Out on the Shelves, Vancouver's oldest and largest library dedicated to the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, is moving.
Founded in early 1980s, the volunteer-run library spent years on Davie Street until it had to relocate from Qmunity in 2016. Eventually it ended up on the second floor of the AMS Nest at UBC, a space the Out on the Shelves's president Bri Watson is thankful for, but admits is a bit out of the way.
That's why a relocation planned for later this year is such a big deal
"It's a huge move for us, now, in this moment," says Watson. "It puts us back where we should be."
The library will be moving to Granville Island, specifically a space in Malaspina Printmakers location at 1555 Duranleau St., a big blue building in the middle of the popular tourist district.
"Malaspina has been wonderful," says Watson. "For them to offer us the space and a rate that's affordable...it's a really exciting relationship."
They add that the new space will triple or quadruple the library's capacity for books and community activities.
After spending time away from Vancouver's core, Watson is excited to be back in the middle of the city in a more accessible and publicly visible location.
The plan is to move in early September. However, because Out on the Shelves is completely volunteer-run the timeline could change. Watson notes the organization is looking for new volunteers and is fundraising.
What goes on at Out on the Shelves
For more than 40 years, Out on the Shelves has provided literature, cultural material and a safe space for members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Along with its book lending service, the organization hosts events and board game nights and even operates a seed library.
Watson is hopeful to see its offerings grow to reach more people in the community.
"It can feel like a really lonely existence until you do finally start to make those connections," they say.
As Out on the Shelves reaches more people, they hope the organization will be able root itself more firmly and sustainably grow over the long term.
"I'm hoping to carry the torch forward and build a stable base," says Watson.
Currently the library is open most days, at least for a couple of hours. However, as it is volunteer run, hours can change. Watson hopes that at the new location, longer hours will be possible with a larger volunteer base.
