Toronto Reference Library Blog

What's going on behind all those boards at Yonge and Asquith? The re:vitalization of the city's largest public library, the Toronto Reference Library.

At 400,000 square feet, and with over 50 miles of stacks, the Toronto Reference Library first opened its doors on November 2, 1977. Its modern design and sweeping 10-storey atrium led Canadian Architect magazine to call it "…one of this country's most important 20th century buildings."

Construction at the Toronto Reference Library is progressing well:

• The foundations are being prepared for the new three-storey glass entrance Cube.
• The Gallery space renovations are continuing.
• Preparations for the green roof have begun.
• Second floor renovations are ongoing.
• Collections and services will remain available to the public. 

Every day, thousands of people use the Toronto Reference Library. It's no wonder – the Library's collections and programs support literacy, workforce readiness, small businesses and place-based economic development. Business people and the creative community use the Toronto Reference Library as they develop and grow our city. Students and scholars take advantage of its archival collections and online research tools. Foreign-trained professionals and other newcomers make extensive use of its educational and professional resources. It supports life-long learning and citizen engagement.

Visit us, check out the new changes, or even make a gift to keep one of the city's best – and free – services vital.

What's going on behind all those boards at Yonge and Asquith? The re:vitalization of the city's largest public library, the Toronto Reference Library.

At 400,000 square feet, and with over 50 miles of stacks, the Toronto Reference Library first opened its doors on November 2, 1977. Its modern design and sweeping 10-storey atrium led Canadian Architect magazine to call it "…one of this country's most important 20th century buildings."

Construction at the Toronto Reference Library is progressing well:

• The foundations are being prepared for the new three-storey glass entrance Cube.
• The Gallery space renovations are continuing.
• Preparations for the green roof have begun.
• Second floor renovations are ongoing.
• Collections and services will remain available to the public. 

Every day, thousands of people use the Toronto Reference Library. It's no wonder – the Library's collections and programs support literacy, workforce readiness, small businesses and place-based economic development. Business people and the creative community use the Toronto Reference Library as they develop and grow our city. Students and scholars take advantage of its archival collections and online research tools. Foreign-trained professionals and other newcomers make extensive use of its educational and professional resources. It supports life-long learning and citizen engagement.

Visit us, check out the new changes, or even make a gift to keep one of the city's best – and free – services vital.