VPL at Home - Vaughan Public Libraries

Welcome to your digital library

Virtual What's On

Your monthly guide to virtual programs and special events.

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Stories, songs, rhymes, and early literacy activities that you can enjoy at home. New videos will be added regularly.

Mandarin Storytime - YouTube Playlist

Virtual Baby Storytime - YouTube Playlist

Virtual Little Explorers Storytime - YouTube Playlist

Do you need help navigating the site, or are you looking for a recommendation? We’re here to help! Our team of librarians is on hand to quickly deal with your queries, whether you are looking for something to educate, entertain or inspire you.

Ask Us!

Ideas and tips for parents and guardians with little ones. Learn something new to entertain, educate, and excite your little ones at home. New activities are added weekly!

Babies & Preschool - YouTube Playlist

Baby Activities and Songs:

Silly Activities (114 KB)

Mirror Play (135 KB)

Peek-a-boo Games (116 KB)

Movement Activities (121 KB)

Word and Naming Activities (143 KB)

Toddler & Preschool STEAM Activities:

Butterflies! (450 KB)

Letter Fun (670 KB)

Shape Activities (356 KB)

Let’s Paint! (341 KB)

Science Activities (411 KB)

1000 Books Before Kindergarten

The concept is simple, the rewards are priceless. Read a book (any book) to your newborn, infant, toddler and/or preschooler. The goal is to read 1,000 books (yes, you can repeat books) before your little one starts kindergarten.

Downloads & Digital

Explore the wide variety of digital resources available to you. Access eBooks and eAudiobooks, films and television, magazines and newspapers, music, newsletters, mobile apps, and more.

Articles & Research

We subscribe to a number of high-quality electronic databases providing a wealth of information on a wide range of subjects. Explore categories such as the arts, business, French, medicine, history, learning, news, science, and more.

Apply for a temporary digital library card

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Virtual What's On

Your monthly guide to virtual programs and special events.

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Explore Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics concepts through guided, hands-on activities you can enjoy at home. New videos will be added regularly.

STEAM / Educational Videos - YouTube Playlist

Harry Potter Activities (1,358 KB)

Wet and Wild Activities (1,127 KB)

Letter to Santa Template English (1,174 KB)

Letter to Santa Template French (1,270 KB)

Calming Activites (155 KB)

Crossword and Answers (174 KB)

Erupting Soap (381 KB)

Floating Water (178 KB)

Junior Word Search (146 KB)

Intermediate Word Search (201 KB)

Magnet Painting (326 KB)

Rainbow Sock Bubbles (180 KB)

Ordinal Numbers 1st to 31st Cards Template (884 KB)

Halloween Math Tangrams Images (381 KB)

Halloween Math Line of Symmetry Images (1810 KB)

Estimation Jar 100s Chart (317 KB)

Codebreaking - The Pigpen Cipher (225 KB)

Cracker Math: Shapes to Measure (62 KB)

Tangram Template (198 KB)

Ollie Colouring Sheets (1087 KB)

VPL Colouring Book (4728 KB)

Calendar Math Template (185 KB)

Binary Bracelets (492 KB)

Elements of a Story Game (31 KB)

Neuroscience for Kids 2-Point Discrimination Tests (231 KB)

Create a Constellation (383 KB)

Mystery Bag Challenges (78 KB)

Spooky Campfire Story 1 (105 KB)

Spooky Campfire Story 2 (100 KB)

Spooky Campfire Story 3 (97 KB)

Make a Boardgame Kit (349 KB)

Comic Strip Storyboard (338 KB)

Put your thinking caps on and get ready to pit your wits against various challenges to escape! For skill levels ranging from children to adults. New rooms added monthly.

Digital Escape Rooms 1, 2, 3 - Creepy houses and a Japanese adventure (96 KB)

Digital Escape Rooms 4, 5, 6 - Pokemon, Hunger Games and Kelley Armstrong (105 KB)

Digital Escape Rooms 7, 8, 9 - The Bad Guys, Simon Snow, and world travel (102 KB)

Digital Escape Rooms 10, 11, 12 - Mystery Mayhem, the Enchanted Library, and Food (109 KB)

Digital Escape Rooms 13, 14, 15 - Halloween, Magic, and a Winter Wonderland (99 KB)

Digital Escape Rooms 16, 17, 18 - Get Lost in a Book, Harry Potter, and Lunar New Year (104 KB)

Digital Escape Rooms 19, 20, 21 - Sauver la bibliothèque, April Fools, and Lost in Space (229 KB)

Digital Escape Rooms 22, 23 – Games and Nocturnal Animals (221 KB)

Ask Us!

Downloads & Digital

Explore the wide variety of digital resources available to you. Access eBooks and eAudiobooks, films and television, magazines and newspapers, music, newsletters, mobile apps, and more.

Articles & Research

Apply for a temporary digital library card

Apply Now

Virtual What's On

Your monthly guide to virtual programs and special events.

View

Ask Us!

Put your thinking caps on and get ready to pit your wits against various challenges to escape! For skill levels ranging from children to adults. New rooms added monthly.

Digital Escape Rooms 1, 2, 3 - Creepy houses and a Japanese adventure (96 KB)

Digital Escape Rooms 4, 5, 6 - Pokemon, Hunger Games and Kelley Armstrong (105 KB)

Digital Escape Rooms 7, 8, 9 - The Bad Guys, Simon Snow, and world travel (102 KB)

Digital Escape Rooms 10, 11, 12 - Mystery Mayhem, the Enchanted Library, and Food (109 KB)

Digital Escape Rooms 13, 14, 15 - Halloween, Magic, and a Winter Wonderland (99 KB)

Digital Escape Rooms 16, 17, 18 - Get Lost in a Book, Harry Potter, and Lunar New Year (104 KB)

Digital Escape Rooms 19, 20, 21 - Sauver la bibliothèque, April Fools, and Lost in Space (229 KB)

Digital Escape Rooms 22, 23 – Games and Nocturnal Animals (221 KB)

Volunteer Opportunities

If you’re interested in volunteering and helping out during these difficult times, check out some of these volunteer opportunities. Some of the organizations are asking for support specifically for the COVID-19 pandemic, so please note that some positions allow you to work from home, while others may need in-person support.

Learn More

Downloads & Digital

Explore the wide variety of digital resources available to you. Access eBooks and eAudiobooks, films and television, magazines and newspapers, music, newsletters, mobile apps, and more.

Articles & Research

Apply for a temporary digital library card

Apply Now

Virtual What's On

Your monthly guide to virtual programs and special events.

View

Helpful tech tips and recommendations for useful mobile apps, perfect for those who are looking to broaden their technological horizons.

Digital Literacy - YouTube Playlist

Ask Us!

Educational Speaker Series

Thought-provoking and educational videos on a wide variety of subject matter. This playlist consists of live recordings of some of the virtual programs hosted by Vaughan Public Libraries. Register for upcoming virtual programs on Eventbrite.

Educational Speaker Series - YouTube Playlist

Vaughan Reads

Looking for a new read but need a recommendation? Join Vince and friends as they discuss hot reads across a wide variety of genres. You will likely discover your next best read right here with Vaughan Reads.

Vaughan Reads - YouTube Playlist

Put your thinking caps on and get ready to pit your wits against various challenges to escape! For skill levels ranging from children to adults. New rooms added monthly.

Digital Escape Rooms 1, 2, 3 - Creepy houses and a Japanese adventure (96 KB)

Digital Escape Rooms 4, 5, 6 - Pokemon, Hunger Games and Kelley Armstrong (105 KB)

Digital Escape Rooms 7, 8, 9 - The Bad Guys, Simon Snow, and world travel (102 KB)

Digital Escape Rooms 10, 11, 12 - Mystery Mayhem, the Enchanted Library, and Food (109 KB)

Digital Escape Rooms 13, 14, 15 - Halloween, Magic, and a Winter Wonderland (99 KB)

igital Escape Rooms 16, 17, 18 - Get Lost in a Book, Harry Potter, and Lunar New Year (104 KB)

Digital Escape Rooms 19, 20, 21 - Sauver la bibliothèque, April Fools, and Lost in Space (229 KB)

Digital Escape Rooms 22, 23 – Games and Nocturnal Animals (221 KB)

Tech Tips Downloads

Below are a collection of useful Tech Tips to guide you through some of our digital resources.

How to connect to the internet (812 KB)

How to watch Instagram stories (432 KB)

How to Download the VPL mobile app (588 KB)

Build a DIY Vision Board (413 KB)

Downloads & Digital

Explore the wide variety of digital resources available to you. Access eBooks and eAudiobooks, films and television, magazines and newspapers, music, newsletters, mobile apps, and more.

Articles & Research

Apply for a temporary digital library card

Apply Now

Virtual What's On

Your monthly guide to virtual programs and special events.

View

Avez-vous besoin d’aide pour naviguer notre site Web, ou peut-être cherchez-vous des recommandations de lecture? Nous sommes là pour vous aider. Notre équipe est prête à vous répondre, que vous cherchiez quelque chose pour vous éduquer, vous divertir ou vous inspirer.

Ask Us!

Stories, songs, rhymes, and early literacy activities that you can enjoy at home. New videos will be added regularly.

Des histoires, chansons, comptines et des activités pour encourager la littératie, que vous pouvez apprécier de chez vous. Des nouvelles vidéos seront ajoutées régulièrement.

French Storytime - YouTube Playlist

French Activities - YouTube Playlist

French Preschool Activities

June French Preschool Activities (853 KB)

May French Preschool Activities (936 KB)

April French Preschool Activities (359 KB)

December French Preschool Activities (298 KB)

November French Preschool Activities (269 KB)

Downloads & Digital

Explore the wide variety of digital resources available to you. Access eBooks and eAudiobooks, films and television, magazines and newspapers, music, newsletters, mobile apps, and more.

Articles & Research

Apply for a temporary digital library card | Faites une demande de carte de bibliothèque numérique temporaire

If you don't already have a library card you can now apply online for a temporary library card. The library card number that you will receive by email will allow you to borrow eBooks, eAudiobooks, and access digital resources.

Si vous n’avez pas encore une carte de bibliothèque vous pouvez maintenant faire une demande en ligne pour une carte temporaire. Le numéro de carte de bibliothèque que vous allez recevoir par courriel va vous permettre d’emprunter des livres numériques, livres numériques audio et aussi d’avoir accès à d’autres ressources en ligne.

Apply Now

Vaughan Business

Visit the brand-new City of Vaughan Business website and learn why Vaughan is a dream place for business, where entrepreneurship, business, tourism, art and culture can prosper and grow.

Digital Boost: Vaughan Small Business Resiliency Program

Are you a local small business owner with a brick-and-mortar location? Digital Boost supports local small business owners in finding new opportunities during the COVID-19 crisis and beyond.

Vaughan Business Action Plan

The City has launched the Vaughan Business Action Plan, which includes a series of measures to safeguard the local economy and protect businesses, consumers and all citizens.

York Region Business Directory

A new and improved York Region Business Directory that includes an interactive map.

BDC Free webinars for businesses and entrepreneurs

A selection of free webinars packed with real life examples, these webinars will help you make better business decisions and achieve your business goals.

COVID-19: Business Resources

To assist businesses dealing with COVID-19, Vaughan Chamber of Commerce (VCC) created a resource page which contains all the information on business supports announced by the Federal, Provincial and Municipal levels of Government.

COVID-19 Pandemic Preparedness Toolkit for Ontario Businesses

The Ontario Chamber of Commerce team, in collaboration with Hicks Morley, have put together a toolkit to help support businesses be prepared for any human-resources or operational-related disruptions.

The Government of Canada's Initiatives for Canadian Businesses

The Government of Canada is taking strong action to help Canadian businesses as COVID-19 is affecting them, their employees and their families. Four key considerations for businesses include 1. Support for employees 2. Support for businesses 3. Business travel and events 4. Business in international markets.

Small Business Help Centre by CFIB

The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) set up the Small Business Help Centre to provide expert advice to guide businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Digital Resources

Brainfuse JobNow

Brainfuse JobNow provides access to live resume experts, interview coaches and job coaches as well as resume templates, interview tips, skills surfer and more resources for job seekers.

LinkedIn Learning

LinkedIn Learning (previously called Lynda.com) gives users free access to thousands of video tutorial courses with a focus on such areas as technology, software development, business skills, project management as well as creative skills like animation and video editing. The courses are taught by recognized industry experts who will guide you along in learning the skills you need for your personal and professional development. How to use LinkedIn Learning

More Business & Careers Resources

Vaughan Public Libraries subscribe to a number of high-quality electronic databases providing a wealth of information on a wide range of subjects!

Lifelong Learning

Looking to learn something new or pick up a new hobby. Check out the resources we have available.

Apply for a temporary digital library card

Apply Now

Ask Us!

Vaughan Public Libraries Service Info

Current Service Update

As of March 21^st, masks are optional at all VPL locations except Mackenzie Health Vaughan Library. Please continue to self-screen for symptoms and stay home if you feel unwell. Maple Library remains closed due to ongoing renovations but will be opening soon this Spring.

Recent services that were made available again to the community include the re-opening of our and group study rooms as well as more of our creation spaces (such as the Green Room and Recording Studio).

If you have any questions about library services, need help finding materials or are looking for a recommendation, we can help!

Visit https://www.vaughanpl.info/ask_us or call 905-653-7323 during operating hours.

A special message from Rose Savage, Vaughan Public Library Board Chair.

Since the onset of the pandemic, everyone at VPL has worked incredibly hard to exceed your expectations and maintain exceptionally high levels of service. We know how important our libraries are to you, which is why I’m proud to share with you a one-year summary of our response and achievements during the pandemic.

Maple Library Update:

Due to ongoing renovation, all services at Maple Library has been temporarily suspended until the grand re-opening on April 26^th, 2022.

Please see the document below for full details.

Maple Library Closure (50 KB)

How VPL helps

Accessibility at VPL

We've eliminated fines

Downloadable PDFs

First 100 Days (3812 KB)

Second 100 Days (4517 KB)

Third 100 Days (4129 KB)

Greetings from Rose Savage (288 KB)

Apply for a temporary digital library card

Apply Now

Ask Us!

Government and Health Resources

The Canadian Public Health page for COVID-19

The Canadian page will contain the federal response to COVID-19, including information about federal cases of this virus, federal borders and travel, and financial stimulus packages. This will also have a breakdown of how many cases Canada has confirmed so far, and a date and time that the page was last updated.

Ontario Ministry of Health – 2019 Novel Coronavirus

The Government of Ontario 2019 Novel Coronavirus page includes links on how to access Telehealth Ontario, Tips on Self-Assessment, self-isolation, closures, and case information relating to the Province of Ontario.

York Region Public Health COVID-19

York Region Public Health’s COVID-19 page provides the latest updates related to COVID-19 in York Region, including cases in the region and contact information for York Region Public Health.

COVID-19 Vaccination Clinics

Get up to date information for booking vaccinations in York Region as they become available, including eligible age groups, current hot-spots, and a list of regional and pharmacy clinics booking appointments for the COVID-19 vaccination.

City of Vaughan COVID-19

This page includes information about City of Vaughan services that are running or are suspended during this time.

Mental Health Support

Government of Ontario – COVID-19: Support for People

The Government of Ontario lists various financial, mental health and other supports that are available during COVID-19.

ConnexOntario

The ConnexOntario database contains government-funded mental health and addiction treatment services available in Ontario.

Kids Help Phone

The Kids Help Phone website allows you to search for physical or virtual support programs and services available to kids, teens and young adults across Canada.

Centre for Mental Health and Addiction:
Mental Health and the COVID-19 Pandemic

CAMH has developed several tools that can be used from home to help cope with the increased stress and anxiety levels during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Business and Employment Resources

Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan

Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan contains a list of benefits for individuals, including information on applying for Employment Insurance or the Canada Emergency Response Benefit, as well as support for small businesses.

Government of Ontario Newsroom

For a list of press briefings put out by the Ontario Government, including financial responses to COVID-19 and other notable government actions, visit the Ontario Newsroom page.

COVID-19 Pandemic Preparedness Toolkit for Ontario Businesses

COVID-19: Business Resources

Other Resources

WHO (World Health Organization) page for COVID-19

This page includes situation reports regarding the global impact of COVID-19, including the WHO COVID-19 Myth Busters page that debunk commonly spread myths regarding COVID-19, including misinformation about how COVID-19 can and cannot be spread.

Microsoft BING COVID-19 Tracker Map

An interactive map that includes the number of confirmed Active, Fatal, and Recovered cases of COVID-19 worldwide.

Downloadable PDFs

VPL COVID-19 Pathfinder (303 KB)

Apply for a temporary digital library card

Apply Now

Children’s COVID-19 Vaccine Information

Booking and Information

York region children vaccine booking and information

Book an appointment for your child in York Region, see the latest information on eligibility for the COVID-19 vaccination, and connect with Access York for live help.

Vaccines for children COVID-19 (Government of Canada)

The government of Canada has the latest information on approved vaccines for children and youth. Find out why vaccinating your child is important, information on vaccine studies for children and youth, and where to book your vaccine appointment for your child Canada-wide.

Pre/Post Vaccination Tips for Parents

Preparing for your child’s vaccine

York Region has a full outline on what to expect before, during, and after your child’s COVID-19 vaccination.

Pain reduction for kids and teens

Produced by the Canadian Medical Association, this PDF quick guide provides parents with practical tips on how to reduce pain pre/post-vaccination shot.

Preparing kids for vaccines

Produced by the Government of Canada, this PDF quick guide gives parents insight on how to prepare their kids for vaccination shots with the "CARD" (Comfort, Ask, Relax, Distract) system.

More information

Book an information consultation with SickKids

Have more questions and want to talk to someone? You can book a call with the experts at The Hospital for SickKids (SickKids) to address your child’s specific needs.

COVID-19 vaccines for kids: What you need to know (Mayo Clinic)

Produced by the Mayo Clinic, this link provides a Q&A style resource for parents.

Downloadable PDFs

Children's COVID-19 Vaccine Pathfinder (83 KB)

Apply for a temporary digital library card

Apply Now