Public Libraries

For over 135 years, the Toronto Public Library has been a fundamental part of our community that continues to enrich our lives with knowledge and creativity. With a library card, residents of Ward 13 can unlock a number of benefits and programs, from digital resources and workshops to community events and literacy initiatives. The library's branches in our ward, such as Parliament Street and others, provide accessible spaces for learning, growth, and socialization.

Additionally, the library plays a critical role in supporting families through various assistance programs, including initiatives that address food security and wellness, which are particularly relevant to our community. By providing these essential services, the Toronto Public Library fosters a more informed, creative, and resilient community in Ward 13 and beyond. I encourage you to visit your local branch and explore all that the library has to offer!

Who's Responsible for What?

Municipal

Chapter 137, Public Library Board

Toronto Public Library's Annual Report and Strategic Plan

2025 Budget Notes Toronto Public Library

Provincial

Public Libraries Act

City of Toronto Act

Federal

The Toronto Public Library card offers a wide range of benefits and programs for all ages. With a library card, you can access a vast collection of books, audiobooks, e-books, music, movies, and other digital resources. The library also provides various programs, including literacy initiatives for children, author readings, workshops, and community events.

Some key benefits and services are having access to free museum passes to popular attractions like the Art Gallery of Ontario, Royal Ontario Museum, Toronto Zoo, and more. The library also offers Digital Innovation Hubs at select branches, providing access to professional software, computers, and equipment like 3D printers and coding kits. You can even borrow musical instruments for free at participating branches. Some branches also offer free piano practice rooms, and you can use printing and photocopying services at all library locations.

The Toronto Public Library offers a wide range of programs and services for all ages. For kids 5 and under, online programs like Ready for Reading and 1000 Reads Before Kindergarten help build early literacy skills, while staff-led storytimes like Baby Time, Toddler Time, and Preschool Time introduce children to letters, numbers, and colors. Other programs include workshops on topics like learning disabilities and community writing, as well as online STEM activities, author visits, and live events on YouTube and Crowdcast. Additionally, you can enroll in free online courses through LinkedIn Learning, which are led by industry experts on a wide range of business, technology, creative and professional certification topics. Some courses are available in French and other languages and you can earn certificates and badges to demonstrate your skills and knowledge. The online courses are designed to support lifelong learning and professional development, and are accessible 24/7 from any device with an internet connection. Overall, a Toronto Public Library card is a valuable resource for lifelong learning, personal enrichment, and entertainment.

The Toronto Public Library system consists of 100 branches across the city, including 81 neighbourhood libraries, 17 district libraries, and two research and reference libraries. Each branch has its own unique collection and programs, and hours of operation vary depending on the location. You can find a branch near you and check its hours on the Toronto Public Library website. The library also offers online resources and virtual services, allowing you to access library materials and programs from the comfort of your own home.

For residents of Ward 13, the closest Toronto Public Library branches are:

Parliament Street Branch – 269 Gerrard Street East
Toronto Reference Library – 789 Yonge Street
Lillian H. Smith Branch – 239 College Street

The hours of branches are the same for the above three branches:

Monday-Friday 9:00 am to 8:30 pm
Saturday 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Sunday 1:30 pm to 5:00 pm

As outlined in the City of Toronto Act, 2006, the Toronto Public Library Board is governed by provincial legislation that provides guidance on its operation and governance. As a result, the Toronto Public Library operates within a range of policies and guidelines that guarantee equal access to library services for all ages, covering areas such as borrowing privileges, computer and internet use, and programs and services for children and adults. By following these policies and guidelines, you can ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all users and make the most of the library's resources and services.

For more information on the governance and operation of the Toronto Public Library Board, please visit the City of Toronto's website.

The Toronto Public Library offers a range of family assistance programs designed to support the well-being and development of children, youth, and families. Current programs that are running at select branches are the After School at TPL and Feeding Young Minds Initiative. As well as some crisis support services and wellness programs.

The After School at TPL is a program that provides regular healthy food options and activities for kids aged 6-12 at 39 library branches. The program aims to inspire creativity, learning, and socialization among children, while also addressing food security issues. By offering a safe and welcoming space, After School at TPL helps children develop important life skills, build relationships with peers and library staff, and access resources that support their overall well-being. Similarly, Feeding Young Minds Initiative is a pilot project that offers healthy food options during child and youth-focused programs at select branches. They aim to address food security issues and supports emotional, cognitive, and motor development in children. By providing nutritious food and a supportive environment, Feeding Young Minds helps children develop healthy habits, build confidence, and thrive in their daily lives.

The Toronto Public Library also partnered with Gerstein Crisis Centre, who work to provide low-barrier crisis support and programs at four library branches. This service offers short-term counseling, mental health support, and referrals to community resources. By providing a safe and confidential space, Crisis Support at the Library helps individuals and families navigate challenging situations, access vital resources, and build resilience. Additionally, the library offers various wellness programs, including Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) and Finding Recovery Through Exercise Skills and Hope (F.R.E.S.H.). WRAP is an education and planning tool that focuses on mental health recovery, providing self-help tools, peer counselling, and stress reduction techniques. F.R.E.S.H. is a peer-led program that promotes physical activity, socialization, and skill-building. These programs demonstrate the library's commitment to supporting mental health and well-being, while also fostering a sense of community and connection among participants.

By providing access to these resources, the Toronto Public Library plays a vital role in enhancing the lives of Toronto residents. Whether it's through food security initiatives, crisis support, or wellness programs, the library is dedicated to supporting the diverse needs of its community.

Frequently Asked Questions

What benefits do I get with a Toronto Public Library card?

With a Toronto Public Library card, you can access a vast collection of books, audiobooks, e-books, music, and movies. You also get free museum passes to popular attractions like the Art Gallery of Ontario, Royal Ontario Museum, and Toronto Zoo. Additionally, you can access Digital Innovation Hubs at select branches, which provide professional software, computers, and equipment like 3D printers and coding kits. You can even borrow musical instruments for free at participating branches, and use printing and photocopying services at all library locations.

What kind of programs does the Toronto Public Library offer for children?

The library offers a wide range of programs for children, including literacy initiatives like Ready for Reading and 1000 Reads Before Kindergarten, which help build early literacy skills. Staff-led storytimes like Baby Time, Toddler Time, and Preschool Time introduce children to letters, numbers, and colours. The library also offers online STEM activities, author visits, and live events on YouTube and Crowdcast. These programs are designed to support children's cognitive, social, and emotional development, and are suitable for children of all ages.

How can I find a Toronto Public Library branch near me and check its hours?

You can find a branch near you and check its hours on the Toronto Public Library website. The library system consists of 100 branches across the city, each with its own unique collection and programs. By visiting the website, you can search for a branch by location or name, and view its hours, contact information, and available services.

Can I access library materials and programs from home?

Yes, the library offers online resources and virtual services, allowing you to access library materials and programs from the comfort of your own home. You can borrow e-books, audiobooks, and digital magazines, and access online courses, databases, and other digital resources. The library's website also provides access to virtual programs and events, including author talks, book clubs, and workshops.