in Vancouver's west side, is ideal for families seeking a more laid-back beach day. The extensive sandy shores are perfect for sandcastle building competitions. For older kids and adventurous parents, skim boarding lessons are available, offering a fun way to ride the waves.

Families staying in hotels in downtown Vancouver can easily reach these beaches via public transportation or a short drive, making for convenient day trips during their stay.

Unique Vancouver Experiences

For an unforgettable adventure, visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. The main attraction is the 450-foot long suspension bridge that sways 230 feet above the Capilano River. The Treetops Adventure takes visitors on a series of smaller suspension bridges amidst the towering Douglas firs, offering a squirrel's-eye view of the forest. The Cliffwalk, a cantilevered walkway clinging to the granite cliff face, provides thrills and spectacular views for those brave enough to traverse it.

FlyOver Canada, located at Canada Place, offers a unique virtual flight experience. Suspended in front of a massive spherical screen, participants soar over Canada's stunning landscapes, feeling the wind in their hair and mist on their faces. The interactive pre-show sets the stage for this immersive journey across the country.

Family-Friendly Dining

Vancouver's diverse culinary scene caters well to families with a variety of kid-approved restaurants. Many eateries offer children's menus, high chairs, and even activities to keep young diners entertained. From casual cafes to family-style restaurants, there's something to satisfy every palate.

Don't miss out on local treats that have become Vancouver institutions. Tim Hortons, Canada's beloved coffee and donut chain, is a must-visit for a quick snack or casual meal. For a uniquely Vancouver experience, try JapaDog, a street food vendor that has gained cult status with its fusion of Japanese and North American flavors in hot dogs.

Many hotels in downtown Vancouver are situated near family-friendly dining options, making meal times convenient and stress-free for traveling families.

Tips for Traveling with Kids in Vancouver

Vancouver's efficient public transportation system, including buses, SkyTrain, and SeaBus, makes getting around the city with children a breeze. Many attractions are also within walking distance of each other, especially in the downtown core.

The best times to visit Vancouver with family are during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is most favorable for outdoor activities. However, spring and fall can also be delightful, with fewer crowds and mild temperatures.

When choosing accommodations, consider hotels in downtown Vancouver that offer family-friendly amenities such as pools, kitchenettes, or suites with separate sleeping areas for children. Many hotels also provide cribs or rollaway beds upon request, ensuring a comfortable stay for the whole family.

Conclusion

Vancouver truly stands out as a family-friendly destination, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and exciting attractions. From the lush expanse of Stanley Park to the thrilling heights of Grouse Mountain, from interactive learning at Science World to cultural immersion at the Museum of Anthropology, Vancouver provides endless opportunities for family bonding and memory-making.

The city's commitment to accessibility, safety, and diverse entertainment options makes it an ideal choice for families seeking a vacation that caters to all ages and interests. Whether you're building sandcastles at Spanish Banks, exploring the wonders of the Vancouver Aquarium, or savoring local treats, Vancouver promises an unforgettable Pacific paradise experience for your family. As you plan your next family adventure, consider the allure of Vancouver – a city where urban sophistication meets natural splendor, and where every day brings new discoveries for both young and old. Your family's perfect Canadian getaway awaits in this jewel of the Pacific Northwest.

[j-j-lee]

BETTER NEXT YEAR: available now, live events... EVERYWHERE!!!

The anthology is out. Better Next Year is...

". . . horrible and beautiful . . . Over the winter holidays, every plan we make, action we take, and outcome that falls upon us is magnified. Possibly by then the year is so long and old that we enter those final weeks with our nerves raw and frayed, so we feel it all.”

It's a collection of true-life Christmas memories that are heartbreaking, hilarious, and always poignant.

I've wanted to bring these stories together for a LONG time. And I'm so happy to share the season’s most miserable moments in surprising ways.

It features incredible stories by First Nation Communities Read winner Joseph Kakwinokanasum, Edna Staebler Non-Fiction Award winner Sonja Larsen, Griffin Prize and Governor General’s Award winner Tolu Oloruntoba, alongside new and emerging authors.

Better Next Year illuminates the best and worst of Christmas while never losing sight of the star of hope.

To hear stories LIVE and IN-PERSON, come to one of our FREE events by reserving your spot:

Thursday, Nov. 16, 6 PM - Massy Arts in Vancouver

Sunday, Nov. 26, 2 PM - Semiahmoo Branch, Surrey Public Libraries

Friday, Dec. 1, 6 PM - Caffe Fanstastico w Munro's Books, Victoria

Saturday, Dec. 9, 2 PM - Central Branch, Vancouver Public Library

Sunday, Dec. 10, 3 PM - West Vancouver Memorial Public Library

[biglisbonnews]

City Of Burnaby Chooses Location For New City Hall Building Almost exactly four months after the City of Burnaby launched the process to develop a new City Hall, the three potential locations have been narrowed down to one: the Civic Square site that's currently home to the Bob Prittie Metrotown Public Library.City staff will be seeking approval of the site in a Council meeting on Monday, citing results of the public survey the City conducted that heavily favoured the site over the other options: the Bonsor Park site and the Firefighter's Public House site. The City's public engagement for the project was held from May 31 to July 30, and the Civic Square site was identified as the top choice by 1,857 (46%) of the 4,057 respondents. The option that received the second-most selections was actually "none of the above," which was selected by 1,349 (33%) of respondents, while the two remaining site locations were a distant third and fourth. The Bonsor Park site was the preferred option for 457 (11%) of respondents while the Firefighter's Public House site was chosen by 394 (10%) of respondents. (City of Burnaby)All three locations are in fairly close proximity to one another, behind the Metropolis at Metrotown shopping mall, and the Metrotown neighbourhood was chosen by the City because it is designated as Burnaby's "downtown" in the Metrotown Downtown Plan. The neighbourhood is anchored by the shopping mall and Metrotown Station, a transit hub that annually ranks as one of the three busiest stations in Metro Vancouver. The Civic Square site for the new City Hall building is located directly across the street from Metrotown Station, and is the site that is the closest of the three options to Metrotown Station. The three options for Burnaby's new City Hall building. (City of Burnaby) The New City HallThe Civic Square site, located at 6100 Willingdon, is currently home to the Metrotown branch of the Burnaby Public Library, as well as a large public park with numerous seating areas, water features, greenery, and points of entry on all four sides.The site is approximately 4.4 acres and the library currently occupies most of the northwest corner of the site. Although the design concept has not been finalized, the preliminary concept is that the new City Hall building will be located along Kingsborough Street, directly across the street from Crystal Mall. The existing library would likely be redeveloped and placed next to City Hall, while the southern half of the site would consist of the new Civic Square. (The library has recently undergone upgrades and renovations that remain ongoing, which now appear to have been for nothing.)"The Civic Square site offers a unique ability to situate a significant civic facility within the downtown on a site that has public access on all four of its frontages," staff said in their recommendation. "No other such opportunity exists in Metrotown. This unique opportunity presents the possibility of a fully public space, especially in a scenario involving redevelopment and integration of the adjacent Bob Prittie Metrotown Library into the new civic facility."Staff also say that the site would allow for "iconic architecture" and that building heights would not be of much concern, or out of place, due to the existing density around the area. Immediately south of the site, on the other side of Central Boulevard, is the Metrotown neighbourhood's central residential redevelopment area, with countless high-rises built in recent years and more underway. (Burnaby Public Library) The design concept for the Civic Square site.(City of Burnaby) The motivation to relocate City Hall comes from the existing City Hall — on 4949 Canada Way — nearing the end of its life, after being constructed in 1955. According to the City, the existing building "lacks sustainability and inclusivity provisions" and would need significant upgrades that could cost approximately $70M. Furthermore, staff are spread out across five buildings, many of which were added later on as Burnaby grew, and the relocation would consolidate staff into a single location.The City has yet to identify what it would do with the existing City Hall site and said that redeveloping the existing site was not an option because it would require a temporary City Hall be constructed during construction, which would balloon the cost of the project.The selected Civic Square site would also likely include other amenities and uses, which was identified as being important by 2,604 (64%) of the survey respondents. The amenities that received the most selections were restaurant/café (1,543), meeting rooms (1,376), a cultural venue (1,220), and childcare space (1,156). Staff note that a cultural venue may not be feasible for the site as it would likely limit the amount of space available for a public plaza, but said that "a cultural venue can be sought elsewhere in the Metrotown area, in concert with redevelopment." The key concern many respondents have with the Civic Square site is the resulting traffic congestion, as Central Boulevard — the road that would separate Metrotown Station and the new City Hall — is already a major arterial road and quite congested. According to staff, if the Civic Square site is approved on Monday, staff will immediately begin planning out the project from now until Q3 2024. Staff say that this first stage would "define the scope of work for the development of the new City Hall without further delay, and explore opportunities to include other desired programming components as suggested by the survey results."Staff also emphasize the need to move fast, estimating that every month a project of this scale is delayed could result in an additional cost of at least $2M due to construction cost inflation. The design phase would then run from Q4 2024 to 2026, with construction expected to begin in 2027 and completion anticipated for 2030. https://storeys.com/burnaby-new-city-hall-location/

[ruinconstellation]

Cornelia Oberlander

Cornelia Hahn Oberlander, reknowned master of landscape architecture, passed away a few days ago. She produced designs for many, many public works and spaces, particularly in Vancouver, B.C.

Logs at a City of Vancouver beach

Vancouver Public Library (central branch downtown)

Northwest Territories Legislative Building

National Gallery of Canada

Robson Square + Law Courts of B.C.

[rabbitcruiser]

Closing In

What do you think about my pic?    

[dm-me-your-weltanschauung]

Don't know if anyone's added photos of the Vancouver Public Library's Central Branch to this post, but if not, here you go.

It opened in the mid-1990s (I think), so it's not heritage architecture or anything, but I love it just the same.

I’m always a slut for libraries with beautiful architecture

[hkrammrealtor]

Reposting @evvancouver Happy Friday! We love exploring our city and admiring the architecture, especially on gorgeous days like these. One of our favourite Vancouver landmarks is definitely the central branch of the Vancouver Public Library. ⁠ ⁠ Did you know the design of the space was the largest capital project ever undertaken by the City of Vancouver? #FindUsEVerywhere . . #socialrealtor #wp #realtor #yaletown #theEVlist #vancouverrealestate #library #movielocation #homerstreet #robsonstreet #livingroof (at Vancouver Public Library) https://www.instagram.com/p/B8jrjlhBj1F/?igshid=37cdgtp5xsp5

[rickchung]

Fall Brawl: September 2022

Metro Vancouver Events Calendar:

Now-Jan. 22: T.Rex: The Ultimate Predator @ Science World

Now-Oct. 30: Mount Pleasant Farmers Market @ Dude Chilling Park / Kitsilano Farmers Market / West End Farmers Market (Sundays)

Now-Oct. 29: Riley Park Farmers Market / Trout Lake Farmers Market (Saturdays)

Now-Oct. 10: Richmond Night Market @ River Rock Casino

Now-Oct. 6: False Creek Farmers Market @ Concord Community Park (Thursdays)

Now-Oct 5: Downtown Farmers Market @ Vancouver Art Gallery North Plaza

Now-Sept. 24: A Midsummer Night’s Dream / Romeo and Juliet @ Bard on the Beach

Now-Sept. 5: The PNE Fair

Now-Sept. 2: Shipyards Live @ The Shipyards (Fridays)

Sept. 2: Victory Square Block Party

Sept. 3-25: Vancouver International Flamenco Festival

Sept. 3-5: TaiwanFest @ Vancouver Art Gallery Plaza

Sept. 8-19: Vancouver Fringe Festival @ Granville Island

Sept. 8: Put Yourself Out There Podcast Recording @ Herschel Suppy Gastown

Sept. 9: Rooftop Remix @ Vancouver Public Library Central Branch

Sept. 10-11: Light Up Chinatown

Sept. 10: Car Free Day @ Commercial Drive

Sept. 11: Ladner Village Market

Sept. 13-18: Vancouver Improv Fest

Sept. 14-17: To Perfection @ Studio Theatre at Surrey Arts Centre

Sept. 16-25: Word Vancouver Festival

Sept: 17: Shipyards Festival @ Shipyards District / Car Free Day @ North Vancouver

Sept. 18-19: Clerks III: The Convenience Tour @ Rio Theatre

Sept. 18: Car Free Day @ Main Street

Sept. 21-24: Khoj: A Contemporary Kathak Dance Extravaganza @ Firehall Arts Centre

Sept. 22-25: Interior Design Show @ Convention Centre

Sept. 24-25: Vancouver International Guitar Festival

Sept. 25: Car Free Day @ West End

Sept. 29-Oct. 9: Vancouver International Film Festival

[jminter]

Vancouver Opera's A Midsummer Night's Dream wakes in 2 weeks

In just two weeks, the Vancouver Opera 2022-2023 season continues with the company premiere of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. British composer Benjamin Britten’s romantic, atmospheric opera makes its Vancouver Opera debut for three performances starting February 11th at 7:30pm, followed by Thursday, February 16th at 7:30pm and Sunday, February 19 at 2pm. Adapted from the Shakespeare play, Britten’s Dream promises an evening of enchantment as some of The Bard’s most iconic and outright hilarious characters are swept up in a whimsical whirlwind of magic potions, love triangles and mistaken identities. Dream is the story of four lovers, a feuding King and Queen of the fairies, and a comedic ensemble of Mechanicals. Each group is beautifully captured by Britten’s contrasting sound worlds, resulting in an accessible operatic fairy tale complete with plenty of comedy. “Presenting this magical production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream is a thrill for us at Vancouver Opera,” said Tom Wright, Vancouver Opera General Director. “Audiences are familiar with the story and we hope that familiarity will encourage patrons to come experience this fantastical opera. In our cast for Dream we are thrilled to have a descendant of composer Benjamin Britten join our company; Spencer Britten will be singing in the role of Lysander. This is a treat for audiences to have a multi-generational connection to this production here in Vancouver.”

Conductor Jacques Lacombe makes his return to Vancouver Opera after conducting Turandot in 2017. Director Aria Umezawa makes her debut with Vancouver Opera bringing her innovative work to the Queen Elizabeth Theatre stage. Daniel Moody is cast in the role of Oberon, with his faithful servant Puck portrayed by Kunji Ikeda. Magali Simard-Galdes is Tytania, Queen of the Faeries. The four lovers are Spencer Britten as Lysander, Clarence Frazer as Demetrius, Jonelle Sills as Helena, and Hillary Tufford as Hermia. Royal Court members include Neil Craighead as Theseus and Stephanie Tritchew as Hippolyta. Peter McGillivray plays Bottom, who becomes entangled with Tytania as she falls under a love spell. Fellow Mechanicals include Ian Cleary as Snout, Jason Cook as Starveling, Luka Kawabata as Quince, Peter Monaghan as Snug and Asitha Tennekoon as Flute. For a deeper look at the composer and work, on February 2nd the Vancouver Public Library (VPL) and Vancouver Opera are presenting the second instalment of Opera Adventures.  Dreaming Wide Awake: Benjamin Britten’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream is a free event allowing audiences to learn about the Vancouver Opera production.  Visit the VPL Central Branch Level 8 from 6:30pm for an evening of performances and presentations by the artists and experts who make Vancouver’s opera scene come to life exploring the life and musical influences of the composer, Benjamin Britten. Vancouver Opera’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream runs at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre; February 11 & 16 at 7:30pm and February 19 at 2pm. Find tickets online at vancouveropera.ca Performances are sung in English with English SURTITLES™ projected above the stage. Read the full article

[rabbitcruiser]

Leaning In

What do you think about my pic?