“The West Vancouver Memorial Library (WVML) has been a proud and enthusiastic supporter of NewtoBC since its inception in 2012. As a public library, our mission is to create a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive environment for all members of our community. The Library Champions Project (LCP) aligns perfectly with this mission by helping to spread awareness about the Library while amplifying our role as a space for learning, connection, and accessibility,” writes Kate of WVML.
What is the Library Champions Project?
The Library Champions Project is a community engagement initiative that trains volunteers, often from diverse cultural backgrounds, to promote library services and resources within their communities. Through training sessions, participants develop communication, leadership, and outreach skills while learning about the library’s programs, including language learning, employment support, and digital literacy. In turn, they share this knowledge with friends, family, and community members, helping to close information gaps and encourage use of library services. The project not only strengthens connections between libraries and communities but also nurtures inclusion and lifelong learning.
Empowering Volunteers Through Training
“One of the most valuable aspects of the LCP is its ability to foster deep and lasting relationships between participants and the Library. The impact of LCP goes well beyond its structured timeline. Many Library Champions remain engaged with WVML long after their official involvement, frequently returning to explore resources, attend events, and introduce their friends and family to the Library’s many offerings. In doing so, they continue to serve as ambassadors, helping to connect more people to the library’s evolving services.”
Explore WVML’s Diverse Services
“Libraries are constantly adapting to meet the changing needs of their communities, offering a diverse array of programs, technology, and learning opportunities. However, many community members remain unaware of the full range of resources available to them. The Library Champions Project plays a crucial role in addressing this challenge by developing knowledgeable, skilled advocates who can effectively share their experiences and insights within their own communities. By doing so, the program enhances accessibility and ensures that more individuals, particularly newcomers, feel empowered to take advantage of everything their local library has to offer.”
Such services include:
- World Languages – WVML offers world language books, DVDs, newspapers and magazines in over 40 languages.
- English Language Learning Programs – WVML has a selection of events, resources, and materials for English language learners.
- Events and Programs – WVML offers story times, resume workshops, creative workshops, and more.
- Databases and Online Resources – WVML offers a wealth of high-quality resources that the Library has subscribed to on your behalf, and the top open access journal indexes.
- Online Courses – WVML library membership offers you to get many courses for free!
- Recording Studio – WVML offers a Control Room for recording podcasts, audiobooks, and more; and a Live Room for recording a range of musical instruments and ensembles.
From Volunteer to Careers: The Lasting Impact of LCP
“Beyond its contributions to community awareness and engagement, the program has also proven to be a launchpad for personal and professional growth. Many former Library Champions have gone on to pursue careers in the library field, enrolling in Library Technician programs or earning Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) degrees. This demonstrates the program’s lasting impact—not only in strengthening libraries and their communities but also in inspiring individuals to pursue meaningful careers in the field of information and community service.”
Interested in a Library Career? Here’s Where to Start
Those interested in a career as a Librarian can find information about the career and programs through a few avenues:
- WorkBC – offers a career overview of library jobs including salary, educational requirements and more.
- EducationPlannerBC – A personalized, interactive education and career planning tool that allows users to choose an area of interest and easily navigate different paths.
- British Columbia Library Association (BCLA) – A non-profit, cross-sectorial association that furthers the interests of libraries and represents individual and institutional members.
A Confidence-Building and Community-Building Experience
“Library Champions consistently report that their involvement is an incredibly positive experience. Many describe it as a confidence-building opportunity that enhances their communication skills, introduces them to public speaking, and strengthens their sense of belonging in the community. Additionally, the program provides a meaningful platform to meet like-minded individuals, develop friendships, and build social networks that extend far beyond their time as Library Champions.”
Join the Library Champions Project Today!
If you are interested in volunteering as a Library Champion with the West Vancouver Memorial Library, please email us and we will let you know when our next intake is.
