What to know
- Residents are praising the Toronto Public Library on social media for providing safety, community, and belonging, with many recalling its important role throughout their lives.
- TPL says it’s “deeply moved” by the feedback, emphasizing that library branches remain inclusive third spaces where everyone is welcome.
- Beyond books, TPL offers free access to programs, digital resources, job and learning tools, and community services used by millions of Torontonians each year.
In a time where finding a third space to unwind and have fun has become a rarity, the Toronto Public Library (TPL) is being celebrated for its underrated perks.
Several Torontonians are sending love to TPL for offering not only free book rentals, but also a range of accessible services, discounts, and overall benefits that are not celebrated enough.
For many, the TPL might be a regular part of their city life. Finding a new read, visiting attractions or even just chilling at their local library might be just another part of their routines. But in a recent social media discussion, residents are recalling the impactful role of the library in their lives by sharing special moments and important memories of the service.
“I grew up [on] other side of [the] world. There was no library for us. 15 years in here and still it amazes me so much that all these books are at my finger tips. All these library branches, fabulous decor and benefits: too good to be true. I wish I had this growing up. My kid is definitely lucky,” one user said on Reddit.
“The library offered me a safe place to go to as a child over 30 years ago when my step-father was horrid and very verbally abusive. The library offered me a safe place as a young gay man where two of the librarians were very progressive and extremely protective of queer youngsters,” another user said. “I love the Toronto Public Library and will defend it with all my heart.”
“When I was younger, my absolute favourite place to be in the summer was the Summer Reading Club. All my friends joined and there was so much free swag (poster, stickers, books). I remember being so excited to go every week,” a different user added.
Read More
Reacting to the positive comments, TPL’s Senior Manager of Communications and Stakeholder Relations Ana-Maria Critchley told Now Toronto that the library is “deeply moved by this feedback” and appreciates the shared memories.
“Knowing that TPL served as a haven during people’s childhoods and continues to hold that special place in their hearts reminds us of the profound impact a public library can have on a life. We’re grateful people are sharing their memories and appreciate the generosity,” she said in an email to Now Toronto on Friday.
Critchley also added that the library has become an important third space in the city at a time when public spaces have become rare, and emphasized its commitment to welcome all visitors and offer programs for all.
“Our library branches remain places where everyone is welcome and belongs. Whether you’re new to the city, looking for quiet, seeking community, or simply need somewhere to be, you have a place here,” she said.
“Every day, we see people studying for exams, parents bringing their children to programs, seniors connecting over shared interests, and individuals finding refuge during difficult times.”
In 2024 alone, public libraries in the city had nearly 45 million visits, with 13.4 million being in-person and 31.5 million digital, with 81 per cent of Torontonians being library users, according to the TPL. Also that year, library materials were borrowed 28 million times, while more than 750,000 people accessed its in-person programs and 23,000 online.
UNDERRATED LIBRARY PERKS
Although public libraries are notorious for offering easy access to free book rentals, a virtual or in-person visit to the TPL gives Torontonians much more than literary worlds to explore.
The TPL holds over 10.5 million items, between books, CDs, and DVDs available in over 40 different languages and several genres, from graphic novels to sci-fi and romance.
Besides access to physical books, the library also offers free access to millions of ebooks and audiobooks, which can be downloaded to a library cardholder’s own ebook device through OverDrive or Libby.
When visiting a TPL branch, Torontonians can also access a range of resources, including free wi-fi, computer access, printing, virtual rooms, and more. You can also borrow musical instruments and equipment at the library’s fabrication studio or digital innovation hubs.
Meanwhile, the library card also offers a series of in-person and digital resources that can help you have fun, learn a new skill, explore new languages, and even find a job. From LinkedIn Learning to Gale Courses to Mango Languages, there are several resources to benefit from.
Speaking about fulfilling your time with community, accessible services and knowledge, the library is also a great place to find a range of programming for all tastes, from storytelling to author events, to classes, including:
- Programs and educational resources to learn about AI;
- Programs about climate action;
- Book clubs;
- Access to career coaches;
- Support for newcoming entrepreneurs;
- Financial advice;
- Writer workshops
To discover more about everything that is available through the library, Critchley recommends visiting your local branch or exploring tpl.ca.
