Kandice VincentA complete guide to public libraries in Toronto
Libraries have long been around to provide citizens and communities with ample sources of information. Nowadays, they have evolved as conducive spaces for learning, studying, working, internet researching, and more.
People are entitled to enjoy libraries of their respective cities or countries. Here is everything you need to know about public libraries in Toronto.
What are the public libraries in Toronto?
There is only one public library in Toronto — but it has a hundred branches all over the city.
The Toronto Public Library has a history that dates back to 1883 and is now recognised as the busiest urban public library system in the world. It holds a total of more than 10 million reference materials.
Here are top 12 favorite Toronto public library branches, according to our research and experience:
Read on so you can know more about the Toronto Public Library and its branches!
- Toronto Reference Library
- North York Central Library
- Agincourt Library
- Don Mills Library
- Victoria Village Library
- High Park Library
- Bloor Gladstone Library
- New Toronto Public Library
- Oakwood Village Library & Arts Centre
- Lillian H. Smith Library
- Scarborough Civic Centre
- Queen/Saulter Library
The 12 Most Popular Toronto Public Library branches
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Just to give you a complete breakdown, 81 of the 100 Toronto public libraries are neighbourhood libraries which primarily serve their corresponding communities.
17 are district libraries, which are medium-sized and are often located in some of Toronto’s most distinct areas such as Scarborough. Two are research and reference libraries, which are the biggest and hold the largest collections among all.
All of the 100 branches are relatively easy to go to as they are considered community landmarks that public transportation passes through. If you want, you can also look into taxi services who can help you find your way.
Each of the branches have their own strengths and carry the reputation of the Toronto Public Library. Here are our top 12 picks to make it easier for you to find a perfect library match for your designated activity:
1. Toronto Reference Library
Image source: torontopubliclibrary.ca
The Toronto Reference Library is the largest among Toronto Public Library branches. It is a five-double storey and 426,535 square feet building.
This place is also considered the largest public reference library in the entire Canada as it holds a wide collection of books, manuscripts, microfilm, CDs, DVDs, and even Ebooks.
We do remind you that most items in this library are designated for in-house reference-use only and that they may not be borrowed for outside purposes.
2. North York Central Library
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The North York Central Library is also a branch of the Toronto Public Library that is considered to be a research and reference library, second to the Toronto Reference Library.
Its large collection includes North York, local history, and native people series of books. Resource materials in foreign languages such as Chinese, French, Korean and Russian can also be found here.
3. Agincourt Library
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With it being in a corner lot, Agincourt Library has many parking spaces around it and has close proximity to major bus terminals and is accessible through most bus routes.
This maintains the reputation of the Toronto Public Library by being WiFi ready and having wheelchair access like most branches. In terms of services and features, this library has youth hubs and even has its own art exhibit space.
4. Don Mills Library
Image source: torontopubliclibrary.ca
Don Mills is a public library that is built mostly with glass, making the space a conducive space for reading and studying as the public can take in the surroundings while sitting in front.
This library is perfect for those who are looking for books that are in Chinese, French and Japanese. It also has a huge collection of books that are printed in large format.
5. Victoria Village Library
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For those who are looking for libraries with assistive technologies, Victoria Village is one of the best. This branch of the Toronto Public Library has computers which screens you can magnify and lamps that can assist in reading with the use of natural spectrum light.
It opened in 1967 and hosts events such as LEGO presentations, group forums on mental health and wellness, and reading introductions to toddlers. An auditorium that has a 75-personmaximum capacity can also be rented for group activities or gatherings.
6. High Park Library
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Appearing as a cosy home in the countryside is High Park Library, making it a comforting place to go to. This library is best for those who are looking for creative inspiration given the setting and its varying collection.
A creative writing group at its community room is also held regularly for writers and aspiring writers. For those who are in need of Polish reference material, this library holds stacks of books and other sources.
7. Bloor Gladstone Library
Image source: torontopubliclibrary.ca
Bloor Gladstone Library’s structure is listed under Toronto’s Inventory of Heritage Properties. The building has history that traces back to 1911 and is arguably one of the prettiest branches of the Toronto Public Library.
The best features of this place include a green roof as a reading space and workshops that touch on Microsoft Excel/Powerpoint basics. They also host crafting sessions for kids almost every afternoon.
8. New Toronto Public Library
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New Toronto Public Library officially became a part of the Toronto Public Library in 1998. It started in 1921 as a volunteer-run library and is now one of the leading branches in terms of innovation.
It also has computers with screen magnification software and natural spectrum lamps, along with page turners and book stands specially designed for persons with disabilities.
A medium collection of French books for children and Polish books for adults can also be found here.
9. Oakwood Village Library & Arts Centre
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With various programmes such as stress management, clothing mending, and family movie days, Oakville Village Library and Arts Centre is a great go-to for research and development. It also has its own art exhibit space and outdoor picnic tables.
French books for children are the highlight of this library’s collection. A piano or practice room is also available for use if needed.
10. Lillian H. Smith Library
Image source: torontopubliclibrary.ca
Having an enticing entrance, Lillian H. Smith Library has one of the most beautiful buildings among all Toronto Public Library branches. However, this library is very exclusive, as it is strictly dedicated to children-based content.
The Osborne Collection of Early Children’s Books and Merril Collection of Science Fiction, Speculation & Fantasy are two of its most popular collections. Materials in Chinese and French and Vietnamese CDs are also available here.
11. Scarborough Civic Centre
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Scarborough Civic Centre is one of Toronto Public Library’s district libraries. This place is a great option as they allow you to borrow a laptop and they have a reading garden.
They also have 17 Microsoft Office workstations that you can use inside the library. A small Tamil collection for adults can also be found here.
12. Queen/Saulter Library
Image source: torontopubliclibrary.ca
Found in the corner of Queen Street East, the Queen/Saulter Library is already a sight to behold in itself. The building is listed on Toronto Historical Board’s Inventory of Heritage Properties and was refurbished in June 2002.
This is among the branches of the Toronto Public Library that has a local history collection. It also has features such as wheelchair accessible furniture, page turner, book stand, large print keyboard, and a 29-seating capacity.
Quick Facts about the Toronto Public Library
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Here are some of the most basic facts about the Toronto Public Library:
1. Toronto Public Library has a history that dates back to the 1800s.
The very first Toronto Library was a private subscription place that was founded on December 9, 1810.
This then led to the opening of the York Mechanics’ Institute, which was “established for the mutual improvement of its members in useful scientific knowledge.”
A library of reference and circulation was formed as a requirement of the York Mechanics Institute. It was when the town of York was renamed as the City of Toronto in 1834 that the institute adapted and was called Toronto Mechanics’ Institute.
You can read more about the history of the library online, but we note that it could be a long timeline. We recommend that you grab a snack from your favorite Toronto café or prepare the reading glasses you have from the best Toronto optometrist you know.
2. Eating and drinking are allowed in certain areas of Toronto public libraries.
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Munching on something or drinking a fresh glass of beverage always helps when you study or work. This is why the Toronto Public Library started to allow people to eat or drink in most of their 99 branches in 2008.
The Toronto Public Library has a goal of creating a more welcoming environment for library guests, hence the decision.
The only rule that they have is that there are still areas where food and drink are prohibited so as to ensure the safety of certain valuable works.
You can bring in food from one of your favorite Toronto restaurants, be it Italian, Spanish, or Japanese.
However, we advise that you stay extra sensitive to the other people in the library and do your best to make sure that they aren’t bothered by the smell of whatever food you have.
If you have extra time, some of the places that make Toronto a paradise for foodies are near some of the library branches, so you can explore more food options before or after your library visit.
3. Service animals are allowed in Toronto public libraries.
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Toronto is a pet-friendly city. The Toronto Public Library allows service animals in their premises daily, especially for people who really need their pet nearby.
The most common service animals you will see are service dogs who accompany persons with disabilities.
On certain occasions, the Toronto Public Library also allows other animals. This is usually during authorised programmes where the presence of live animals may be of help.
Tips on maximising your visit to Toronto public libraries
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1. Utilize the computers and wireless internet access.
Each of the 100 branches have their own WiFi and computer units available. You will find that they have desktops available for free use and that anyone can connect to their hotspots.
Some branches also have Microsoft Office workstations, laptops available for lending, and other digital assistance.
2. Borrow plenty of items at a time.
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Toronto residents borrow materials from the Toronto Public Library more than 20 million times per year. This is because the library is very generous, allowing each person to borrow a maximum of 50 items at a time.
Placing holds is even allowed. An individual can place holds for a maximum of 100 holds at a time, allowing the community to relish in the materials they have.
We do note that there are certain materials that cannot be placed on hold, these are:
- Magazines
- Book Club Sets
- Museum & Arts Passes
- Digital Equipment
- Reference materials (items that can only be used in the library)
- Vertical files
- Unavailable items (where status is Missing, Lost/Paid, Storage)
Just make sure to abide by the rules of the library so you can enjoy its borrowing and holding benefits.
3. Apply for your own Toronto Library Card.
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There are three different categories of Toronto Library Cards for Toronto residents. These are child, teen, and adult.
A thirteen year old may be allowed to apply for their own Toronto Library Card, especially since most of them use this for study or school research. A child aged 12 below will need a parent or guardian to arrange their card for them.
The very reason for the categorisation of the Toronto Library Card and the strict application measurements is for proper consumption.
The Toronto Public Library will not issue age inappropriate materials and will always refer to the Toronto Library Card for records purposes.
Children that are too young may not get to enjoy the libraries just yet. We recommend checking out preschools in Toronto to give them a more fitting learning experience.
Here is a summarised list of identification requirements for a Toronto Library Card:
For adults:
- Driver’s licence
- Ontario health card (version with address on the back)
- Ontario Photo ID card (ages 16 and up)
- CNIB ID card
For teens:
Same options listed above for adults, or:
- parent/guardian’s identification or parent/guardian’s valid and current Toronto Public Library card
- current letter from a teacher on official school stationery
- school report card
For children:
If both the child and parent/guardian are present:
- the parent/guardian’s valid TPL library card, or
- name and address ID from the above list for either the parent or the child
If the child is not present:
- name and address ID for the parent/guardian, and
- ID with the child’s name
- all children’s cards signed by the parent or guardian.
4. For tourists or non-residents, secure a non-resident card.
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Non-Toronto residents can enter any of the 100 Toronto public libraries. Some people even travel to see the libraries given their reputation and vast collection.
The only thing you have to do to get inside any Toronto Public Library is to secure a non-resident card. This will allow you to access library resources and borrow materials.
Non-residents who work, go to school, or own property in Toronto may qualify for a free Toronto Library Card. They simply have to submit the usual identification requirements for a Toronto Library Card.
Any of the following (issued within the last two months of the registration or renewal date) must be included as well:
- current property deed or other proof of property ownership in Toronto
- current pay stub or other current, official proof of employment in Toronto, e.g. letter of employment on official business stationery, employee photo ID card with employment address
- current Toronto student card
- for teens, current letter from a teacher on official school stationery verifying school attendance in Toronto
For non-residents who do not qualify for a free Toronto Library Card, the fee is CAD30 for 3 months or CAD120 for 12 months. You can register for this through any branch and they will process it for you.
As an additional tip, if you’re traveling to Toronto for research, you may also want to secure a Toronto CityPASS, which will allow you to visit some of the best places in the city.
5. Rent or reserve group and individual study rooms from time to time.
Image source: Toronto Public Library
Little bubbles for individual study or work can be seen in Toronto public libraries. This is to give each person a private time to finish what they need to do.
For those who study or work in groups, they also have group rooms that can be reserved and used. Just take note that most of these have a maximum limit of 2 hours per booking, so as to give chances to other people who may need them as well.
Whether it’s for individual study or work, group activities, or even just to enjoy quiet reading, trust that a visit to the nearest Toronto Public Library branch will be worth it.
Also stay updated on each of the branches’ events and workshops, as these provide extra learning, especially for children.
We hope that this article helped you learn more about public libraries in Toronto and how you can maximise using them. Got any Toronto Public Library experiences? Share them with us below!
