You insist on going to the library, but who is actually there in the library!
The Toronto Public Library (Toronto Public Library) is a public library system headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. It is one of the largest library systems in Canada and the second busiest library system in North America (by number of visits). Its history dates back to 1830.
The library system consists of 100 branches, including 81 community libraries, 17 district libraries, and 2 research and reference libraries, serving the entire city through its network. Additionally, online resources, mobile libraries, and home services further expand public access to the Toronto Public Library's collections and services.
- Borrowing services: Over 10.2 million physical and electronic collections, including books, music, and videos in various languages, reading levels, and formats (print, audiovisual, electronic content, etc.).
- Public computer and network use: Provides publicly accessible computer workstations and access to the internet and other digital resources.
- Virtual library services: Supports over 36 million website visits annually, with services including collections, programs, and user account access with self-service features such as online fine payment and access to reference electronic collections.
- Programs promoting literacy, lifelong learning, and cultural access: Special emphasis on literacy development for children and teenagers.
- Rental spaces: Available for meetings, events, and exhibitions.
Local residents can apply for a library card to borrow books, videotapes, and other materials from various libraries. The library offers a wide range of books covering diverse topics. The comfortable environment is well-loved by residents.
The governance of the Toronto Public Library is overseen by the Toronto Public Library Board (TPL Board), which consists of 10 members appointed by the City Council, including 8 public members appointed through the city's public appointment process and 2 City Council members (one of whom is the Mayor or a designated member of the Council). The board members elect a chair and vice-chair from among themselves.
For international students studying in Toronto, including those studying in Toronto, they can also enjoy its services, all for free. For example, they can borrow high school textbooks; use the library's study rooms, with some libraries offering printing, copying, and scanning services; participate in various exam training through the library's online service platform, such as IELTS and TOEFL; enjoy homework tutoring services from 2 PM to 11 PM; participate in various offline activities such as book clubs, interest classes, and author lectures; and use the membership card to borrow a "Museum + Art Gallery Pass" to visit major exhibitions in Toronto for free.
Different branches may have their own unique features. For example, the Lillian H. Smith Library houses the Osborne Collection of Early Children's Books, one of the main collections of the library, containing many classic children's book editions. The Albert Campbell Branch, transformed from a Brutalist architecture, has a unique design with large windows to attract daylight and community views.