Books are only the beginning! Your ORL library card opens the door to all kinds of things for kids to watch, discover, explore, and enjoy. You can stream favourite shows, borrow a kit that turns an evening outside into a wildlife adventure, or even ask library staff to help find the perfect next read.
Not sure where to start? Here are three awesome ORL resources for kids that are well worth checking out.
1. Watch: Kanopy Kids
Looking for something fun, kid-friendly, and worth watching? Kanopy Kids offers unlimited, ad-free streaming of movies, shows, stories, and educational favourites for children. The collection includes trusted names such as Sesame Street, PBS Kids, and Weston Woods, with programming that supports early literacy, STEAM learning, language learning, empathy, critical thinking, and more.
And that unlimited part really does mean unlimited. Kanopy Kids viewing doesn’t use your regular Kanopy tickets, so kids can explore the collection, discover new favourites, and watch that one beloved episode for the 14th time. All you need is your ORL library card and a free Kanopy account.
2. Explore: Borrow a BatPack Kit
Bats are weird, wonderful…and surprisingly easy to find when you have the right equipment.
The ORL’s BatPack Kit gives families a chance to head outside and learn more about the bats living in our communities. Instead of simply watching the sky at dusk and wondering what’s flying overhead, kids can use the kit to turn a night outdoors into a hands-on learning experience.
It’s part science, part wildlife watching, and a pretty great excuse to stay up late!
The BatPack Kit is part of the ORL’s Library of Things, where your library card can help your family try new activities, explore the natural world, experiment with technology, and learn something together without buying all the equipment first.
3. Read: We’ll Find Your Next Favourite!
Sometimes the hardest part of reading is figuring out what to read next. That’s where Kids & Teens What to Enjoy Next comes in. Tell ORL staff a little about the books, authors, genres, movies, games, or other things you enjoy, and we’ll put together personalized recommendations just for you.
It’s perfect for kids who have finished a favourite series and don’t know where to go next, reluctant readers who haven’t quite found their kind of book yet, or voracious readers who are always looking for something new, like, yesterday.
Discover Your Library
These are just three of the ways an ORL library card can help kids follow their curiosity. From digital collections and online resources to hands-on kits, in-branch programs, reading recommendations, and, of course, shelves and shelves of books, there’s always something new to discover at the ORL.
Need More Help?
Call us at 1-844-649-8127 or email help@orl.bc.ca. Please include as many details as you can about your question, account, or device. This helps us support you more quickly and accurately.
Library card expired? Reach out to your local branch or visit eRenew to renew your membership online. It’s quick and easy.
