Think the Toronto Public Library is just about books? Think again
· Toronto Sun
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The kids are back in school, summer vacation is over and it may be time to take another look at your local library.
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Because if you still think the Toronto Public Library is mainly about borrowing books, you’re missing a big part of the picture.
TPL has 100 branches across the city, offering a surprising range of free services and resources that go well beyond the bookshelves.
“As North America’s biggest and busiest public library system with 100 branches, Toronto Public Library is a vital community hub,” said Moe Hosseini-Ara, TPL’s city librarian and CEO.
In fact, 84% of Torontonians use the library, whether it’s to borrow books, attend a program, use public computers and free Wi-Fi or simply spend time in a welcoming public space.
“While books, both physical and digital, remain at our core, our free services go far beyond that,” Hosseini-Ara said.
Some of resources might surprise you
Need a computer? TPL has them. Need to print a resume? You can do that, too. Want to improve your digital skills or learn more about artificial intelligence? TPL offers tech and digital literacy help, including AI upskilling.
Job seekers can use virtual interview rooms. Creators can access recording studios and Adobe Creative Suite. Some branches also offer 3-D printers.
Kids can take part in after-school clubs offering free activities such as make-and-take projects, coding and robotics workshops. Teens have access to youth hubs with staff available to help. Free nutritious snacks are also offered daily.
For newcomers and English-language learners, TPL offers programs and support. Job seekers can get help with their search, while small-business owners can find programs to build their skills.
Why free access matters
“For many people, free access to these resources isn’t a nice-to-have — it’s the only access they have,” Hosseini-Ara said.
“Cost can be one of the biggest barriers to skill building, job readiness, recreational activities and eliminating the digital divide.”
A student without a computer at home can use one at the library to do homework. Someone looking for work can write and print a resume, use a virtual interview room or take an AI upskilling program. A newcomer can get help with a job search and practice English.
And they don’t have to figure everything out alone.
“They can receive all these services with expert library staff support,” Hosseini-Ara said. “The library can be a bridge to opportunities that otherwise would be out of reach.”
Surprisingly wide range of things you can borrow or use
But perhaps the most fun thing about today’s TPL is how wide-ranging its collection has become.
Think sewing machines. Museum passes . Musical instruments. Yes, musical instruments.
“I’ll bet most people would be surprised to learn they can borrow an electric guitar with a library card,” Hosseini-Ara said.
Guitars are some of the instruments available through TPL’s Musical Instrument Lending Library , giving Torontonians a chance to explore music without spending hundreds of dollars on an instrument.
“I love the program because it provides free access to arts education and creative expression,” he said.
TPL also offers tech kits and birding kits. The library is also preparing for the municipal election through its Celebrate Democracy initiative , which offers resources to help Torontonians understand the issues, learn about candidates and take part in the democratic process.
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‘True community hubs’
Hosseini-Ara admitted it’s tough to choose one standout service.
“Choosing just one service is a bit like picking a favourite child,” he said.
The bigger point is that the public library of 2026 looks very different from the quiet building many of us remember from our childhood. Books are still there. They’re not going anywhere.
But these days, your library card can also open the door to technology, music, job-search support, creative tools and learning opportunities.
“That kind of range says public libraries have become true community hubs,” Hosseini-Ara said, “places that bring people together and open the door to a vast range of opportunities — expanding access to experiences that many people couldn’t otherwise afford.”
For more details on Toronto Public Library’s free programs and services, visit tpl.ca .