Library + Archives

ECU Collections

Our collections are as creative and eclectic as our community. You’ll find books, journals, streaming films, artists’ books and more.

There are tools for deep research and resources to inspire new ideas. Use them for research, discovery or inspiration. From print to digital to the unexpected, there’s a lot to explore.

A man stands in front of an exhibition wall displaying a curated collection of book covers and posters. The wall features bold text reading 'WHAT if WE DESIGNED novels,' encouraging viewers to reflect on the intersection of design and literature. The arrangement includes various artistic elements, such as colorful book covers and abstract designs, fostering inspiration and creative thinking.

Print + Media Collections

Our print and media collections primarily focus on contemporary art, media and design, including art history, critical and cultural studies, design research and other creative practices.

Media

Our media collection consists of DVDs, films, videos and sound recordings. There are instructional and documentary videos, feature films, independent and experimental films, animation, video art and new media works.

Physical media items include:

Print

Our print collection contains a ton of neat stuff – and we are constantly adding new items. Our collection focuses on supporting research, creative practice and curricular activities occurring across the university with a focus on art, design and media related works.

Here are some examples of what you’ll find:

If you have any suggestions or requests for purchases, we welcome you to either email us your requests, or fill out the Suggest a Purchase form below!

Suggest a Purchase

LIbrary General Suggestion

Emily Carr University of Art + Design collects personal information in accordance with sections 26(c) and (e) of the B.C. Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA). The information collected by this form is intended for administrative and/or service improvement purposes. The information collected will be used only for the specified purpose(s) and will not be shared with any third parties without proper authorization. If you have any concerns or questions regarding the privacy of your personal information, please contact our Privacy Office.

eResources

Our library offers a wide range of electronic resources — from academic articles and eBooks, to high resolution images, blockbuster movies and obscure commercials. We also link to a curated list of open access (free!) databases. Some platforms can be a bit difficult to navigate, so scroll down for tips on finding what you need.

Having Access Issues?

Have a look at our Sign-In Issues section.

eResources

The library provides access to many online resources to support learning at ECU. Defined as a “searchable electronic index of published, reliable resources”, the ECU Library features a carefully selected array of databases that cover a broad range of subjects, from general humanities to specialized material.

Accessing eBooks

Most ebooks may be found and accessed from General Search. To access them, ensure you are logged in using your MYEC account credentials. You may be prompted to log in if you haven’t yet. You may have to search for open access ebooks in their specific database.

Consult this LibGuide for more information.

Many of our eBooks are provided by EBSCO – if we have an eBook version provided through them, the record will look like this after you click into it from the results page:

Under Access options, choose EPUB full text to read in your browser with full accessibility functions. To download the full eBook (where licensed) for offline reading, you will need to opt into creating a MyEBSCO account. 

Accessing Streaming Media

We have 34 different streaming services, which range from documentary to experimental to feature length films. Many films are discoverable by using the library search function, but you can also look for titles directly in the service.

For Hollywood Blockbusters and full length animation, check:

For Documentaries, check:

For Classics, try:

Some Open Access (no login required) options include:

This list features just a few examples of what can be found in our collection!

Please note that we only use Kanopy Streaming Service to provide films requested by faculty for curricular requirements.

For resources that require a login in order to view streaming content, use your ECU credentials (the username and password you use for MYEC, email and most other ECU systems). Note that this is different from your Library account login.

Accessing Journal Articles

We have access to a wide variety of online journals. When prompted to sign in, use your ECU credentials (the username and password you use for MYEC, email and most other ECU systems). Note that this is different from your Library account login.

Archives

The ECU Archives preserves the rich history of Emily Carr University of Art + Design. It holds records from across the university, including its faculties, departments and governance. The Archives also collects personal papers from faculty, administrators and alumni, as well as materials from student, alumni and employee groups. Spanning from 1925 to the present, the collection includes publications, course calendars, photographs, videos and audio recordings — all helping to tell the story of our evolving creative community.

Visit the Archives

Special Collections

A spacious library area with rows of bookshelves filled with books, organized by categories. A student is seated at a table in the foreground, working on a laptop and surrounded by study materials. The environment is well-lit, with natural light streaming in from large windows, creating a conducive space for focused study and research.

Artists’ Books + Special Collections

A woman is seated at a table in a modern, well-lit space, carefully arranging colorful cards or tiles on the surface. She appears focused and engaged, holding a small object in one hand while sorting through the items on the table. The background features large windows, allowing natural light to illuminate the area, and other individuals can be seen working in the distance.

Research Resources

A colourful jigsaw puzzle is being assembled on a wooden table. The puzzle features vibrant and intricate details, including elements like seashells, a telescope, and celestial imagery. Several sections of the puzzle are completed, while others remain scattered around, indicating an ongoing activity. The scene suggests a relaxing and engaging pastime.

Games + Stuff

A display of sensory and neurotools items on a clear glass table in the ECU Library. The collection includes colorful objects such as a stack of wooden blocks, a blue textured ball, a set of rainbow-colored stacking rings, a fidget toy with popping bubbles, and labeled containers for items like 'Spin' and 'Sure Ring.' These tools are designed to support focus, relaxation, and sensory engagement.

Neurotools

A mobile cart in the Emily Carr University Library is dedicated to sustainability resources. The cart features shelves filled with books and materials on topics such as recycling, green living, climate change, and more. A sign on the side lists key themes like carbon reduction, economic transition, and sustainable design. The setting is bright and modern, with ample natural light streaming through large windows.

Sustainability Resources