The Virtual Online Community Library (VOCaL) offers virtual access to public library services to remote Northern Ontario communities. By joining VOCaL, members can borrow books from Ontario public libraries (mailed by post), as well as download eBooks and eAudiobooks.

Borrowing books from public libraries
VOCaL members may borrow books from participating public libraries in Ontario. The VOCaL Interlibrary Loan flyer provides more information about this service. The provincial shared catalogue (VDX), which can be searched and in which you can make requests, can be accessed here. 

Downloading eBooks and eAudiobooks
Members may access OverDrive to download eBooks and eAudiobooks. (Select Service des bibliothèques de l'Ontario - Nord | Ontario Library Service - North as your library, and enter your VOCaL card number to access the collection.)

Members may also access Cantook Station to download French digital content.

• UPDATE 2020-08 - Cantook Station Update - "Please note that on November 1, 2020, the shared French content collection on Cantook Station will be updated, and will be tentatively shut down on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1." Read full message from Beth Harding. 

Joining VOCaL
If you live in one of the communities listed below, you may join VOCaL at no cost:

• Armstrong Station
• Batchewana Bay
• Grassy Narrows First Nation
• Gull Bay First Nation
• Missanabie
• Moosonee and Moose Factory
• Shining Tree
• Tilden Lake
• Upsala

Click here to register for VOCaL

The Virtual Online Community Library (VOCaL) is managed by Ontario Library Service. For inquiries, please contact us by email or by phone (1-800-387-5765).