West Vancouver Memorial Library


	Vision

	Our Vision expresses a broad, aspirational image of the future. The Library is recognized as the leader in navigating information, and as a dynamic space that inspires discovery and connection.

	Mission

	Our Mission defines our purpose and reason for being. The Library is open, free and welcoming to all. We connect people with ideas, information and the world of imagination. We are the cornerstone of an engaged, democratic and literate community.

	Values

	Our Values describe the traits that represent our highest priorities and deeply held driving forces. Our library family, which includes the Library Board, Foundation, Friends, Volunteers and Staff, is guided by these values: Intellectual Freedom We uphold free and equal access to ideas and information. We champion literacy in all its forms. Excellence We are dedicated to knowledgeable, friendly and helpful service. We pursue thoughtful innovation, respecting our valued traditions. Inclusiveness We respect one another and promote a culture of inclusion. Integrity We are dedicated to honesty and openness in all we do. We are accountable to the community. Sustainability We manage our resources responsibly to enhance our financial stability, social goodwill and environmental leadership.

	Library News

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	The West Vancouver Memorial Library as a Safe Harbour

	In November, 2009 the West Vancouver Memorial Library became the first Safe Harbour location on the North Shore. The Safe Harbour sticker on the front door of the Library formalizes our role in the community as a temporary refuge. It indicates that someone who has experienced mistreatment or is upset will receive a helping hand such as a place to sit, a telephone to use, and information about how to seek further assistance. Our participation in the Safe Harbour Program also ensures our commitment to equitable treatment for everyone who visits the Library and the value of diversity.

	Join our Team

	Careers with the District of West Vancouver.

	Library History

	West Vancouver Memorial Library was founded in 1950 as a memorial to honour those who gave their lives during the Second World War so future generations would have the freedom to pursue knowledge without let or hinderance. On display in the main hall is a stained glass window created in 1931 by the master craftsman, John Henry Dearle, the chief designer for the London firm of Morris & Co. It is a reproduction of Sir Frank Dicksee's painting, "Harmony." The window was commissioned by Henry Stone, a founder of the Vancouver Art Gallery, and his wife Beatrice Stone, as a memorial to their son, Lieut. Horace Gordon Stone, who died in active service in 1918. The Art Gallery displayed the window until the Second World War, when it was removed for safekeeping. After the war, the window was returned to Mrs. Allan S. Gentles, Lieut. Stone's sister. When the West Vancouver Memorial Library was constructed in 1950, Mrs. Gentles presented the window to the Library where it has been displayed ever since. The Book of Remembrance, known variously as the Memorial Book, the West Vancouver Memorial Book and the War Memorial Book, was illuminated by Mrs. Marion Grigsby and contains the names of all those West Vancouver residents who gave their lives in World War II. It is enshrined under glass cover in the Library entrance. The book was donated in 1950, the year the Library opened.”

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