The Learnary Shop is Closing
We began in 2018 with a mission to offer affordable, multidisciplinary learning opportunities in east Vancouver; to be a social hub for nourishing intergenerational community connection; and to celebrate curiosity. We are proud of the ways we have brought this mission to life. While it is time to move on from running the shop, the Society will continue to reimagine how to fulfill our mission in new ways in the future.
We are incredibly proud of creating this beautiful storefront, which has been loved so well by the community. We have forged partnerships, learned together, had many wonderful conversations around the curiosity table, and shared so many beautiful little moments of recognition and laughter. We started this social enterprise with the hope of doing something different within a capitalist framework, and we have learned so much about how that does and doesn’t work. Unfortunately, due to the combined difficulties of small business in today’s economy, the pandemic, and long Covid, we are just not able to make the project financially viable.
Above all else, we are so very grateful for the volunteers, board members, and staff - past and present - who have shaped this space. As well, we are thankful to everyone, young, old and in-between, who has come to the Learnary to share in spontaneous conversation, learn something new, share part of themselves, and deepen their curiosity. Together, we have made The Learnary what it is - a place of connection, where everyone belongs.
The storefront is currently closed from August 1st to 25th, reopening on Monday the 26th. In September, we will host opportunities to share stories and say goodbye.
If you are wondering how you can support us in these last weeks, we do have ongoing financial obligations, so please come by, in person or online, and stock up on treasures and gifts!
With gratitude,
Sam and Surya
About us
The Learnary is a non-profit social enterprise dedicated to building community, supporting intergenerational learning, and generating curiosity.
We think the world is a fascinating place with so much potential. We know that no matter our age or the experiences we’ve had, we all have something to learn and something to share. We are so happy to learn and share with you.
Our model means that all the profits we make in our store or through our activities go back into the organization to support our mandate.
If you want to learn more or get involved, come by our store or send us an email. We would love to hear from you!