RESOURCE CENTRE

The Resource Centre is composed of a library and archives and is open to all members of VIVO MEDIA ARTS CENTRE.

The Library

The Library houses Western Canada's foremost collection of artists' videotapes. Spanning over 25 years of production, it has over 2500 video titles reflecting the rich history of video art in Canada and abroad. It is complimented by a reference library which includes books, periodicals, directories, photographs, audio tapes, special collections and producers' documentation. While the primary focus is on Canadian artists, artists and video centres from around the world are well represented.

The Archives

The Archives document the activities of VIVO since its beginning in 1973, as well as individuals and organizations who have donated their collections to the Society.

Conservation and Affiliations

In addition to actively updating and managing the collection through new acquisitions, the Resource Centre also carries on conservation and restoration programs. The Resource Centre is affiliated with the Canadian Museums Association, the Archives Association of British Columbia, and the Moving Images and Sound Archives Association.

Public Access

Most materials in the Resource Centre are available to all VIVO members. Exceptions exist where access would damage the materials. For example, all 1/2" reel to reel videotapes must be restored and transferred to new formats before viewing. Currently all request for access must be made by appointment. Hours of access and appointments can be made through the Operations and Facilities Coordinator.

Viewing Room

The Viewing Room has VHS, DVD and 3/4" playback facilities, and is free to the public for in-house viewing only. Researchers, curators and educators interested in public screenings of the material must check with the Distribution Coordinator to verify the type of public exhibition rights available for a particular work. Video Out International Distribution handles all the works in the Library. For more information, please contact Jennifer Fisher, Distribution Coordinator at Video Out.

Special Collections

We encourage the deposit of Special Collections of print and video material. Current collections include Women in Focus, Burnaby Art Gallery, Gayble Vision, Vancouver Status of Women and Metro Media. Any organization or individual with a significant collection of independent video interested in donating to the Society should contact the Distribution Coordinator.