Originally issued by Richmond Public Library on May 12, 2026
Richmond Public Library (RPL) is celebrating 50 Year of Stories marking five decades of connection, curiosity, learning, and serving the Richmond community.
The library is where generations of stories have gathered and continue to gather. Every visit, every book borrowed; every program is part of a larger story still unfolding. From May 13 until June 28, the library invites Richmond to special programs, community events, and the opportunity for residents to reflect on the role the library has played in their lives.
Since opening its doors in 1976, RPL has grown alongside the city, evolving from a traditional library service into a dynamic community hub that welcomes hundreds of thousands of visits each year across four locations, outreach services, and digital spaces.
Today, the library has just over 535,560 items with an average of 22,005 digital and 38,128 physical items circulating per week.
“Over the past 50 years, Richmond Public Library has continually evolved to serve our community in new and innovative ways,” said Denise Hui, Library Board Chair. “As we celebrate this milestone, we are also looking forward, continuing to expand access, champion intellectual freedom, and create welcoming spaces where everyone in Richmond can discover, connect, and grow.”
From supporting newcomers and lifelong learners to providing welcoming community spaces and equitable access to information, RPL has remained committed to helping Richmond residents thrive.
“Richmond Public Library has been part of the fabric of this community for five decades,” said Susan Walters, Chief Librarian. “Libraries are more than buildings and collections; they are places where people connect, explore new ideas, access trusted information, and feel a sense of belonging. This anniversary is both a celebration of our history and an opportunity to look ahead to the future of library service in Richmond.”
Over the years, the library has evolved to meet the changing needs of a growing and diverse city. RPL is focused on strengthening community connections, removing barriers to access, fostering safe and inclusive spaces, and creating meaningful opportunities for learning, creativity, and dialogue.
It was in 1976 that Richmond Council approved the establishment of the Richmond Public Library independent of the FVRL. Richmond Council, headed by Mayor Gill Blair, approved $1 million for the expansion of the Brighouse Centre Library as Richmond’s 1979 Centennial Project.
What began as a place to borrow books has become an essential community service offering programs, technology access, cultural experiences, digital resources, outreach services, and spaces for collaboration and discovery.
As part of the celebration, RPL will share stories and memories from residents across Richmond, highlighting the lasting impact libraries have on individuals, families, and communities.
Residents are encouraged to visit yourlibrary.ca/rpl50 for anniversary event details and the opportunity to share their story.
About Richmond Public Library
Richmond Public Library has proudly served the Richmond, BC community since 1976. The library’s goals include low-barrier accessibility to materials, experiences, and programs; facilitating safe spaces for dialogue; and meeting the needs of Richmond’s growing and diverse community. RPL operates four locations and two book dispensers across Richmond, as well as the mobile RPL to Go service.