Due to essential maintenance work, the library website, databases, and some catalogue features will not be available from 7pm on Saturday to 9am on Sunday. We apologise for any inconvenience.

Joint Catalogue & Database Search

Biography & Genealogy

Available at VPL branches
Paid for by VPL

A popular database for genealogical research. Highlights include images and indexes to U.K. and U.S. census records, 1780-1837 baptism and marriage records for the greater London area, and much more.

Access: Central and branch libraries only

Library Card and PIN needed

Reference resources for finding biographical information on scientists, musicians, literary figures, athletes and much more. A subcollection of the Gale Virtual Reference Library.

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Library Card and PIN needed

Indexes biographies for over 16 million people from the beginning of time through the present. Each citation provides the biographee's name, birth and death years, the source publication, publisher, year published, and miscellaneous notes.
Tutorial

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Library Card and PIN needed
Paid for by VPL

Provides biographical and bibliographical information on modern authors. Includes authors from around the world whose works have been translated into English or published in the United States. Information provided for each author includes personal data, career details, awards, works in progress, and more.

This database has a limited number of simultaneous users. If you have trouble accessing or receive an error message please try again later.

Sample Searches

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Available via the Internet

Explore the history of Canada's inhabitants,and their culture through the Dictionary of Canadian Biography Online (Covers the years 1000-1920).  Research people who played an important role in the formation of what is now Canada.

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Due to provincial funding cuts, we have cancelled several electronic resources. Can’t find what you need? Ask a Librarian or try our list of alternate resources.

Electronic resources are restricted by license agreements to Vancouver Public Library card holders and to on-site users for purposes of research and private study. Commercial use and systematic downloading, copying or distributing of information are expressly prohibited. Users are individually responsible for compliance with these terms.

Key to Availability and Login Requirements

Check to the left of the database title to see where you can access this database and what login information is required.

Library Card and PIN needed Library Card and PIN needed
Available at VPL branches Available at VPL branches
Available via the Internet Available via the Internet
InfoAction Contact InfoAction to pay for a search

For help with our electronic resources, email eresources@vpl.ca.

For more information, contact:
Online Information & News
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
604-331-3603
james.bond@vpl.ca