New to Canada

April 21st is the United Nation's World Creativity and Innovation Day (WCID). It is a day designated to encourage creative thought and expression, as well as remembering innovations throughout our lifetime.

Creativity is an important aspect of our society. It keeps us moving forward through new ideas and inventions that solve problems in our society. The capacity for what the human brain can imagine is astonishing. We have created some of the most life-changing inventions like self-driving cars and 3D printed prosthetic limbs.

At Toronto Public Library (TPL), we are champions of innovation. We encourage creativity, experimentation and the generation of ideas.

We are proud to offer free access to services, materials, and programs that encourage creativity and innovation. Here are some of them:

Library Services

Toronto Poetry Map

With the help of Toronto’s fourth poet laureate George Elliott Clarke, TPL has created a new way to explore the city through poetry. Browse over various iconic spots in Toronto and read the words written by others to describe their glorious existence. Maybe it'll inspire you too!

Digital Innovation Hubs

Located at 8 different branches across the city, our Digital Innovation Hubs are free to use and offer equipment, workstations, and classes on how to use new technology and software. 3D printers, Arduino kits and Adobe Creative Suite software are just a few of the things offered. These are great tools to expand your creative mind, and all you need is your library card!

Ever wanted to become a fashion designer? Our Fabrication Studio at North York Central offers access to sewing machines and a vinyl cutter/printer to create projects using textiles. Our audio and video studio spaces provide users with the equipment and software required to work on recording songs, making podcasts, or even shooting a commercial. 

Music Lending Library

Have an ear for music but don't have an instrument? Or maybe you've always wanted to try the guitar but didn't want to commit just yet? With the scan of your library card, you can borrow an instrument for up to 9 weeks from Parkdale branch. While this location is closed for renovation, the music lending library has temporarily been moved to High Park branch. 

Art Galleries

Along with our MAP passes, TPL has a variety of art exhibits featuring local artists at 14 library branches throughout the city. If you'd like to be featured, the deadline to apply is April 26. Learn about submitting your own art for display in one of our gallery spaces.

Books Showcasing Canadian Innovation

Canadians are responsible for creating the telephone, basketball, the Blackberry phone, and the garbage bag to name a few. Learn more about the amazing inventions created by Canadians in the following books:

How are you celebrating World Creativity and Innovation Day (WCID)? Let us know in the comments down below.