Toronto Public Library

TorontoCanada 43° N · 79° W

Toronto, Canada, is a vibrant city rich in culture, history, and architectural marvels, making it a prime destination for visitors seeking an immersive…

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Toronto Public Library
Toronto Public Library Bookmobile Two vehicle parked on city street
Toronto Public Library's Bookmobile Two, a mobile library vehicle, parked on a city street providing library services
Toronto Public Library Bookmobile Two parked outdoors
Image of Toronto Public Library's Bookmobile Two, a mobile library vehicle, parked on a sunny day.
Toronto Public Library Bookmobile Two mobile library vehicle
Image of Toronto Public Library's Bookmobile Two, a mobile library vehicle designed to provide library services on wheels.
Bookplate for the Canadiana collection at the Toronto Public Library from 1914
An image of a vintage bookplate from the Canadiana collection at the Toronto Public Library, dated 1914, featuring ornate illustrations and text.
Toronto City Hall with adjacent Public Library building
View of Toronto City Hall alongside the Toronto Public Library building, showcasing modern architectural design in downtown Toronto
Eastern Branch Public Library building on Main Street in Toronto
Exterior view of the Eastern Branch Public Library located on Main Street in Toronto, Canada, showcasing its classic architectural design.
Historic High Park Branch Library building in Toronto circa 1916
Vintage photograph of the High Park Branch Library in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, around the year 1916 showcasing early 20th century architecture.
Toronto Public Library at the corner of Broadview Avenue and Gerrard Street East with a streetcar on Gerrard Street going west
Image of Toronto Public Library located at northwest corner of Broadview Avenue and Gerrard Street East in Toronto, Canada, featuring a streetcar traveling west on Gerrard Street towards Parliament Street.
Sketch of the Carnegie Library building located at Station Road and Stanley Avenue in Mimico
Detailed sketch of the historic Carnegie Library constructed in Mimico, situated at the intersection of Station Road and Stanley Avenue.
Northern District Library building in Toronto with architectural details and surrounding greenery
Image of the Northern District Library located in Toronto, showcasing its architecture and the surrounding trees and landscape.
Historic public library building at Yonge Street and Montgomery Avenue in early 1900s Toronto
Historic image of a public library originally built for Township of York, located at Yonge Street and Montgomery Avenue in Toronto, later becoming North Toronto town hall in 1891 before annexation by City of Toronto in 1912, demolished in 1931.
Reference reading room at Central Library Toronto 1922 pen and ink drawing
Pen and ink drawing of the reference reading room at Central Library in Toronto, published in 1922 by Galbraith O'Leary in the Toronto Daily Star.

Toronto’s libraries, landmarks, and skyline reflect the city’s history, innovation, and culture. The Toronto Public Library, CN Tower, and Toronto Old City Hall offer visitors ways to explore its architectural and civic heritage.

Toronto Public Library

The Toronto Public Library (TPL), established in 1884, is Canada’s busiest urban library system and a cornerstone of Toronto’s public life. It serves nearly one million cardholders across more than 100 branches, with programs supporting digital literacy, newcomer integration, Indigenous languages, and lifelong learning. Its virtual programming and online collections help bridge the digital divide and provide access to information. (Active History; Publishing State)

History

TPL’s establishment followed 1882 Ontario provincial legislation that empowered municipalities to create and fund free public libraries. In its early years, the system operated from rented spaces and later benefited from Andrew Carnegie’s philanthropy. Starting in 1903, Carnegie funded the construction of ten branches. These included the Yorkville Public Library, opened in 1907, whose neoclassical architecture reflected changing library practices, including the shift to open stacks in the 1930s.

After the Carnegie era, TPL expanded into Toronto’s growing suburbs. By the mid-20th century, branches were adopting modernist and Brutalist styles and becoming community hubs designed for inclusivity and engagement.

What to see

The Toronto Reference Library (TRL), at 789 Yonge Street, is the TPL system’s flagship branch. Opened in 1977 and designed by Raymond Moriyama, the five-storey building was inspired by the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. It features a central atrium, curving balconies, and abundant natural light. A major renovation in 2012 modernized its facilities and added amenities including the Balzar Café, study pods, and advanced learning labs. (Moriyama & Teshima Architects; Toronto Guardian; Moriyama & Teshima Architects)

The library holds approximately two million books, periodicals, and multimedia resources. Its special collections include:

  • The Arthur Conan Doyle Collection
  • The Baldwin Collection of Canadiana
  • Rare maps, pictures, and performing arts materials

The Marilyn & Charles Baillie Special Collections Centre provides public access to these collections, which distinguish the TRL among major research libraries. The library also offers digital resources, online databases, and technology workshops. (History of Toronto)

The TRL hosts author talks, book clubs, workshops, exhibitions, and concerts. TPL branches also offer community programs, virtual programming, and online collections.

Visiting information

  • Hours Most branches, including the TRL, are typically open Monday–Saturday, 9 AM–9 PM, and Sunday, 12 PM–5 PM. Hours may vary by location and on holidays. Check the official website for current details.
  • Admission Entry is free; no tickets are required.
  • Accessibility All branches are wheelchair accessible, with barrier-free entrances, elevators, accessible washrooms, and assistive technologies.
  • Amenities The TRL has the Balzar Café, study pods, meeting rooms, free Wi-Fi, computer access, and the Toronto Star Newspaper Room.
  • Getting there The TRL is in Yorkville, just north of Bloor Street and steps from Bloor-Yonge subway station. Bicycle racks and nearby paid parking are available. (Toronto2Anywhere)

Nearby places

The TRL is close to the Royal Ontario Museum, Bata Shoe Museum, Queen’s Park, and Yonge-Dundas Square. TPL cardholders can also access free passes to selected Toronto attractions through the tpl:map program. (Curiocity)

CN Tower

Completed in 1976 by Canadian National Railway, the CN Tower was originally built to improve telecommunications. It is an enduring symbol of Toronto, a celebrated feat of Canadian engineering, and one of the tallest free-standing structures in the world. The tower is illuminated nightly and frequently hosts citywide celebrations and special events. (CN Tower Official)

What to see

The tower’s visitor options include the LookOut Level and Glass Floor, the higher SkyPod observation deck, and EdgeWalk, an outdoor hands-free walk for visitors aged 13 and older. The Glass Floor and outdoor SkyTerrace are popular photography spots. The 360 Restaurant offers a revolving dining experience.

The CN Tower also holds seasonal events, including light shows, and guided tours with historical insights.

Visiting information

  • Hours Daily, 9:00 AM–10:30 PM; last admission is 9:30 PM. Hours may vary on holidays and for special events. Check the official website.
  • Tickets Tickets can be purchased online or on-site. Options include General Admission for the LookOut Level and Glass Floor, SkyPod access, and EdgeWalk. Advance booking is recommended for EdgeWalk.
  • Accessibility The tower has elevators, wheelchair-friendly paths, accessible washrooms, and guest services for visitors with disabilities.
  • Getting there The CN Tower is accessible by subway and train via Union Station, as well as by streetcar, bus, and bicycle.

Tips

Late afternoon offers sunset views, while evenings show the illuminated skyline. Dress appropriately for outdoor observation areas, which can be windy.

Nearby places

The CN Tower is near Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, Rogers Centre, and the Harbourfront Centre.

Toronto Old City Hall

Toronto Old City Hall, at 60 Queen Street West, is a civic landmark and a Romanesque Revival building designed by E.J. Lennox. Its grand clock tower, intricate stonework, and municipal significance mark it as a symbol of Toronto’s civic heritage. (City of Toronto Heritage)

History

Completed in 1899, Old City Hall served as Toronto’s city hall until 1966. It now functions as a courthouse.

What to see

The building’s clock tower and detailed stonework are prominent features. Exterior and some interior public areas are open to visitors, though interior access is limited by its courthouse functions. Local heritage organizations occasionally offer guided tours.

Visiting information

  • Hours Generally open Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–5:00 PM, in line with court operations.
  • Admission Free access is available to the exterior and some interior public areas. No general admission ticket is required; special events or tours may require tickets.
  • Accessibility The grounds and exterior are wheelchair accessible. Some interior areas have limited accessibility.
  • Getting there Old City Hall is downtown, near Queen Station subway station and multiple streetcar lines. Paid parking is available in nearby garages.

Nearby places

Old City Hall is adjacent to Nathan Phillips Square, site of the Toronto sign, and New City Hall. The Toronto Eaton Centre and the Theatre District are also nearby.

Practical visitor tips

  • Check official websites for current hours and event schedules.
  • Public transit can be used to reach these sites, particularly in busy downtown areas.
  • Take advantage of free access at libraries and public spaces.
  • Consider guided tours for historical insights.
  • Explore nearby attractions during your visit.
  • Download the Audiala app for digital collections and audio tours, and connect with the sites on social media for news and events.

FAQs

Toronto Public Library

  • What are the hours? Most branches are open Monday–Saturday, 9 AM–9 PM, and Sunday, 12 PM–5 PM. Check the official website for up-to-date hours.
  • Is there an entry fee? No. Entry is free.
  • Is the library accessible? Yes. All branches are described as fully accessible, with wheelchair access and other accessibility features.
  • Are guided tours available? Some branches offer tours and events; see the events calendar on the TPL website.
  • Can I take photos? Non-flash photography is allowed in public areas. Restrictions may apply in special collections or during events.

CN Tower

  • Can I buy tickets on-site? Yes, though online booking is recommended.
  • Is it suitable for children? Yes. The Glass Floor is especially popular with kids.
  • Are pets allowed? Only service animals are allowed.
  • What are the EdgeWalk safety measures? Participants wear harnesses and are supervised by trained staff.
  • Is parking available? Several paid lots are nearby.

Toronto Old City Hall

  • Can I tour the interior? Interior access is limited, but special tours are occasionally offered.
  • Is there parking nearby? Yes. Paid garages are available; street parking is limited.
  • Are there events at Old City Hall? Events are primarily court-related; public events are held in Nathan Phillips Square.
  • Is it wheelchair accessible? The exterior and plaza are accessible; interior accessibility is limited.