The Innovation Hubs

So you've written a book, and it's all ready to publish with Asquith Press, the library's book printing service. But have you thought about the cover? After all, as we all know, a book's cover is its most important part!*

Learn how to make a simple book cover fit for publication with Asquith Press using Photoshop at a free hands-on workshop at Toronto Reference Library on Saturday August 20, 2016, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm. This workshop is free but you must register online.

NOTE: The August 20 workshop is now full. There will be another workshop on Saturday September 24, 2016, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm. Online registration is required. Registration opens on Saturday August 27 at 9:00 am at this link. Space is limited! 

*I am kidding, of course; it's what's inside the book that matters most. But many people do judge a book by its cover. Good book jacket design can make a big difference when a reader is perusing a bookshelf or display and trying to decide which book to pick up. 

Fortunately, the library has everything you need to design a beautiful cover for your book and help make it a self-publishing success story. That's right: we've got you covered. (Sorry.) And it's all free with your Toronto Public Library card!

• Our Digital Design Workstations have Windows and Mac computers loaded with graphic design software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. Digital Design Workstations are located in the Digital Innovation Hubs at three library branches: Toronto Reference Library, Fort York and Scarborough Civic Centre.

• We offer free introductory digital design classes and workshops on a regular basis. Check our website for upcoming programs.

• You can borrow library books (in print or online) about graphic design or how to use Photoshop, Illustrator, or InDesign.

Robin Williams' "non-designer's" design books are popular classics and a good introduction for those new to graphic or print design.

You can also take an online video tutorial on graphic design principles or software from Lynda.com. There's even a course called "Designing a Book Cover."