About the Library

General information about The Toronto Public Library and Branches

The Toronto Public Library was founded in 1884, so that people who enjoyed reading books could find interesting books and a quiet area to read. Now the Toronto Public Library has over 100 branches, and staff are knowledgeable about all kinds of books and other materials to help kids, teens, and adults by encouraging them to read interesting books and helping them to improve their skills. Some branches are open 7 day a week including evenings, but some are closed on Mondays and Sundays. Sometimes these branches can have special events such as authors' talks, and they do workshops in library branches and online. At your branch, they provide library cards for residents of Toronto, which people need to borrow books and many other materials to read in the library or at their houses. Although borrowing from the library is free, if someone forgot to return something when it is due, that person may have to pay a small fine. The library also offers many services and materials online. Anyone can go to the Toronto Public Library website to learn more about everything the library offers today.