Imagine a place where you can create, explore and bring ideas to life. This is the concept of VPL’s Inspiration Lab – a free public space to nurture the talent and creativity of our city. A hub for learning and experimenting with traditional, digital and new media: VPL’s Inspiration Lab will be an incubator – a place where the next generation of Vancouver’s digital and creative community gets its start.

The Vancouver Public Library Foundation needs your help to bring the Inspiration Lab to life.  Fundraising efforts have begun with a  goal to raise $500,000.   Click here to  help.

From aspiring young techies and new business innovators to budding artists and storytellers of all ages, VPL’s Inspiration Lab will provide an open space with access to technology and programs that enable creativity and new ideas.  Find out more about the Inspiration Lab here.

12,000 users will access the equipment for content creation and editing annually, on average for 2-hour sessions

140 technology programs and training opportunities annually will reach 1,400 participants

2 week-long intensive programs for up to 10 participants each will deliver immersive experiences

RATIO is proud to lead the creative design for the Inspiration Lab. RATIO, in consultation with library staff, has helped to define and refine the new Inspiration Lab space while maintaining a cohesive link to the existing library architecture designed by renowned architect, Moshe Safdie.

The Inspiration Lab will be on the 2nd floor and approximately 6000 square feet.  The design will connect this new space to the existing library in a respectful and innovative way.

The Inspiration Lab will feature:

Recording studios and editing workstations for video and sound

Digitization tools to preserve and share stories

Workshops, classes and lectures in areas such as digital and emerging media with local technology partners

Opportunities to learn from Experts in Residence at the library