The Library's Audiovisual Loan Service provides educational audiovisual (AV) materials covering both mental health and substance abuse issues. Titles in the collection are available in VHS and DVD formats. Some materials are for CAMH staff and other professionals, while others are for general interest audiences, families, and student presentations. To search for AV items in the Library catalogue, visit:

the AV Collection page in the Library catalogue

The links listed below will help you find information about:

How to Find an AV Title
How to Borrow AVs
Conditions of Loan
Brochure for AV Materials
Purchasing AVs
Contact Information and Address

Please note: Due to licensing and copyright restrictions, some AV materials can only be loaned to CAMH staff members.

How to Find an AV Title

How to Borrow AVs

• All borrowers must be registered members of the library. Borrowers with a General Public card may borrow one unrestricted AV item at a time for a period of one week.
• Students must arrange AV loans at their school, through the library, Learning Resource Centre (LRC), AV service or resource person.
• Professionals outside CAMH may access resources by arranging with their organizations to FAX a loan request on official letterhead to (416) 595-6601. Please Note: Most hospitals and universities have libraries that will arrange the loan of AV materials for their staff – this service should be used when available.
• AVs may be reserved ahead of time and are subject to availability. They may be borrowed for the length of time required to ship, show and return them to the CAMH Library, generally 7 to 8 days. If you have further questions you may call (416) 535-8501, ext 6991.
• Please Note: due to licensing and copyright restrictions, some AV materials can only be loaned to CAMH staff members. 

Conditions of Loan

 The CAMH AV Lending Service only loans AV materials within the Province of Ontario. Loan periods are limited and negotiable. Toronto borrowers are responsible for the pick up and return of loans. Items can be sent to borrowers outside of Toronto by courier. The borrower is responsible for arranging and paying for loan returns by courier, and will ensure that the Library receives the loan back on or before the due date of the item.

1. When returning materials by courier, they must be packaged securely in bubble-wrap lined envelopes to prevent damage. Do not use recycled fibre-filled envelopes - This will contaminate AVs and players.
2. The borrower is responsible for the care of AV material. Charges may be levied for replacement of items lost or damaged due to negligence. (The cost of a DVD or video may exceed $300.)
3. Do not attempt to repair or modify AV materials in any way: Please report any malfunction or damage to the CAMH Library before returning the item.
4. AV materials will be returned by the due date unless an extension is granted. The borrower is to call the AV service (416) 535-8501 ext 6991 to request loan extensions before the due date.
5. Termination of loan privileges may result for borrowers who do not return AVs by the due date.
6. AV materials are to be returned directly to the CAMH Library at 33 Russell Street in person or by Courier.

Purchasing AVs 

The CAMH Library does not sell AVs. To purchase an AV located in the CAMH Library AV collection contact the distributor directly. See:

CAMH Library AV Distributors List (PDF)

Contact Information and Address