Behind every good event and program at the library, including the Open Mic at the Toronto Reference Library, is a staff person. My co-worker Will, who is both a librarian and a musician, is the driving force behind this series. He's brought his energy, passion and his skills (not to mention his own acoustic guitar) […]
If you're interested in music (especially jazz and soul), you've likely heard of Nina Simone. Matt Galloway recently did an Ask Me Anything on Reddit where he mentioned her. I was reminded how much I admired her singing, passion and how she intimidated me too. You may also be familiar with her striking portraits. […]
Toronto is abuzz with the upcoming Yayoi Kusama show at the Art Gallery of Ontario. I happened to be at the AGO the other day and all the staff were busily peeling off the white backing from thousands of sheets of stickers. One of them fell into my wallet … According to the book […]
Who among us hasn't accidentally eaten pot brownies while at work? You may have heard about the recent unfortunate incident with two local police officers who consumed some marijuana edibles? In case you are interested in cooking with pot(s) you may like these titles. Enjoy safely and responsibly and let us know your favorite recipe. […]
Ingvar Kamprad, the thrifty Swedish businessman and founder of IKEA, has just died at the age of 91. You likely know the stories of his frugality, always flew coach, drove a Volvo, ate at the IKEA cafeteria and lived in a modest home. At the same time … Bloomberg Billionaires Index has valued him at […]
You've likely heard about the controversy going on now with President Donald Trump and his colourful choice of language (and possibly racist immigration policy). Personally, I don't see a lot of difference between shithole or shithouse, and they both seem a bit potty mouth to me. But there are a wide variety of views on […]
Every year, we unpack the dancing Santa and I know it's going to be Christmas soon. I would imagine most folks who celebrate Christmas will have something similar that says — hey it's that time! My family mementos got me thinking about Toronto's deep relationship with Santa Claus. Now, if you're from here you're probably […]
December 1 is World AIDS Day. According to the Canadian site CATIE, "World AIDS Day is a day dedicated to commemorate those who have passed on and to raise awareness about AIDS and the global spread of the HIV virus". Gay Pride Day celebrants line Yonge St. to support those who marched carrying banners, many of […]
Myseum of Toronto and Toronto Public Library have partnered up to present a musically delightful series of talks and music. The Sounds of Toronto: The Great Debate; One City, One Album If you had to pick just one album that captures the sound of Toronto, what would it be? Join host Eric Alper, music […]
Recapture that feeling at the annual Book and DVD Sale, November 23-25, 2017, sponsored by the Friends of the Library, South Chapter. Come buy gently used, very good condition gift books, cook books, children's books or previously viewed DVDs and DVD sets, CDs and LPs. It's a cash only sale (most books are $1) and […]