City Librarian’s Report for June 2025
Below is my report for the June 2025 Toronto Public Library (TPL) Board meeting. This report covers items that are not part of the Board agenda package.
Spaces
Dawes Road branch expansion
Dawes Road library closed on June 21 for a major reconstruction and expansion. The current building, situated in the densely populated Taylor-Massey Oakridge Neighbourhood Improvement Area, will be replaced by a new 25,500 square foot net-zero carbon facility that complies with the Toronto Green Standard. The library will be located on the first and second floors and span 20,000 square feet. The third floor will consist of a 5,500 square foot Community Hub managed by the City of Toronto.
The Dawes Road project activates TPL’s Indigenous Strategies commitment to implement the Canadian Federation of Library Associations’ Truth and Reconciliation Committee’s recommendation that “Renovations or new construction projects engage with Indigenous architects and stakeholders so as to incorporate authentic Indigenous designs.” We partnered with Smoke Architecture to host a series of engagement sessions with Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Keepers, resulting in the award winning star blanket design.
Through this build, the branch will serve the community with accessible and multipurpose spaces, including a Youth Hub, a KidsStop Early Literacy Centre, a Virtual Interview Room and a Digital Innovation Hub. The facility will also include a round house and an outdoor rooftop medicine garden with a fire pit for traditional smudging ceremonies.
As we build the new branch, we will select a new name through an Indigenous-led engagement and consultation process that honors the treaty land it is built upon.
The new library is expected to open in 2028.
Reopening Malvern branch
On June 6, the Malvern community came out in full force to celebrate the reopening of their much-loved branch after its renovation, and it was clear how deeply it had been missed.
Hundreds of visitors of all ages filled the library. More than 120 children enjoyed a magic performance and a storytime, and over 30 older adults reconnected at our lively Seniors Social. We also welcomed over a dozen community partners, who hosted information booths to engage and support residents. The energy in the building was a powerful reminder of the branch’s role in providing a safe, inclusive and welcoming space at the heart of the Malvern community.
A key highlight was the excitement around the newly designed Youth Hub. Teens poured into the space to explore, reconnect and enjoy everything it offers, proving just how vital the branch is to youth in the area.
It was incredibly meaningful to see the community we support come out to support us. Thank you, Malvern, for such a warm and unforgettable welcome back.
Opening the Centennial pop-up
On May 5, we opened a pop-up library at Finchurst Plaza, offering a small and cozy space for the community as Centennial branch completes its reconstruction and expansion. This new location offers essential services, including book returns, hold pickups, free Wi-Fi, computer access and a multifunctional printer for scanning, photocopying and printing. Customers can browse a carefully selected collection of children’s, teen and adult books, along with DVDs, music CDs, newspapers and magazines.
Though compact, the space is warm, inviting and deeply appreciated. One customer, overjoyed to discover the pop-up was open, was so grateful they brought a bouquet of flowers for staff. Their gesture reflects the strong sense of community this little library inspires. We extend our gratitude to the property owner for donating the temporary space.
Postcard exhibition at the Toronto Reference Library
From February 15 to June 2, the Wish You Were Here exhibition in the TD Gallery at the Toronto Reference Library featured a selection of postcards from TPL’s Special Collections. The exhibit mainly focused on Toronto but included postcards from across Canada.
Feedback from the community was positive and largely focused on the awe of discovering some of Toronto's lost architecture. Visitors enjoyed seeing our unique postcard collections, including those made with leather and silk.
Last month, TPL curator Alicia Cherayil spoke with David Common on CBC’s Metro Morning radio show about some of the postcards featured in the exhibit and what they tell us about Toronto’s past.
Collections
The List expands to include French recommendations
Last month, TPL launched the 2025 edition of The List: Great Reads for Youth, TPL’s annual booklist for teens. For the first time, The List was expanded in collaboration with the French Services team to include 21 French titles in addition to 100 English titles. Title recommendations are available at tpl.ca/thelist by using the French filter. In addition, a print booklet is available at all branches.
Each year, TPL staff curate 100 diverse recommendations for teens, in 10 categories that reflect current trends. Video reviews from teen volunteers are also available and are added throughout the year. The List is an excellent resource for readers’ advisory and self-directed discovery in both English and French.
Staff expertise
TPL at the Forest of Reading Festival
On May 13 and 14, staff from Children’s Services, Youth Services and Digital Innovation Services took part in the annual Forest of Reading Festival. The two-day event is Canada’s largest literary festival for young readers and features exciting award celebrations with the nominated authors.
TPL’s booth welcomed more than 1,400 children and teens, and featured information about our collections, services and programs along with a live 3D printing demonstration. Visitors learned about Digital Innovation Hubs, The List and Young Voices, and our upcoming Summer Wonder and TD Summer Reading Club programs. They also collected 3D printed keychains by answering library related trivia questions.
White Pine-nominated authors Matteo L. Cerilli and Stephanie Cooke stopped by to take photos with The List, which features Cerilli’s Lockjaw and Cooke’s Pillow Talk, capping off two fantastic days celebrating young readers and authors.
Lunch and Learn spotlighting AI, misinformation and disinformation
On May 13, 25 TPL staff participated in “Digital Democracy Decoded,” an online Lunch and Learn session that was presented with the Dais public policy and leadership think tank at Toronto Metropolitan University.
The session featured the Dais’ two newly-created “Democracy @ Work” learning modules: "Understanding Misinformation and Disinformation" and "Algorithms and Understanding Artificial Intelligence and Deepfakes." Staff had the opportunity to discuss the content, which included strategies for evaluating information and best practices for seeking credible sources, and the impact of artificial intelligence on content creation and consumption.
Our quarterly Digital Literacy Initiatives Lunch and Learn sessions offer staff an opportunity to hear from experts in emerging technologies, data privacy, misinformation and disinformation, equipping staff with the skills they need to support development of multiple literacies.
2SLGBTQ+ staff training
On May 14, members from the library’s staff-supported 2SLGBTQ+ Services Committee presented a training session on tools and strategies for designing and delivering 2SLGBTQ+ programming to Children’s Services staff ahead of Pride Month.
The event began with a fun ice-breaker that tested staff’s knowledge of Toronto’s 2SLGBTQ+ history, followed by a workshop on 2SLGBTQ+ programs and services for children and families at TPL, addressing the importance of diversity, equity, inclusion and intellectual freedom in library programming. Committee members also facilitated small-group discussions, inviting staff to practice how to handle potential challenges to 2SLGBTQ+ programs and materials.
The highlight of the afternoon was a presentation from guest speakers and experienced child educators, JP Kane and Kaleb Robertson – also known by their fabulous drag names, Fay and Fluffy. They spoke about the importance of drag story time for all children and families, expressed their appreciation for libraries, and discussed how libraries can best support drag performers and 2SLGBTQ+ programming and program partners.
Building community-led libraries
On May 22, TPL Senior Services Specialist Rabia Pirani joined community librarians Andrea Arsenault of Halton Hills Public Library and Shelby Moffatt of Whitby Public Library for a University of Toronto panel led by Professor Siobhan Stevenson.
The discussion focused on community-led libraries and removing barriers to library services through outreach and supporting cultural and social empowerment. Panelists emphasized the importance of inclusive spaces for equity-deserving groups and free access to resources, technology and learning opportunities.
The session also explored social prescribing, a growing practice where individuals are referred to non-medical supports like the library to promote health and well-being.
This call to action encouraged students to centre community needs in policy, strengthen welcoming spaces and build trust through responsive, community-based library service.
Spotlighting TPL’s Home Library Service and Bookmobiles
On May 27, members of TPL’s Collections & Membership Services team hosted an informative and engaging Ask Me Anything (AMA) session for staff across TPL, spanning multiple roles and divisions. The event gave staff an opportunity to learn more about how we serve customers who can’t easily access library branches and the real-world impact TPL’s Home Library Service and Bookmobiles have on Torontonians. The AMA session offered helpful knowledge and insights that staff can share with customers or use to carry out their day-to-day responsibilities more effectively.
Literacy support for vulnerable populations
Earlier this month, we hosted a conference with United for Literacy on supporting the literacy skills of individuals who are precariously housed. More than 60 staff and volunteers who work with vulnerable populations came together, including shelter staff from across the city.
Participants had the opportunity to network, share literacy and numeracy resources, and attend sessions on topics such as financial literacy, tools to support various learning needs, supporting mental health and more. TPL staff Patty Domski, Laura Freeman and Sarah Han presented a well-received session covering TPL’s resources for children, teens and adults.
After hearing about the wonderful programs and services offered by our libraries, a shelter worker immediately reached out to their local branch for more information and invited branch staff to speak at their upcoming residents’ meeting.
TPL hosts the Urban Libraries Council 2025 CEO Roundtable
More than 80 CEOs from public libraries across Canada and the United States gathered in Toronto for Urban Libraries Council’s third annual CEO Roundtable. This three-day conference, themed “Redefining Library Leadership: Measuring and Amplifying Social Impact,” explored how libraries can lead with purpose in a rapidly evolving social landscape.
The conference kicked off with a welcome reception in the Toronto Reference Library’s Appel Salon, where guests had the opportunity to tour the library and discover the wide range of resources and services available to the public.
Conference highlights included a thought-provoking session on the role of library spaces in supporting mental health and social connection, innovative approaches to intergenerational programming, and impactful discussions on leadership and advocacy for building stronger communities.
The event also offered a valuable platform for TPL to highlight its new Strategic Plan and share the compelling findings of its 2023 Social Impact Study, which illustrates the value TPL provides to Torontonians.
Commemorating International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia
On May 29, approximately 40 staff from all organizational levels participated in an in-person staff event at the Toronto Reference Library to commemorate the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, and this year’s theme, “The Power of Communities.”
Since 2004, this internationally-recognized day, held annually on May 17, draws attention to the violence and discrimination experienced by 2-Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, intersex people, and all of those with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities and/or expressions, and sex characteristics.
Staff heard an inspiring keynote from Egale Canada on “Combatting 2SLGBTQI Hate in Canada” and participated in group discussions about maintaining personal and collective well-being as TPL delivers 2SLGBTQ+ programs and services to our communities amidst the current social and political landscape.
The event was hosted by TPL’s Pride Alliance employee resource group, 2SLGBTQ+ Services Committee, and Human Resources Equity and Inclusion Team.
Supporting the rollout of TPL’s introductory AI programs
On June 5, approximately 30 TPL staff participated in a facilitator’s training session to support the rollout of our new staff-led “What is Artificial Intelligence (AI)” program.
This new introductory-level digital literacy program provides customers with an overview of how AI works and key concepts such as machine learning, large language models and algorithms. It also highlights important considerations when using generative AI applications, including privacy and vetting AI-generated outputs for accuracy and appropriateness of use.
After the training session, staff delivered a program on June 16 at the Toronto Reference Library. More programs are expected to take place at branches across the city in the near future.
Programs
Celebrating Asian Heritage Month
TPL marked Asian Heritage Month in May with a diverse mix of programs including author talks, sushi-making workshops, craft and henna workshops, musical performances, film screenings and more.
Our Chinese Canadian Archive hosted two events with award-winning author and Chinatown historian Arlene Chan. Guests listened to untold personal family stories, heard from seven local artists and explored rare archival materials from the archive. Chan also shared her journey of donating her family records in a thoughtful conversation about preserving Chinese Canadian heritage with TPL archivist Ruby Yuen and University of Toronto archivist June Chow.
On May 6, Governor General’s Literary Award winning author and illustrator Jack Wong led a virtual program for students in grades one to four, reading from his books and sharing insights into his creative process. Over 190 engaged students and educators from nine classes participated. Later in the day, Howard Wong, the Joe Shuster Award for Outstanding Canadian Comic Book Writer nominated author, hosted a lively virtual workshop on creating Asian comic book superheroes.
On May 10, Mayor Chow and Councillor Lily Cheng visited a children’s henna program at the North York Central Library. The program covered its history and traditions and included a henna application session.
TPL proudly celebrates Asian culture and heritage throughout the month – and year-round – with programs, collections, reading lists for adults, teens, children and more.
Jewish Heritage Month
Last month, TPL presented a Jewish Heritage programming series in partnership with the Miles Nadal JCC. The series celebrated Jewish arts, culture and history with events, programs and featured collections throughout Jewish Heritage Month.
Programs presented included several film screenings at branches, as well as film screenings as part of the Toronto Jewish Film Festival. On May 24 at Ethennonnhawahstihnen' branch, author Kathy Kacer discussed her book To Hope and Back. And on May 29, authors Esther Zuckerman and Ilana Kaplan talked about their books and the influence and legacy of Nora Ephron on the romantic comedy genre in a conversation at the Toronto Reference Library.
Customers are invited to join us year-round in celebrating the contributions of Jewish writers, artists and other members of the Jewish community. Curated 2025 Jewish Heritage reading lists are available for adults, teens and children, and everyone is welcome to explore the Jewish Mosaic Collection, which highlights English-language materials about Judaism and Jewish culture for all ages. The collection includes fiction and non-fiction titles about the culture, history and life experiences of Jewish communities.
Newcomer Entrepreneur in Residence helping small businesses
From late March to early May, TPL’s Spring 2025 Newcomer Entrepreneur in Residence (NEIR) supported over 100 entrepreneurs through personalized one-on-one business consultations and eight in-person workshops at Maria A. Shchuka branch.
Led by our resident Hafsa Taher, the program guided participants through core topics such as business planning, Canadian regulations and digital marketing – all tailored to the needs of the city's newcomer entrepreneurs. Participants represented a wide range of industries, including food, publishing, creative services and tech.
Feedback for the residency was overwhelmingly positive, with many participants reporting increased knowledge and greater confidence. The one-on-one consultations were praised for offering free, tailored, hands-on guidance and their role in shaping real business outcomes.
This initiative is generously supported by Lead Donor, Scotiabank, with support from Google.org and the Holdbest Foundation.
Technology
Kicking off the AI Upskilling Initiative
This past spring, we kicked off TPL’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) Upskilling Initiative to help customers increase their employability and encourage safe and informed use of AI. Over the course of the initiative, which ends in December 2026, TPL will provide all Torontonians with access to generative AI tools and skills-building programs and events, and deliver training to 11,000 customers.
In April, TPL launched its AI Essentials Learning Circles, offered virtually and in branches. Since launching, the sessions have received more than 500 visits. One learner shared, “I truly believe you've done an outstanding job of creating a fun, creative, and effective learning community. Congratulations to all my fellow learners on their participation and progress towards these learning goals!”
This fall, we’ll introduce generative AI tools at Digital Innovation Hubs, Learning Centres and Pop-Up Learning Labs across the city. We’ll also be hosting a 12-week Innovator in Residence program on AI and digital creativity; TPL’s third annual Digital Expo, themed bridging the AI divide; and our inaugural AI Summit, focused on AI and the economy.
TPL’s AI Upskilling Initiative is generously supported by Google.org’s AI Opportunity Fund, received through the TPL Foundation. The $2 million (USD) sponsorship was approved by the TPL Board in December 2024 and announced by Google.org on June 4.
Hackathon on algorithmic bias
From February through April 2025, TPL proudly supported a hackathon on algorithmic bias, organized by the Coalition of Innovation Leaders Advancing Respect (CILAR), an organization that unites Canadian tech and innovation leaders to dismantle structural racism. CILAR created the Algorithm for Change Community Hackathon to empower underrepresented Canadians to address hate speech using AI-driven solutions.
The event launched on February 7 at the Toronto Reference Library. TPL staff, participants and facilitators joined developers, data analysts, administrators, writers, civil servants, students and problem-solvers for a day of education and ideation. Teams heard from inspiring speakers, then worked together to develop solutions to problems including biased data sources, the lack of diversity in tech-sector design teams and the need for oversight of AI tools.
On April 30, teams gathered to share their completed projects. The winning team produced an AI-powered filter for online hate speech. TPL’s own Victor Szabo (Public Service Assistant) developed the project along with team members Lae Schmidt and Vishnu R., with help from TPL Senior Services Specialist Fiona O'Connor.
Specialized services
Bookmobile visits Fleet Services grand opening
On Saturday, May 24, TPL’s Bookmobile attended the grand opening of the City’s new Fleet Services building by our Ellesmere distribution centre. On hand for the event and ribbon cutting ceremony were Councillor Michael Thompson and Mayor Olivia Chow.
TPL was honoured to attend and show support for the team that keeps our TPL vehicles on the road and running smoothly. Attendees had the opportunity to tour the new facilities and see the different types of City of Toronto vehicles Fleet Services supports, from fire trucks to garbage trucks to bookmobiles. The Mayor stopped by to visit our Bookmobile and was thrilled to find a book to check out that had been on her reading list.
TPL participates in Toronto Newcomer Day
On May 28, TPL participated in the 11th annual Toronto Newcomer Day celebration at Nathan Phillips Square, which welcomes newcomers to Toronto, connects them to a wide range of services and recognizes their contributions to the city. More than 200 newcomers engaged with library staff and learned about relevant and useful TPL programs and services at the information fair. Additionally, over 80 new library cards were issued.
A special Newcomer Day program also took place at City Hall branch. Nearly 30 participants came together to learn from Indigenous storyteller Jim Adams about the history of the Indigenous peoples in Toronto. Jim encouraged kindness in the heartwarming stories he told. Participants then took part in a traditional round dance led by Jim.
Building financially resilient communities
Last month, TPL staff and partners gathered to celebrate the meaningful impact the Financial Empowerment service has made since its pilot launch in 2022. In attendance were the TPL Foundation, Prosper Canada, North York Community House (NYCH), WoodGreen and staff from our host branches.
Prompted by the need to support financial resilience amongst Torontonians, the service was designed in partnership with Prosper Canada to help low-income residents improve their financial well-being using a scalable and sustainable approach. Financial empowerment workers from community partners NYCH and WoodGreen meet one-on-one with customers to assist with tax filing, accessing government benefits, saving with limited cash flow and planning for the future.
Since its launch at our Downsview and Riverdale branches, Financial Empowerment has served over 1,350 customers, conducted nearly 2,500 one-on-one sessions and accessed more than $3.3 million dollars in benefits through tax filing and benefits applications, paving the way to support the development of financially resilient communities.
The Financial Empowerment Pilot was made possible through the generous support of donors. Learn more at tpl.ca/financialempowerment.
Leading to Reading expands to 29 branches city-wide
Leading to Reading continues to grow to meet the needs of families and volunteers across Toronto. Service resumed at Malvern and Fairview branches this spring following the completion of renovations. Ethennonnhawahstihnen’ was initially a temporary location during Fairview’s closure and will now continue to offer Leading to Reading on a regular basis in response to positive community feedback.
Leading to Reading is a free service that pairs children in grades one to six with trained volunteers for one-on-one reading support. This expansion reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting literacy and providing meaningful volunteer opportunities across the city.
Weekly sessions are now running at Malvern, Fairview and Ethennonnhawahstihnen’, in addition to our 26 other locations.
Families can apply year-round, and we’re always looking for dedicated volunteers who want to make a difference. To apply for your child or become a volunteer, visit tpl.ca/ltrkids and tpl.ca/ltr.
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