Plan A Visit
The Centre is currently closed to the public until further notice due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Due to COVID restrictions, the Centre is not available to offer in-person tours. A virtual tour of the space will be available soon for self-guided tours that can be done remotely.
Survivors and their families are encouraged to make an appointment for research support.
HOW TO GET HERE
Walking: The Centre is located between two landmark buildings: the Irving K. Barber Learning Centre, a large glass-fronted building on East Boulevard, and Koerner Library on Main Mall. The entrance to the Centre is just opposite the west side of the Barber Centre. When walking from the Barber Centre towards Koerner Library, facing the clock tower, the Centre is to the left. Please note the main entrance faces the Barber Centre.
Driving: Drive to campus via 10th, 16th or 4th Avenue, or from the SW Marine Dr. Rose Garden Parkade (marked on the map above). This is the closest parkade with an elevator. The North Parkade, across from the Barber Centre, is an alternate parkade. The surface lot near the School of Music has accessible parking as well.
Transit: Public Transit is the most popular way to get to and from campus. 15 bus routes link UBC to Metro Vancouver, along with two on-campus routes to serve the on-campus community. Plan your trip or look at a map of transit routes.
Accessibility: UBC provides an Accessibility shuttle which stops just in front of the Centre. Visit their website for shuttle stops and hours.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is there an admission fee?
Admission to the Centre is free. You are welcome to make a donation to the Centre, but there is no obligation.
Do you offer drop-in tours?
Not at this time. All tours must be booked in advance and are subject to availability. Contact us to schedule a visit for a guided visit, class visit or other group.
How long to should I plan to spend at the Centre?
The length of time visitors spend in the Centre varies greatly however, the suggested timeframe is 30-45 minutes to explore the exhibitions, interactive timeline, and other activities.
Are there any age restrictions?
The Centre is open to everyone. Children of all ages enjoy the activity corner in the exhibition level which features books about residential schools, puppets, coloring books and activities aimed at the K-12 age group. Stop by the reception desk to receive a decal or stamp.
Can I bring my service dog?
Service dogs are allowed within the building and exhibition area. Water for service dogs is provided next to the upper and lower entrances.
Is the Centre accessible?
Yes. The Centre has a wheelchair accessible elevator and universal washrooms on the main level.
Do you provide cultural support?
We have a private Elders’ room at the Centre and can arrange to have counselors from the Indian Residential School Survivors’ Society available to meet with Survivors and their families.
We have a small amount of medicines on hand for those wanting to use them, such as sweetgrass, sage, tobacco and cedar. If you are wanting to smudge, brush or use other medicines in the space, please contact the reception desk.
Can someone help me find information about a particular school or person?
We know this research can be difficult and are here to support those doing research. Staff are available for one-on-one consultations and reference requests. For more information on research requests or to book an appointment, please call 604-822-6941 or email reference.irshdc@ubc.ca.