News Releases- Toronto Public Library

Celebrating Black History Month at the Library

Free programs, concerts & movies at branches across the city

TORONTO (Thursday, January 26, 2012) – Toronto Public Library invites all Torontonians to celebrate Black History Month at branches across the city during February with drumming, poetry, films and music, and much more.

Program highlights this year include an educational series, Makers of Black History in Canada featuring four women of distinction, Rita Cox, The Honourable Jean Augustine, Rosemary Sadlier and Dr. Althea Prince. Fabulous free concerts are also planned with the award-winning duo, Diana Braithwaite and Chris Whiteley performing Sugar and Gold, their blues tribute to Canada’s African Diaspora.

Toronto Public Library is partnering this year with the National Film Board of Canada to present Mighty Jerome by acclaimed filmmaker Charles Officer, who will be on hand for screenings at libraries across the city.

And there's much more! Check out these free events at branches across the city:

• Visit with CBC News Toronto host Dwight Drummond
• Screening of the Best Canadian Feature from HOT DOCS 2010, Invisible City
• Mutadi will perform Heartbeat at five locations
• Concerts with Roger Gibbs, Vernal Banton and Tsingory Dance
• Stories with J. Nichole Noel, Sandra Whiting, Phyllis Walker and Adwoa Badoe
• Poetry with Dwayne Morgan and Michael St. George.
• Drumming with Njacko Backo, Muhtadi, Mystic Drumz and Fule Badoe
• And discover the richness of Toronto Public Library’s Rita Cox Black & Caribbean Heritage Collections, located in four convenient locations across the city.  

Black History Month at Toronto Public Library is generously supported by RBC Foundation.

For more information and a complete list of all Black History Month events, pick up a Black History Month event guide and recommended reading list at any Toronto Public Library branch, call Answerline at (416) 393-7131, or check torontopubliclibrary.ca.  

Toronto Public Library is one of the world's busiest urban public library systems. Every year, more than 19 million people visit our branches in neighbourhoods across the city and borrow over 33 million items. To learn more about Toronto Public Library, visit our website at torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

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Media Contact:

Anne Marie Aikins 416-393-7212

media@torontopubliclibrary.ca  

Toronto Public Library Hosts Discussion with Michael Ondaatje and Daniel Brooks on Transforming "Divisadero" into a Play

Free event with Michael Ondaatje Jan. 9

TORONTO (Tuesday, January 3, 2012) – Toronto Public Library is pleased to announce that David S. Young, Toronto Reference Library Playwright-in-Residence will interview acclaimed Canadian author Michael Ondaatje and theatre director Daniel Brooks about the adaptation of Ondaatje's novel Divisadero into Divisadero: A Performance.

Everyone is welcome; the event is being held Monday, Jan. 9, 2012, 7:00 – 8:30 pm at Toronto Reference Library. It is free and no pre-registration required. Please join us for this very special evening of Canadian literature and theatre in discussion of Divisadero and how it came to life onstage.

Michael Ondaatje, who was honoured with the Governor General's Literary Award, 2007, set the story partly in the gambling parlours of California and Nevada, and a village in south-central France. Ondaatje collaborated with Daniel Brooks, the artistic director of Necessary Angel Theatre Company, to adapt his novel Divisadero - a “violent and passionate story exploring themes of memory, identity, love and the grip of the past on the present.” The story is an “examination of the intimate relationship between the speaker and the listener, and of language's ability to weave a magical spell." (Necessary Angel Theatre Company)

Due to the success of the show in 2011, the play will run again at Theatre Passe Muraille, February 8 – 26, 2012. Necessary Angel is giving everyone who attends the event at Toronto Reference Library January 9 a $5 discount coupon on tickets.

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit our branches in neighbourhoods across the city and borrow over 32 million items. To learn more about Toronto Public Library, visit our website at torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

 

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Media Contact:

Anne Marie Aikins 416-393-7212

media@torontopubliclibrary.ca 

Jodi Picoult Tops Circulation Charts

Sing You Home most often borrowed book of 2011

TORONTO (Thursday, December 29, 2011) – As another busy year draws to a close, Toronto Public Library looked back through its 2011 circulation records to see what the most frequently borrowed titles were. Bestselling author Jodi Picoult’s new release in early 2011 topped the year’s adult fiction circulation charts with Sing You Home, a story that explores gay rights, coping with loss and finding love in unexpected places. The book was circulated an incredible 4,580 times in 2011!

In 2010, more than 18 million people visited and over 32 million items were circulated at Toronto Public Library—the busiest year ever! And 2011 is on track to push those record numbers even higher thanks in part to the increasing popularity of ebooks. Providing a diverse selection of digital content has brought new customers into the library and extended the reach for published materials, cultural programming and educational opportunities.

Happy New Year and all the best in 2012 from City Librarian Jane Pyper and all the staff at Toronto Public Library.  

Top Circulating Titles of 2011

Print: 

Adult fiction - Sing You Home by Jodi Picoult

Adult non-fiction - Bossypants by Tina Fey

Teen - The Gathering by Kelley Armstrong (Cdn)

Children’s - Quest for the Spark by Tom Sniegoski (Cdn)

 

Ebooks:

Adult fiction - The Paris Wife by Paula McLain

Adult non-fiction - Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother by Amy Chua

Teen - Breaking Dawn by Stephanie Meyer

Children’s - Eragon by Christopher Paolini

 

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit our branches in neighbourhoods across the city and borrow more than 32 million items. To learn more about Toronto Public Library, visit our website at torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

 

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Media Contact:

Anne Marie Aikins 416-393-7212

media@torontopubliclibrary.ca  

Library Board Approves 5.9% Budget Reduction

For immediate release:

TORONTO (Tuesday, December 13, 2011) – The Toronto Public Library Board met late into the evening last night for the final meeting of the board for 2011. After hearing from 20 deputants, the Board approved the Library’s 2012 operating budget request achieving a 5.9% reduction.

Highlights of Dec. 12 meeting of the Board:

2012 Library Operating Budget

The Board approved a $164.482 million operating budget request for 2012 which represents a 5.9% reduction over 2011. The Board acknowledged the importance of maintaining branch open hours and collections, as well as the library’s programs and services. They voted to seek additional revenues through increased auditorium, meeting room and theatre rentals fees and a fee for holds not picked up. The board also approved the implementation of four additional automated sorters in 2012.  The library operating budget will now be considered by the City’s Budget and Executive Committees, and will be approved by City Council in January.

Public Consultation Regarding Potential Service Reductions

The City Librarian presented the results of the public consultation on the impacts to residents and communities of potential reductions to library collections and open hours as requested by the Library Board as context for review of the 2012 operating budget submission. Public consultation included an in-branch and online survey and thirteen public meetings.

There were 9,316 surveys received, and 800 residents participated in public meetings held by the Library. Responses indicated that reductions to library collections and open hours would impact usage of library service in communities across the city. Concerns were communicated about the broader impacts of these reductions on literacy, learning and access to affordable culture and recreation.

Book Lovers Ball

Toronto Public Library Foundation updated the board on its 7^th annual Book Lovers Ball on February 9, 2012 to enhance Library programs and services. 

Next Meeting

The next meeting of the Library Board is scheduled for January 30, 2012 at 6:00 pm at Toronto Reference Library.

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit our branches in neighbourhoods across the city and borrow more than 32 million items. To learn more about Toronto Public Library, visit our website at torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

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Media Contact:

Anne Marie Aikins 416-393-7212

media@torontopubliclibrary.ca  

5th Annual First & Best Booklist for 2011 Top Canadian books for children from birth to five

TORONTO (Wednesday, November 23, 2011) - Toronto Public Library is pleased to announce the fifth annual First & Best Booklist 2011, a selection of the very best in Canadian books for children from birth to age five that are fun to read and also help build early literacy skills. 

 

This year’s list includes some of the country’s top Canadian children’s authors, and several are new to the First and Best List, including Frank Viva (Along a Long Road), Sheryl and Simon Shapiro (Better Together), Elisa Amado (What Are You Doing?), and Geneviève Côté (Without You).

 

“As the world’s busiest urban public library system, the Toronto Public Library plays an important role in helping parents and caregivers build early literacy skills and the love of reading in their children,” says Lisa Heggum, Children and Youth Advocate for Library Services at Toronto Public Library. “Parents are going to love reading this year’s selection of books with their little ones, as they represent some of the best that Canadian children’s publishing has to offer.”

 

In addition to helping build reading readiness in preschool children, the library’s First and Best List also helps to promote Canadian children’s literature, and is highly anticipated by authors and publishers each year.

 

“[Being on the First & Best booklist is]… a stamp of approval from one of the most respected institutions around … and is invaluable for parents and caregivers looking to introduce quality books to their children,” says Brigitte Waisberg, Marketing Manager at Annick Press, one of the featured publishers on the list.

 

“It is excellent company to be in… I am honoured and delighted when one of my books is included in the library’s First and Best List. I know that the books selected for this list attract positive attention not only from parents and kids, but from other library associations, school boards and media both in Canada and internationally,” says author Barbara Reid.

 

All the books in this year’s First & Best list are available through the library’s online catalogue, KidsSpace and at library branches across the city. First and Best is part of the Ready for Reading program offered by Toronto Public Library to help parents and caregivers build early literacy skills in their children through fun, everyday activities at home and at the library.

 

 

The First & Best for 2011 are:

 

Along a Long Road

Frank Viva

HarperCollins

 

Better Together

Sheryl and Simon Shapiro, illustrated by Dušan Petričić

Annick

 

Caramba and Henry

Marie-Louise Gay

Groundwood

 

Cinnamon Baby

Nicola Winstanley, illustrated by Janice Nadeau

Kids Can Press

 

Cookiebot!:  A Harry and Horsie Adventure

Katie Van Camp, illustrated by Lincoln Agnew

HarperCollins

 

Ones and Twos

Marthe Jocelyn and Nell Jocelyn

Tundra

 

Picture a Tree

Barbara Reid

Scholastic

 

Red Wagon

Renata Liwska

Penguin

 

What Are You Doing?

Elisa Amado, illustrated by Manuel Monroy

Groundwood

 

Without You

Geneviève Côté

Kids Can Press

 

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit our branches in neighbourhoods across the city and borrow more than 32 million items. To learn more about Toronto Public Library, visit our website at torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

 

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Media Contact:

Michelle Leung 416-397-5936

media@torontopubliclibrary.ca  

Library Board Recommends Maintaining Branch Open Hours

Summary of Library Board Decisions

TORONTO (Tuesday, November 22, 2011) – The Toronto Public Library Board met last night and recommended maintaining library operating hours. The following decisions were made:

Operating Budget

The Board recommended maintaining branch open hours at their current levels, and asked City Librarian Jane Pyper to report back at the next meeting of the Board on December 12 with revenue generating and cost saving ideas that will assist the library in meeting its 10% reduction target. The Board asked that these recommendations include adjustments to the library’s service delivery model of up to 60 FTEs (full time equivalent staff positions). The Board had previously adopted the recommended service efficiencies and additional revenue opportunities, which equal $9.72 million of savings, or 5.7% of the 10% City target reductions. The Board deferred a decision on the further $7.327 million reductions to achieve the total 10% reduction target until the December 12 Board meeting.

A motion was passed to request that the Toronto Public Library Foundation help fund the library’s collection budget, and another motion requested that library staff consider shared services such as finance and human resources with the City.

Room Rental Fee Increase

The Board passed a new room rental policy and fee increase for public rentals of library auditoriums, theatres and meeting rooms, which will be implemented in the first quarter of 2012, with the theatre rate increase being phased over three years in three equal steps. The new fees will apply to all new bookings placed after the new fee rates take effect.

Strategic Plan 2012 - 2015

The Board approved a structure, process and timeline to create a new strategic plan for Toronto Public Library for the years 2012 - 2015; 2011 is the final year of the current strategic plan Our Shared Stories: Writing the Future of Toronto’s Library 2008

- 2011. A new strategic plan will establish service priorities for the next four years and fulfill the Board’s legislated mandate “to provide a comprehensive and efficient public library service that reflects the community’s unique needs.” 

For more information about the Toronto Public Library Board, visit http://www.torontopubliclibrary.ca/about-the-library/board/ 

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit our branches in neighbourhoods across the city and borrow more than 32 million items. To learn more about Toronto Public Library, visit our website at torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

 

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Media Contact:

Anne Marie Aikins 416-393-7212

media@torontopubliclibrary.ca  

Check Out a Human Book & Get Inspired

Library hosts popular human library Nov. 5

TORONTO (Tuesday, November 1, 2011) –Toronto Public Library will be hosting the popular Human Library again this year at four branches across the city to give people the opportunity to walk in someone else’s shoes for a few minutes and learn something new.   

This year’s Human Library, funded by the Toronto Public Library Foundation, will take place on Saturday, November 5 at Toronto Reference Library, North York Central, Richview and Cedarbrae. The collection of human books includes titles on important and timely subjects such as bullying, living with a chronic illness and surviving cancer, following your dreams and launching your own business, city voices and city champions.

There are books about caring for a dying loved one and the impact of natural disasters. And in honour of Remembrance Day, there are books about the human tragedy of military conflict. Human books in the collection, which is multi-lingual with human books available in seven languages, can be placed on hold with just a library card by calling or coming into one of the host branches. Spots may also be available the day of the event but people are encouraged to place a hold on their favourite book early to avoid disappointment. For more information: www.torontopubliclibrary.ca/humanlibrary

What:                         Human Library

Date:                          Saturday, November 5, 2011

Time:                          12:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Locations:                    Toronto Reference Library (789 Yonge St, north of Bloor)

                                    North York Central (5120 Yonge St, by Sheppard)

                                    Richview (1806 Islington Ave, north of Eglinton)      

                                    Cedarbrae (545 Markham Road, south of Lawrence)

Browse the collection at each of the branches:

Toronto Reference Library

North York Central

Richview

Cedarbrae

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit branches in neighbourhoods across the city and borrow more than 32 million items. As cornerstones of their neighbourhoods, our libraries connect people to each other and to their community, inspiring the spirit of exploration, the joy of reading and the pursuit of knowledge for people of all ages and backgrounds. To learn more, please visit www.torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

 

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Media Contact:

Anne Marie Aikins, Manager, Community Relations, 416-393-7212 aaikins@torontopubliclibrary.ca

Human Books are available for interviews

Check Out a Human Book at Cedarbrae & Get Inspired

Library hosts popular human library Nov. 5

TORONTO (Tuesday, November 1, 2011) –Toronto Public Library will be hosting the popular Human Library again this year at four branches across the city to give people the opportunity to walk in someone else’s shoes for a few minutes and learn something new.   

One of this year’s branches to host the Human Library, which is funded by the Toronto Public Library Foundation, is Cedarbrae Branch. The Human Library will take place on Saturday, November 5 from Noon – 5:00 pm.

The public can place a hold on a must-read human book with just their library card by calling (416-396-8850) or by coming into the branch. Spots may also be available the day of the event but people are encouraged to place a hold on their favourite book early to avoid disappointment.

Check out the collection of human books at Cedarbrae below.

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit branches in neighbourhoods across the city and borrow more than 32 million items. As cornerstones of their neighbourhoods, our libraries connect people to each other and to their community, inspiring the spirit of exploration, the joy of reading and the pursuit of knowledge for people of all ages and backgrounds. To learn more, please visit www.torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

 

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Media Contact:

Anne Marie Aikins, Manager, Community Relations, 416-393-7212 aaikins@torontopubliclibrary.ca

Human Books are available for interviews.

 

Cedarbrae Human Books

 

Haille Bailey-Harris

"Bullied But Not Defeated"

Haille Bailey-Harris may be only 17, but his life experiences have given him the wisdom of someone much older. Haille grew up in a small town the only black kid in his school and suffered from frequent bullying. His Mom, a sole support parent moved with him to Toronto to help him escape the racism and the low expectations of a school system that expected him to fail. Haille struggled without a father figure in his life, but he challenged the stereotypes through a network of support and a love of books. He will share with borrowers his family's strategy that helped him cope.

 

Eldon Comfort

"Fighting Battles as a Peacemaker"

Dr. Eldon Comfort, 98, was a lieutenant in the Royal Canadian Corps of Signals in World War II, serving in France, Belgium, Holland and Germany. He has also been a teacher and a politician, so he knows how to fight his battles. This human book, however, is not about war; he's all about peacekeeping and explains in amazing detail how his experience with military conflict turned him into a peace activist.

In one of his later chapters, Eldon talks about the first time he went to Nicaragua in 1984 to satisfy a curiosity about the conflicting perceptions of that country's new socialist government. He returned each year for the next six years on a variety of humanitarian projects and in 1990, he was an official United Nations observer for the national elections there. This is just one of the incredible journeys this award-winning book will share with his borrowers.

 

Yasmin Hartung

"Appreciating Life Even When It's Painful"

Yasmin Hartung and her brother were inseparable. She left home at 17 to join him in Switzerland where the siblings lived, worked, and travelled together. In 2004, Yasmin then joined her brother in Montreal to study at Concordia University. While in Montreal, their lives took an unexpected turn when Yasmin's brother was diagnosed with an acute form of leukemia.

At 21, she became his primary caregiver and was even his stem cell donor while continuing her studies and helping her brother live as normal a life as possible. Despite their valiant efforts, Yasmin's brother died; his body had had enough, she says. This human book will be able to share her strategy for navigating the health care system and appreciating life even when it's painful.

Heather Jopling "Modern Families" This book defined 'modern family' long before the television sit-com became so popular, and she helps people feel more accepting and open to differences. Heather Jopling's husband was a sperm donor for their lesbian friends and she was a surrogate for their gay friends. While pregnant as a surrogate, she began writing diversity-friendly children's stories to give reading alternatives, not only to same-sex families, but to families like her own; open-minded and eager to share inclusive ideas with their children. "We have split families, bi-racial families and so-called 'traditional' families in our own incredible family tree," Heather says. In 2006, she formed her own publishing company, Nickname Press. And, as if she didn't already have enough chapters, Heather has also performed Shakespeare as a clown, and written four one-woman shows, several screenplays and the libretto to a vampire rock opera.

Jenypher Lanthier "Fighting Words" Jenypher Lanthier's story is for anyone who feels intimidated by the unknown and wants to learn how to find the courage to take a leap of faith. Jenypher was looking for a new adventure, something different in her life, she says. "To challenge myself, I tried my first Muay Thai class. The rest is a story about an organic progression towards personal fulfillment." Although new territory for her, she was hooked on Muay Thai, which is a combat sport from Thailand, and decided to open up her own school - York Muay Thai Inc. - two years ago. Jenypher looks forward to sharing with you all the challenges she encountered, not only as an entrepreneur, but also as one of the only women trying to survive in a male-dominated martial arts industry.

Scott Mills "Fighting Crime with Facebook" This human book is a textbook case for using 140 characters to get your message across. Scott Mills has been a police officer for 21 years, from 1990-2002 with Peel Regional Police in Mississauga and Brampton, and from 2002-present with Toronto Police Service. He has a background in all types of policing from gang investigations, to work in schools, and is widely known for his work using relationships and technology, in particular Facebook, Twitter and YouTube, to help prevent and solve crime together with the community. Borrowers will discover a new, cyber approach to law enforcement and crime prevention.

Diana Provenzano "Navigating Life's Challenges" This human book has travelled around the world-visiting over 30 countries and filling its pages with wonderful memories. Diana Provenzano is also a chartered accountant operating her own practice in Toronto, prepares tax returns for low income people and new immigrants pro bono, and a very active volunteer with a variety of organizations. Diana has such a full, outgoing life in spite of the fact she has lived with Type One Diabetes for 30 years. "Diabetes or other chronic illnesses don't have to stop you from doing anything you want with your life provided you understand the disease and manage it well," she says.

John "Ozzie" Sequeira "Surviving on Faith" John "Ozzie" Sequeira has depended on his faith to survive advanced prostate cancer and quadruple blocks in his heart for the past dozen years. He has now made it his mission in life to educate others about early detection so people get early treatment and the best chance of survival. Ozzie is an active volunteer with the Canadian Cancer Society, working with Wendel Clark to promote awareness. His first book, "The Alpha and Omega," was published a year and a half ago. This book, which is available in multiple languages, including English, Hindi, Kannada, Konkani and Urdu, will help you believe in miracles.

 

Check Out a Human Book at Richview & Get Inspired

Library hosts popular human library Nov. 5

TORONTO (Tuesday, November 1, 2011) –Toronto Public Library will be hosting the popular Human Library again this year at four branches across the city to give people the opportunity to walk in someone else’s shoes for a few minutes and learn something new.   

One of this year’s branches to host the Human Library, which is funded by the Toronto Public Library Foundation, is Richview Branch. The Human Library will take place on Saturday, November 5 from Noon – 5:00 pm.

The public can place a hold on a must-read human book with just their library card by calling (416-394-5120) or by coming into the branch. Spots may also be available the day of the event but people are encouraged to place a hold on their favourite book early to avoid disappointment.

Check out the collection of human books at Richview below.

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit branches in neighbourhoods across the city and borrow more than 32 million items. As cornerstones of their neighbourhoods, our libraries connect people to each other and to their community, inspiring the spirit of exploration, the joy of reading and the pursuit of knowledge for people of all ages and backgrounds. To learn more, please visit www.torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

 

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Media Contact:

Anne Marie Aikins, Manager, Community Relations, 416-393-7212 aaikins@torontopubliclibrary.ca

Human Books are available for interviews.

 

Richview Human Books 

Christine Brown

"Walking the Talk"

Christine Brown is a two-time cancer survivor and her 30 years as an educator and counsellor have helped her through her battles with the awareness that "connection to self has value in this process." Currently, she leads therapy groups year round and provides individual and couples therapy as well. Christine's "talk shops" cover self development and assertive communication. She hopes her personal experiences and ability to communicate them openly will offer borrowers the chance to address their fears and concerns more comfortably.

 

Amy Chan

"Living Life Urgently When Cancer Hits"

When Amy Chan was diagnosed with breast cancer three years ago at the age of 38, she didn't spend any time asking 'Why me'. Instead she asked 'Why not me'.

"I cried the first day and also comforted friends who cried for me," Amy says in her excerpt, which is available in both English and Cantonese. "Cancer made me realize that life can change in a split second," she said, so she lives life "urgently" with gratitude and a positive attitude. Amy is now a survivor and peer support volunteer with the Canadian Cancer Society.

 

Sommer Ellis

"When Life Gives You Lemons"

In 2004, Sommer Ellis was a teenager and had just been accepted to the University of Western Ontario when she became part of a growing statistic - young people being diagnosed with cancer. She was lucky to have been diagnosed early as it is often overlooked in teenagers. "With my parents by my side I was given the shocking news that I had Hodgkin's Lymphoma," Sommer says in her foreward. "After the words 'cancer' came out of her mouth, the rest of the appointment is a blur."

She now attempts to live each day to the fullest and will share her belief that everything happens for a reason. A public relations professional, Sommer is also an active Canadian Cancer Society volunteer; runs a bursary program for young adult cancer survivors through a grassroots charity called INFUSION Canada; and a kid coach through Future Possibilities for Kids.

 

Jeffrey Gruchy

"Building a Healthy Future for Seniors"

Through both personal and professional avenues, Jeff Gruchy relentlessly strives to spread his passion for health and wellness especially when it comes to seniors. With varying experiences across sectors here and overseas, Jeff has firmly re-planted his roots in Toronto and is actively pursuing ways to build a stronger, more sustainable GTA region through his work at the Healthier Living Centre, Downsview Services for Seniors.

"It can keep me up at night worrying about isolated older adults and how to effectively reach out to them," Jeff says in his foreword. But after borrowers hear his stories they will come away feeling refreshed and optimistic about the future of young professionals in our city. 

 

Kanika Gupta

"Social Entrepreneurs Creating Change"

Change happens one person at a time, says Kanika Gupta, who is currently behind SoJo, an innovative online learning tool that helps youth passionate about social change to accelerate their ideas and initiate social ventures.

She founded Nukoko, a Canadian non-profit organization that makes primary education accessible for young girls in rural West Africa. Highly engaged in civic issues and community development, Kanika has worked with the United Nations Development Programme, Canadian International Development Agency, Canadian House of Commons, and grassroots NGOs in West Africa and India.

"These experiences as a social entrepreneur have taught me that individuals are capable of making a difference at a grassroots level, and if supported can make significant change happen," Kanika says. This human book is available in both English and French.

 

Dominika Milewska

"Living in a Body That Fails You"

This book is younger than you might expect!

Dominika Milewska has been living with Rheumatoid Arthritis for the last ten years. "As a young woman, I could not believe I was being diagnosed with an old person's disease," she says. "Come join me in a conversation about young people living with Rheumatoid Arthritis and help me break the silence about living with chronic pain."

When she was diagnosed, she learned quickly that arthritis affects not only millions of people but people of all ages. As a young person, Dominika struggles with chronic pain and the physical assistance she needs, and the impact they has had on her social life and mental health. She has struggled with depression, especially when first diagnosed, as she came to terms with the changes in her life as a result of her illness. This book helps break a few stereotypes about people living with chronic illness.

 

Check Out a Human Book at TRL & Get Inspired

Library hosts popular human library Nov. 5

 

TORONTO (Tuesday, November 1, 2011) –Toronto Public Library will be hosting the popular Human Library again this year at four branches across the city to give people the opportunity to walk in someone else’s shoes for a few minutes and learn something new.   

One of this year’s branches to host the Human Library, which is funded by the Toronto Public Library Foundation, is Toronto Reference Library. The Human Library will take place on Saturday, November 5 from Noon – 5:00 pm.

 The public can place a hold on a must-read human book with just their library card by calling (416-395-5575) or by coming into the branch. Spots may also be available the day of the event but people are encouraged to place a hold on their favourite book early to avoid disappointment.

 Check out the collection of human books at Toronto Reference Library below.

 Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit branches in neighbourhoods across the city and borrow more than 32 million items. As cornerstones of their neighbourhoods, our libraries connect people to each other and to their community, inspiring the spirit of exploration, the joy of reading and the pursuit of knowledge for people of all ages and backgrounds. To learn more, please visit www.torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

 

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Media Contact:

Anne Marie Aikins, Manager, Community Relations, 416-393-7212 aaikins@torontopubliclibrary.ca

Human Books are available for interviews.

 

Toronto Reference Library Human Books

Lyndsay Crump "Climbing a Cancerous Mountain" In 2004, Lyndsay Crump was granted a full scholarship to Lester Pearson United World College, a prestigious higher level program in British Columbia for international students (and 10 Canadians) showing potential in global leadership. Before she had a chance to follow this dream, she was diagnosed with cancer followed by two gruelling years of chemotherapy, radiation and surgery including a stem cell transplant. Considering herself a "lucky" girl, Lyndsay proudly calls herself happy and a firm believer in the notion that "what doesn't kill you makes you stronger." She is now nearly finished an Honours BA in psychology, has her eye on graduate school, and is saving for a trip to climb Kilimanjaro. But the biggest mountain she has climbed? She is now five years cancer free!

Beth Follett "Peddling the Integrity of Book Publishing" Beth Follett is the sole owner and publisher of Pedlar Press, a Canadian literary publishing house based in Toronto, which she started in 1996. Formerly in social work, she is a published writer and freelance editor, has studied modern dance and now keeps a mindfulness-meditation and yoga practice. Borrowers of Beth will come away from their time browsing through her life chapters knowing a little bit more about what integrity and excellence in publishing (or in any business practice) mean to her, and a little bit more about how mindfulness practice has helped her as a woman entrepreneur in the arts.

Jeff Harrison "Putting the Fun into Journalism" Jeff Harrison, a Toronto-based freelance writer and editor, is a book translated into English and French. With over 14 years experience in the industry, Jeff has worked on stories for video games, penned articles for newspapers and magazines and is currently finishing his first novel. A geek at heart, he loves everything sci-fi, fantasy and horror, especially comics and vampires. Currently he works as the editor-in-chief for Pink Play Mags, Toronto's fresh LGBTQ quarterly life-style magazine. You'll also have fun talking to this human book about his travels to exotic locales on assignment.

Andrea Houston "Getting up Close and Personal" Andrea Houston is a dogged investigative reporter doing what she calls "advocacy journalism" for Xtra Canada. Andrea gets up close and personal with her stories. "I exposed one of the largest queer human rights stories of the past five years," she says in her foreword, "the Catholic school board's ban on gay-straight alliances (GSA)." She is now working hard to support students trying to start GSAs and keep the issue in the headlines. Over the past year Andrea has covered the municipal and federal elections and is now a familiar face around City Hall covering city politics. Before starting at Xtra, Andrea was in the trenches as a mainstream reporter, covering education, city politics and community news for a variety of media outlets including Reuters at their headquarters in London, England. This book will give you the guts to take a stand.

Vani Jain "Seeing Through the Pain" Every page of the book of Vani Jain is filled with discrimination, sadness and pain, stories she has heard during her work with people dealing with mental illness. Yet she sees hope, strength and optimism for the future within these stories because of the courageous people she has met at the Schizophrenia Society of Ontario. "One of the first people I met was a woman named Kelly," Vani says in an excerpt. "Kelly's younger brother, who had undiagnosed and untreated schizophrenia, killed both of their parents while in a psychotic state. What touched me most about meeting and getting to know Kelly was not the act itself, which was truly sad, but her compassion for her brother...her determination to make sure this didn't happen to anyone else." Vani is thankful for the time she has spent working with marginalized people and would like to tell her story "through the eyes of someone who is in many ways an outsider, but who has had the privilege to spend some time with these beautiful, strong, hopeful people."

Nicholas Maharaj "Crime Fighting Cyber Tools" Nicholas Maharaj may still be a teenager, but experiencing the sudden death of his high school buddy last year due to gun violence turned him into a crime fighting activist. Nicholas, now a student at Centennial College Police Foundations, uses social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter to help promote the Crime Stoppers program. The encouragement of Toronto Police Service Constable Scott Mills (another human book speaker, at Cedarbrae Branch) is one of the main reasons why Nicholas started to help the police by spreading his cyber message to his peers about prevention. "If more people were educated in the anonymous program, which is not operated by the police, but by us, the community would be a safer place to live," he says.

Shawn Micallef "Stroll Through Toronto" Urbanists and urban lovers know this human book very well, but his chapters are a must read for everyone. Shawn Micallef is a well-known Toronto writer and author who is currently on leave as Senior Magazine Editor of spacing to pursue a Canadian Journalism Fellowship at the University of Toronto's Massey College. Shawn is researching urbanism while at Massey. His popular book, Stroll: Psychogeographic Walking Tours of Toronto, makes it clear that Shawn sees his city as a "living book" full of stories waiting to be told. Taking him out on loan will be an opportunity to hear some of those amazing stories.

Catherine Porter "Finding Hope Within the Rubble" Most people watched helplessly when a catastrophic earthquake devastated Haiti last year. Not this human book. Instead of reporting safely from her home, Toronto Star journalist Catherine Porter immediately packed her bags, leaving her young family behind to tell the story first hand. Catherine recently returned from Haiti again - her ninth trip - which "like all the others, was inspiring, exhausting and devastating," she said. Though she never once appealed to her readers for support, her stories, especially of determined little "Lovely", prompted many to want to help. Cash came flooding in, which Catherine used to send children to school, and provide food and medical aid. Inspired, Catherine committed to raising $26,000 for Muspan Montessori School, so 400 students could attend for the next year. She surpassed her goal. This human book may be a life changing read!

Chris Upfold "Facing the Transit Talk" This human book covers brave new territory never before explored! At a time when public scrutiny is just a cell phone pic away, Chris Upfold became Toronto Transit Commission's first Chief Customer Service Officer earlier this year. Prior to joining the TTC, Chris worked for Transport for London and London Underground in England where he helped make measureable improvements to customer information, customer security, ticketing and smartcards, non-fares revenue, station design, staff engagement, and accessibility and inclusion. "The TTC's customers are the citizens of Toronto and those are the same people that use Toronto libraries," Chris says in his foreword. "Reaching out to customers to help them understand our issues and us understand theirs will be critical in once again making Toronto proud of the TTC and building advocacy for funding."

Donovan Vincent "Curiosity Got the Career" Mercenary, undercover spy, captain of industry, inventor, death-defying magician. Apparently, none of these things describe the human book called Donovan Vincent, the foreword warns. However, this respected Toronto Star journalist is still extremely compelling, his critics and readers say. Donovan pursued a career in journalism, because one of his high school English teachers suggested he consider it as a profession. "She told me she liked my writing and that I was very curious, two important skills for a journalist." He later went on to write for his university newspaper at York, Excalibur, which was a thrill, he said, because he loved seeing his name in the paper on a great story. Donovan joined the Toronto Star as a summer intern in the late 1980s, and has written thousands of stories, some of them leading to changes in policy direction at the municipal and provincial levels. The stories he's most proud of, though, are the ones with unique and compelling human interest elements, which he hopes to share as a human book.

 

Check Out a Human Book at North York Central & Get Inspired

Library hosts popular human library Nov. 5

 

TORONTO (Tuesday, November 1, 2011) –Toronto Public Library will be hosting the popular Human Library again this year at four branches across the city to give people the opportunity to walk in someone else’s shoes for a few minutes and learn something new.   

One of this year’s branches to host the Human Library, which is funded by the Toronto Public Library Foundation, is North York Central Library. The Human Library will take place on Saturday, November 5 from Noon – 5:00 pm.

The public can place a hold on a must-read human book with just their library card by calling (416-395-5535) or by coming into the branch. Spots may also be available the day of the event but people are encouraged to place a hold on their favourite book early to avoid disappointment.

Check out the collection of human books at North York Central below.

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit branches in neighbourhoods across the city and borrow more than 32 million items. As cornerstones of their neighbourhoods, our libraries connect people to each other and to their community, inspiring the spirit of exploration, the joy of reading and the pursuit of knowledge for people of all ages and backgrounds. To learn more, please visit www.torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

 

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Media Contact:

Anne Marie Aikins, Manager, Community Relations, 416-393-7212 aaikins@torontopubliclibrary.ca

Human Books are available for interviews.

 

North York Central Human Books

 

Heather Copeland "Giving Strength to Caregivers" Heather Copeland, whose mother is a three-time survivor of cancer, has grown up with the knowledge and compassion it takes to be able to help someone through a difficult time in their lives. After taking care of her mother, Heather was inspired to begin volunteering for the Canadian Cancer Society as a mentor to those who are caring for people going through cancer diagnosis and treatment.  "I would hope that those who borrow me would gain insight into the difficulties this diagnosis comes with and an appreciation for the organizations that are out there to help you when you're in need," Heather explains.

David Demchuk "The Life of a Gay Knitter" Originally from Winnipeg, David Demchuk is a writer for theatre, film, print and online media, and is an activist working on social, cultural and political issues affecting the lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and queer communities. "I've had numerous mind-changing - and sometimes life-changing - encounters with people who opened my eyes to other ways of living and being, and I'd happily return the favour," David explains in his foreword. Check out David's stories about what it meant to be gay in the 1970s, through the age of AIDS and in our world today, and ask whatever questions you may have about gay sexuality and relationships, the role of activism in a healthy democracy, the human rights challenges we still face, politics and social media - and how to knit (yes, this book is also a how-to-text for knitting!).

Steve Ferrara and Lisa Martin "Creatively Drawing People In" Steve Ferrara and Lisa Martin head up Well and Good, an independent art service organization based in Toronto. Established in 2007, this two-book set - three if you count their new baby Metta, who will be observing - are passionate about the potential of art, especially street art to engage people and enrich lives. As a cultural agency, they participate in all parts of the "creative chain to maintain a dynamic centre of gravity," they say. "Well and Good is equal part creator, manufacturer, producer, distributor and supporter of contemporary art, particularly art from the margins like graffiti and street art." This book set hopes to spread their passion for art all over the city.

Jonathan Goldsbie "Meet the Reigning Ruler of the Twitterverse" If you enjoy books about adventure and unusual career paths, we have a human book just for you. Jonathan Goldsbie, according to a recent review in Torontoist, "is something of a City Hall mongoose, calling out people for their serpentine behaviour with a limitless arsenal of municipal political knowledge." Having spent the last seven years "meddling" in local politics, first as a public space activist and now as a journalist, Jonathan, who's known as the mayor of Twitter, is passionate about the relevance and entertainment value of civic affairs. He's covered the beat for Eye Weekly, spacing magazine and OpenFile, and currently pens columns for the National Post and The Grid TO. And while doing so has always been pretty fun, he says because "paying attention to urban issues has never been as urgent or as thrilling as it is right now."

Dr. Kenny Handelman "Attention Difference Disorder" Dr. Kenny Handelman is a psychiatrist who is an expert in ADD/ADHD. His new book, "Attention Difference Disorder", focuses on a "strength-based" approach to helping parents of kids and teens with the condition. "I love to educate people about the condition in order to decrease stigma about ADHD and mental health in general," Dr. Kenny says in his foreword. Dr. Kenny conducts clinical research and writes the widely-read ADD/ADHD blog, getting over 500,000 visitors per year. Borrowers of Dr. Kenny will get an opportunity to discuss ADD/ADHD and mental health and get new insight into diagnosis, treatment and alternative treatments - for educational (not treatment) purposes.

C. Ross Hirning "Information provides the Power to Live a Normal Life" Ross Hirning began writing a new chapter when he was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes at the age of 42. He was not the typical Type 2 patient, he says, as he was slim and physically active. Consequently, lifestyle changes could not be used to manage the disease, and oral medication was prescribed. This worked well for a while, but after eight years of steadily increasing doses, Ross's specialist recommended that he try insulin injections to achieve better blood glucose control. As a volunteer with the Canadian Diabetes Association, he believes that when people have the information, the will and the means to manage their diabetes, they can live a normal life.

May Mak "Living a Life of Service" Born in Hong Kong, May Mak has conquered mountains since she immigrated to Toronto at age seven. May started volunteering at age 10, mentoring younger students at her school, and has since volunteered with many organizations, most notably Habitat for Humanity Toronto. In 2009, May founded the Full Tummy Farm Orphanage Food Project dedicated to helping orphaned and under-privileged children in developing countries and she has won many awards for her community service. An avid adventure traveller, May has climbed Mount Kilimanjaro and trekked to Mount Everest Base Camp. This human book is available for loan in both English and Cantonese.

Eva Musso "Getting a Gift of Life from a Stranger" Ten years ago, a complete stranger from halfway around the world saved this book from permanent removal from life's collection. At 25, Eva Musso was diagnosed with leukemia. This human book will tell an incredible story about a journey to recovery from cancer. As part of her treatment, Eva required a bone marrow transplant. On the evening of her scheduled transplant, a doctor flew to Europe, and came back with a thermos full of healthy bone marrow from a generous stranger. Last summer, Eva travelled to Germany to meet her bone marrow donor and, language barrier notwithstanding, it was an incredibly emotional experience for them both. "On September 1, I celebrated the 10th anniversary of my bone marrow transplant," Eva says in her foreword. "Sharing my experience as a human book feels like the perfect way to celebrate the night I was reborn."

Jackson Proskow "If These Walls Could Talk!" Every day is an adventure for this human book and he's prepared to spill all! As a Global News reporter covering municipal affairs, Jackson Proskow has a unique insight into the workings of Toronto City Hall and the people and politicians who make our city what it is. Over the last decade, he has lived and worked in cities across Canada and covered everything from hurricanes and presidential visits, to the royal wedding in London. Jackson is full of behind-the-scenes stories that lend insight into what you see on TV (and what you don't!). He wants to share with you his thoughts on how to make journalism relevant to a changing audience, while keeping "old media" up to speed in the age of social media.

Alexis Kane Speer "Stepping Towards a Better Future" Alexis Kane Speer is full of stories from all over the world, inspiring tales she hopes will make her readers feel more connected to people and places, especially public spaces. At 27, Alexis has been recognized as an emerging city builder and was awarded a 2011 DiverseCity Fellowship by the Greater Toronto CivicAction Alliance for her work leading city-building initiatives. She founded the STEPS Initiative, a national organization that uses art to connect people to places. She has traveled to over 25 nations and driven her old Corolla over 21,000 km visiting nearly every North American province and state each with its own unique story. "My experience of being a human book will be a success," Alexis explains, "if I can get at least one person to think critically about the space in which they live or inspire one person to travel to a far-off place they previously were hesitant about."

 

Library Board Seeks Budget 2012 Input

Survey will help determine impact of potential reductions

TORONTO (Thursday, October 27, 2011) – The Toronto Public Library Board wants to understand how potential reductions to library service will affect customers and the community. The Board is asking the public to take a moment to fill out a brief survey. 

Survey results will be provided to the Board as input into the library’s 2012 budget.

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit branches in neighbourhoods across the city and borrow more than 32 million items. As cornerstones of their neighbourhoods, our libraries connect people to each other and to their community, inspiring the spirit of exploration, the joy of reading and the pursuit of knowledge for people of all ages and backgrounds. To learn more, please visit www.torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

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Media Contact:

Anne Marie Aikins, Manager, Community Relations, 416-393-7212 aaikins@torontopubliclibrary.ca

Celebrating Canadian Citizenship

Citizenship Week 2011 and Library Settlement Partnerships Day

Citizenship and Immigration Canada, Toronto Public Library and service provider organizations will present a number of events and activities, including speaker sessions on the rights and responsibilities of Canadian citizenship.

When:                         Friday, October 21, 2011

Location:                    Albion Branch, 1515 Albion Road

Special guest:             Citizenship Judge Renata Brum Bozzi            

With:                           Rexdale Women's Centre

Time:                           12:00 to 3:00 p.m.

 ***************************************************

When:                         Friday, October 21, 2011

Location:                    Agincourt Branch, 155 Bonis Avenue

Special guest:             Citizenship Judge Floyd Babcock       

With:                           Catholic Crosscultural Services

Time:                           4:00 to 8:00 p.m. 

 ***************************************************

 When:                         Friday, October 21, 2011

Location:                    Mimico Centennial Branch,  47 Station Road

Special guest:             Citizenship Judge Raminder Gill

With:                           CultureLink Settlement Services 

Time:                           4:00 to 8:00 p.m. 

***************************************************

When:                         Saturday, October 22, 2011

Location:                    Flemingdon Park Branch, 29 St. Dennis Drive

Special guest:             Citizenship Judge Aris Babikian

With:                          Thorncliffe Neighbourhood Office

Time:                           12:00 to 1:00 p.m. 

Photography and audio-visual equipment are permitted. 

For more information on Citizenship Week 2011, visit http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/celebrate/citweek.asp.

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit branches in neighbourhoods across the city and borrow more than 32 million items. As cornerstones of their neighbourhoods, the libraries connect people to each other and to their community, inspiring the spirit of exploration, the joy of reading and the pursuit of knowledge for people of all ages and backgrounds. To learn more, please visit www.torontopubliclibrary.ca.

 

Media contacts:

Jen Burkholder, Media Relations, Ontario Region             

Citizenship and Immigration Canada

416-954-7868         

ont-communications@cic.gc.ca

Toronto Public Library

media@torontopubliclibrary.ca

 

 

 

Library Settlement Partnerships Celebrate Third Anniversary

Celebration includes citizenship ceremony and human library

TORONTO (Wednesday, October 19, 2011) – Toronto Public Library and community partners will celebrate Library Settlement Partnership Day 2011 on Friday, October 21, the third anniversary of the newcomer program in Toronto. 

This year’s celebrations include a citizenship ceremony, community information fairs and cultural entertainment.  New this year is a Newcomer Human Library program at Centennial, Parkdale, Thorncliffe and York Woods branches giving newcomers the opportunity to check out human books.

The Library Settlement Partnerships (LSP) program is funded by Citizenship & Immigration Canada.  This financial support enables community agencies to work with the public library to provide settlement information at the local level.  All participating branches serve communities with high immigrant populations. In 2010, Toronto Public Library’s LSP program served more than 25,000 Newcomers.

The LSP program started in the Toronto Public Library and then expanded across the province.  It is currently available in 11 communities including Ottawa, Hamilton, Brampton & London.  Settlement information services are available at 49 library branches across the province.

LSP Day is celebrated the third Friday in October each year and coincides with Canadian Citizenship Week and Ontario Public Library Week (October 16th – 22nd).

Toronto Public Library is the largest participating library system with LSP programs & services offered at 19 branches.  Local community partners include:

Catholic Crosscultural Services (CCS) Centre for Information & Community Services (CICS) of Ontario CultureLink Kababayan Community Centre North York Community House (NYCH) Rexdale Women’s Centre Thorncliffe Neighbourhood Office (TNO) Working Women Community Centre YMCA Newcomer Information Centre (YMCA-NIC)

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit branches in neighbourhoods across the city and borrow more than 32 million items. As cornerstones of their neighbourhoods, our libraries connect people to each other and to their community, inspiring the spirit of exploration, the joy of reading and the pursuit of knowledge for people of all ages and backgrounds. To learn more, please visit www.torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

Media Contact:

media@torontopubliclibrary.ca

Mount Dennis Branch to Close for Major Renovation

TORONTO (Wednesday, October 19, 2011) – At 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 29, 2011, Toronto Public Library will temporarily close the Mount Dennis Branch (1123 Weston Road) for a major renovation.  The architects for the renovation are G. Bruce Stratton Architects.  Customers can look forward to a new, improved and more accessible library in their neighbourhood when the branch reopens in 2013.

 

The renovated facility will feature: 

 

• A revitalized main entrance, a more dynamic prominent street presence, with high visibility into the library and enhanced exterior landscaping.
• A complete redesign of the 11,350 square foot interior space and a new layout for collections and equipment, programming space and staff work areas. 
• A new customer service area with express check-out and security.
• A new teen zone.
• Fully accessible washrooms.
• New quiet study rooms.
• Improved collections merchandizing and display.
• Enhanced space for local art exhibits.
• Improved programming and community meeting spaces including a multi-use program room with kitchenette.
• A new KidsStop, an interactive early literacy centre.
• More public computers.

 

During the closure, the community can return books to any Toronto Public Library branch and pick up holds at Weston Branch.  The public can also visit one of several nearby branches—Evelyn Gregory, Maria A. Shchuka or Jane/Dundas or visit the Toronto Public Library Bookmobile in the parking lot of the Royal Canadian Legion, 1050 Weston Rd. on Thursday mornings from 11:00 a.m. to noon beginning Thursday, November 3, 2011. 

 

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit branches in neighbourhoods across the city and borrow more than 32 million items. As cornerstones of their neighbourhoods, our libraries connect people to each other and to their community, inspiring the spirit of exploration, the joy of reading and the pursuit of knowledge for people of all ages and backgrounds. To learn more, please visit www.torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

 

 

Media Contact:

Edward Karek, Communications Officer

ekarek@torontopubliclibrary.ca

Councillor Paul Ainslie Elected Chair of Toronto Public Library Board

TORONTO (Tuesday, October 18, 2011) – At its October 17 meeting, the Toronto Public Library Board elected by acclamation Councillor Paul Ainslie to the position of Board Chair. Councillor Ainslie has been a member of the Board since December 2006.

 

“I’m looking forward to my new role on the Board. It’s an important time for our city’s libraries as we decide how best to maintain the important services the library delivers while meeting the City’s budget requirements,” said Ainslie. “Like so many Torontonians, including my fellow Board members, I recognize the vital role our libraries play in our City and am committed to ensuring that our libraries continue to meet the needs of our city’s residents.”

 

Paul Ainslie is Councillor for Ward 43, Scarborough East. He has worked for all three levels of government over the past 12 years and has also been involved in a number of community organizations including the Boy Scouts of Canada, the Canadian Cancer Society, the Knights of Columbus, and the Friends of Fort York. Councillor Ainslie’s library roots run deep - his first job was as a page in the Morningside branch of the former Scarborough Public Library system.

 

Michael Foderick was elected Vice Chair of the Toronto Public Library Board. Michael has been an active volunteer, community leader, and advocate for most of his life. He has served as president & co-chair of Parkdale Community Legal Services, one of Canada's oldest and largest legal aid clinics, and has also worked for several years as executive assistant to a Toronto City Councillor, helping to create many well-known City of Toronto programs and bylaws.

 

Foderick is one of eight new citizen members recently welcomed to the Toronto Public Library Board. The board consists of 13 members:

 

Councillor Paul Ainslie (Chair)                                   Councillor Cesar Palacio

Michael Foderick (Vice Chair)                                  Mr. Ross Parry

Councillor Sarah Doucette (Mayor’s designate)       Councillor Jaye Robinson

Councillor Janet Davis                                              Mr. Kenneth Stewart

Mr. Stephen Dulmage                                               Mr. Benjamin Wulffhart

Ms. Kim Korinek                                                        Ms. Andrea Zammit

Mr. Cameron Mackay

 

The Board generally meets at the Toronto Reference Library, 789 Yonge Street, on the third Monday of each month at 6 p.m. Agendas and related materials are available online.

 

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit branches in neighbourhoods across the city and borrow more than 32 million items. As cornerstones of their neighbourhoods, our libraries connect people to each other and to their community, inspiring the spirit of exploration, the joy of reading and the pursuit of knowledge for people of all ages and backgrounds. To learn more, please visit www.torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

 

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Media Contact:

Anne Marie Aikins, Manager, Community Relations, 416-393-7212 aaikins@torontopubliclibrary.ca

Francis D’Souza Hosts Human Library Preview

Sneak peek of collection Oct. 19 at Toronto Reference Library

TORONTO (Monday, October 17, 2011) – Toronto Public Library will be hosting a preview of this year’s popular Human Library to provide the public with an opportunity to get a peek at this year’s collection of “human books.” Hosted by Gemini award-winning CityNews anchor and reporter Francis D’Souza, the free event will be held on Wednesday, October 19, from 12:30 – 2:00 pm in Toronto Reference Library.

The public is encouraged to bring their lunch, relax and browse through a few books from our intriguing collection including Toronto Star journalist Catherine Porter, who returned from her ninth trip to Haiti following the devastating earthquake; Chris Upfold, who accepted the challenge of being TTC’s first Chief Customer Service Officer; and Dr. Kenny Handelman, an expert in ADD/ADHD with a unique perspective on treatment. Francis will borrow each of these human books for a brief public read.

This year’s Human Library, funded by the Toronto Public Library Foundation, iwill take place on November 5 in four branches across the city. The collection includes titles on important and timely subjects such as bullying and suicide, living with a chronic illness and surviving cancer, following your dreams and launching your own business, city voices and city champions, caring for a dying loved one and the human impact of military conflict and natural disasters. The collection is also multi-lingual with human books available in seven languages.

What:                         Human Library Preview

Date:                          Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Time:                          12:30 pm – 2:00 pm

Location:                    Toronto Reference Library, Atrium

                                   789 Yonge Street (north of Bloor Street)         

The public will be able to begin placing “holds” on the human books on October 22. For more information about the Human Library and to browse the collection, visit www.torontopubliclibrary.ca/humanlibrary

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit branches in neighbourhoods across the city and borrow more than 32 million items. As cornerstones of their neighbourhoods, our libraries connect people to each other and to their community, inspiring the spirit of exploration, the joy of reading and the pursuit of knowledge for people of all ages and backgrounds. To learn more, please visit www.torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

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Media Contact:

Anne Marie Aikins, Manager, Community Relations, 416-393-7212 aaikins@torontopubliclibrary.ca

Connecting Students with Volunteer Opportunities

Toronto Public Library hosts fair with 23 organizations  

 TORONTO (Wednesday, October 12, 2011) – On November 7, Toronto Public Library will host its 7^th annual Volunteer Fair at the North York Central Library to help connect high  school students with volunteer opportunities at community organizations. The fair features nearly two dozen charitable organizations that provide much needed services in the community and who are looking for volunteers.

The free event will give youth an opportunity to learn more about the importance and benefits of volunteering in their neighbourhoods and how to obtain the volunteer hours required to graduate from high school.    

What:                         Volunteer Fair for High School Students

Date:                          Monday, November 7, 2011

Time:                          3:30 pm – 6:00 pm

Location:                    North York Central Library: Auditorium

                                  5120 Yonge Street (at the North York Centre subway stop)              

More Information:     416-395-5672

Some of the organizations represented at the Volunteer Fair include:

Alzheimer Society of Toronto

Arthritis Society

Canadian Red Cross - Toronto Region

Central Eglinton Community Centre

Cummer Lodge

Duke of Edinburgh's Award Ontario

Earth Day Canada – EcoMentors

Enbridge Ride to Conquer Cancer

Extend-A-Family

Flemingdon Neighbourhood Services

Geneva Centre for Autism

Goodlife Fitness Toronto Marathon

HEYY – Hearing Every Youth through Youth

Meals on Wheels

YMCA

Toronto Public Library Homework Club and Leading to Reading

Toronto and Region Conservation Society

Volunteer Toronto

Toronto Public Library is committed to creating library services that address the specific needs of youth, encourage teens to read, and support youth in their educational, career, volunteer and social development.  In addition to an extensive list of programs and services, Toronto Public Library also has dedicated study space for group or individual use to help teens complete school assignments.  For more information, visit http://ramp.torontopubliclibrary.ca.

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit branches in neighbourhoods across the city and borrow more than 32 million items. As cornerstones of their neighbourhoods, our libraries connect people to each other and to their community, inspiring the spirit of exploration, the joy of reading and the pursuit of knowledge for people of all ages and backgrounds. To learn more, please visit www.torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

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Media Contact:

Media@torontopubliclibrary.ca

 

Toronto Public Library Unveils Human Book Collection

Human Library in four branches Nov. 5

TORONTO (Wednesday, October 5, 2011) – This year’s “human book” collection has been unveiled for Toronto Public Library’s annual Human Library, a unique opportunity for Torontonians to walk in someone else’s shoes for a few minutes.

The collection includes books on timely subjects such as bullying, suicide, living with a chronic illness, and surviving cancer. We have books on following your dreams, launching your own business, challenging the status quo, being a caregiver to a dying loved one, reaching out during natural disasters and transformation after military conflict. 

“We all have a tendency to know what we know and be with who we are familiar with,” said Anne Marie Aikins, community relations manager for the Library. “The Human Library is an opportunity to cross that boundary and be with someone who has a different lived experience.”

“It is also broadens awareness and understanding about important current issues.”

Scheduled in four branches on Saturday, November 5, from 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm, the program will allow library cardholders to borrow from a selection of over 40 human books, individuals who have volunteered their time to share their unique life experiences. Thanks to the support from the Toronto Public Library Foundation, the Human Library will be held in the following branches:

•    Toronto Reference Library (Yonge and Bloor)
•    North York Central Library (North of Yonge and Sheppard)
•    Cedarbrae (Markham and Lawrence)
•    Richview (Islington and Eglinton)

“Living Libraries” were first launched in Copenhagen in the early 1990s to combat prejudice and raise awareness through one-on-one dialogue. Countries all over the world now hold human libraries—Toronto’s is one of the largest.

Library cardholders will be able to begin placing holds on their chosen human books beginning October 22. To learn more about the Human Library and how to participate in the program, visit the Human Library section of our website.

This year the Library will host a preview event, hosted by Francis D'Souza, anchor and reporter for CityNews on October 19, 12:30 – 2:00 pm at Toronto Reference Library. Stay tuned for more information.

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit branches in neighbourhoods across the city and borrow more than 32 million items. As cornerstones of their neighbourhoods, our libraries connect people to each other and to their community, inspiring the spirit of exploration, the joy of reading and the pursuit of knowledge for people of all ages and backgrounds. To learn more, please visit www.torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

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Media Contact:
Anne Marie Aikins, Manager, Community Relations, 416-393-7212
aaikins@torontopubliclibrary.ca

Culture Days @ the Library: 85 free activities at 48 branches

TORONTO (September 20, 2011) - Toronto Public Library, the Neighbourhood Arts Network and Culture Days are pleased to announce a major partnership called “Culture Days @ the Library” that welcomes 85 Toronto-based artists and cultural groups into 48 library branches throughout the city. On Friday, September 30 and Saturday, October 1 the public is invited to take part in free, hands-on and behind-the-scenes activities where artists will share their creative process, inspirations and techniques.

 

“The great variety of cultural activities at Library branches – from  Bollywood dance to Serbian choral music, to poetry, storytelling, painting, bookbinding and stone carving – is testimony to the artistic talents in our city,” said Toronto Public Library’s Senior Services Specialist Miriam Scribner.

 

Culture Days @ the Library matches Toronto-based artists and groups with library branches as a grassroots way of connecting artists to the public in their own neighbourhood.  The partnership allows artists to bring their work out of the studio and engage directly with the public.  Most activities are family-friendly, and all are free and interactive.

 

“Toronto Public Library is one of the best library systems in the world, but what makes it special to us is its accessibility. We jumped at the chance to present our traditional Tibetan dresses and music at such a community hub,” said Gelek Badheytsang, co-director of Tibetan arts group Drebu, which is participating in Culture Days for the second time.  “We enjoy being part of a movement that celebrates local arts across the whole country.” Drebu presents their activity Tibetan Chuba at Parkdale Library. 

 

Visit www.torontopubliclibrary.ca/culturedays for a complete list of activities at Toronto Public Library branches. Or visit www.culturedays.ca to search or browse for all Culture Days activities happening in Toronto and plan your weekend using the Bright Spots Schedule, presented by Sun Life Financial.

 

Other examples of Culture Days @ the Library activities include:

• Creating an ABC book at Beaches Library.  Nola McConnan, author/illustrator of ABC Muskoka, will demonstrate how to create phrases and images for an ABC book. Participants will have the opportunity to make a personal book or lino-block print to take home.
• Sounds of Adventure! at North York Central Library. JunctQín keyboard collective will present a program of new and innovative contemporary works for grand piano and toy piano.
• SLAM I AM at Maria Shchuka Library. Red Slam Collective’s S.L.A.M. I AM is about honoring and reclaiming “Warriorism” through Spoken Lyricism Arranges Meaning (SLAM). The collective is comprised of poets, songwriters, rappers, musicians, dancers, beat-boxers and graffiti artists all with ancestry and community links to the indigenous world.

 

About Culture Days

Culture Days is a collaborative, Canada-wide volunteer movement to raise the awareness, accessibility, participation and engagement of all Canadians in the arts and cultural life of their communities. The first Culture Days event in September, 2010, swept across more than 700 Canadian cities and towns. The second annual Culture Days weekend will feature more than 1200 activities across Ontario this September 30, October 1 and October 2, 2011. Once again, the event will feature free, hands-on, interactive activities that invite the public to participate “behind the scenes”—and to discover the world of artists, creators, historians, architects, curators, and designers, and more at work in their community. To learn more, please visit www.culturedays.ca

Culture Days in Ontario is supported by the Ontario Arts Council, the Ontario Trillium Foundation and the Government of Ontario in recognition of Celebrate the Artist Weekend. 

 

About Neighbourhood Arts Network

Neighbourhood Arts Network is the place where arts and community engagement meet. NAN helps artists and community organizations do what they do best: enrich Toronto and transform it into a more vibrant, beautiful, and liveable city. We catalyze new relationships and conversations, collect research and share information. We envision a Toronto where all residents are empowered to discover and shape the cultural life of their communities. Neighbourhood Arts Network is a project of the Toronto Arts Foundation. To learn more, please visit www.neighbourhoodartsnetwork.org

 

About Toronto Public Library

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit branches in neighbourhoods across the city and borrow more than 32 million items. As cornerstones of their neighbourhoods, our libraries connect people to each other and to their community, inspiring the spirit of exploration, the joy of reading and the pursuit of knowledge for people of all ages and backgrounds. To learn more, please visit www.torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

 

 

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Media Contact:

Anne Marie Aikins, Manager, Corporate Communications, 416-393-7212

Media@torontopubliclibrary.ca

After School Newcomer Hubs Launch for 2011-2012

Toronto Public Library offers free homework help & more

TORONTO (Monday, September 12, 2011) – Thanks to funding from Citizenship and Immigration Canada, Toronto Public Library is launching the popular After School Newcomer Hubs again for the 2011-2012 school year. Youth in grades 7-10 can join one of three programs for free tutored homework help in math, science, English, French, and other subjects. The Hubs also feature skills building workshops, laptops for assignments and research, electronic gaming and fun activities.

The Hubs aim to increase school success and future employment opportunities for newcomer youth. The After School Newcomer Hubs are located at:

Albert Campbell Branch, 496 Birchmount Road (south of St. Clair Avenue East)

(contact: 416-396-8892)

Centennial Branch, 578 Finch Avenue West, (west of Bathurst Street)

(contact: 416-395-5792)

Sanderson Branch, 327 Bathurst Street, (at Dundas Street West)

(contact: 416-393-7764)

Drop in, call or email afterschool@torontopubliclibrary.ca  

More information is available on the library website at

http://www.torontopubliclibrary.ca/services/newcomer-hub.jsp

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit our branches in neighbourhoods across the city and borrow more than 32 million items. To learn more about Toronto Public Library, visit our website at torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

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Media Contact:

Anne Marie Aikins, Manager, Community Relations, 416-393-7212

media@torontopubliclibrary.ca   

Hooded Fang in the Stacks at Sanderson Library

Mighty Uke workshop to follow “Make Some Noise” concert

TORONTO (Monday, September 12, 2011) – Join Polaris Prize-nominated Hooded Fang for an intimate afternoon of music at Sanderson Branch on October 1, another in Toronto Public Library's award-winning Make Some Noise free concert series.

A week later, join the makers of the award-winning film, The Mighty Uke, at High Park Branch on October 8, as they screen the film, talk about the ukulele and conduct a hands-on workshop. Bring your uke!

What:              HOODED FANG live in the stacks

Where:            Sanderson Branch, 327 Bathurst St. (at Dundas)

When:             Saturday, October 1, 2011 at 2:00 p.m.

 

What:              Meet the makers of THE MIGHTY UKE

Where:            High Park Branch, 228 Roncesvalles Ave. (South of High Park Blvd.)

When:             Saturday, October 8, 2011 at 2:00 p.m.

The Make Some Noise…Take Some Noise program brings the library's local music collection of nearly 900 CDs to life in the stacks of library branches around the city. The initiative, which won the Ontario Library Association’s 2009 Media and Communications Award, provides people of all ages an opportunity to see Toronto’s hottest indie bands live for free at their local library branches.

Through their support of Make Some Noise, partners Soundscapes music store and Exclaim! magazine continue to provide an invaluable contribution to helping the library support and expand access to local music in Toronto.

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit our branches in neighbourhoods across the city and borrow more than 32 million items. To learn more about Toronto Public Library, visit our website at torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

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Media Contact:

Anne Marie Aikins, Manager, Corporate Communications, 416-393-7212

Media@torontopubliclibrary.ca

Heritage Toronto presents heritage plaque to George H. Locke Memorial Library

TORONTO (Sept 7, 2011) - Heritage Toronto will be presenting a plaque recognizing the historical significance of the George H. Locke Memorial Library on September 10.

This branch was named to commemorate George H. Locke (1870-1937), the Toronto Public Library’s chief librarian from 1908 to 1937. When the library opened in January 1949, it was the first public building in Lawrence Park and the first Toronto Public Library branch built since the Depression.

The building is a distinctive combination of contrasting design elements. The clean horizontal lines, typical of Modern design, are softened by bow windows and the use of rough-finished stone. The masonry is similar to many local buildings, helping the library to blend with both its park setting and its neighborhood.

Historian and local history librarian Barbara Myrvold along with Lynda Moon, of the North Toronto Historical Society, will lead a free Heritage Toronto Walk of Lawrence Park: A Garden Suburb just prior to the presentation.

Councillor Jaye Robinson and City Librarian Jane Pyper will also be on hand to speak.

What:              Heritage Toronto plaque presentation           

 

Where:            George H. Locke Memorial Library

                       (3083 Yonge Street, closest intersection is Yonge Street and Lawrence Ave. East)

 

When:             Saturday, September 10, 2011

                        10:30 – Noon. Heritage Toronto local history walk

                        Noon – 1:00 pm. Speakers, plaque presentation and refreshments

 

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit our branches in neighbourhoods across the city and borrow more than 32 million items. To learn more about Toronto Public Library, visit our website at torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131. 

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Media Contact:

Michelle Leung, Communications Officer, 416-397-5936

mleung@torontopubliclibrary.ca

 

 

 

 

 

Business Inc. program for Toronto Entrepreneurs returns this Fall to Toronto Public Library

TORONTO (August 30, 2011) – Toronto Public Library has again partnered with the Toronto Business Development Centre (TBDC) and the City of Toronto’s Economic Development & Culture Division (ECD) to deliver a business incubation program in its libraries, aimed at helping entrepreneurs throughout the city develop powerful business plans so they can realize their dream of owning and operating their own business.

 

Built on the success of a pilot program launched earlier this spring, aptly named Business Inc., this nine-week program is returning in October. Tweaked to allow for more participants and expanded to three locations across the City, Business Inc. will help equip entrepreneurs with skills and knowledge required to run a successful business. Participants will gain a better understanding of the guiding principles required to launch their new business or to accelerate an early stage business. 

 

Farishta Kakar was one of 15 participants in the spring program and said: "The seminars taught me how to manage my operations, make financial forecasts, conduct online marketing and to tailor a business plan. With their assistance I prepared my business plan and now I can apply for business loans and grow my business as I dreamed”.

 

At the conclusion of the program, candidates will receive a Business Seminar Series Certificate from the TBDC and may be eligible to apply for a small business loan.

 

Interested entrepreneurs can find information on the program, as well as an application form due September 23, at: www.torontopubliclibrary.ca/businessinc

 

Toronto Business Development Centre was established in 1990 to nurture the growth of new and emerging businesses. As a business incubator, it provides access to advisory support, management training, guidance on business plan preparation, networking opportunities and a range of other resources. TBDC's Business Incubation Programs support the success of entrepreneurs and have helped more than 3,700 clients. Contact: www.tbdc.ca.

 

The City of Toronto’s Economic Development & Culture Division provides services that contribute to an economically strong, socially enjoyable and culturally vibrant city. Among its many services are programs and resources targeted to accelerate start-up and early stage business success, ensuring Toronto remains an innovative and competitive global city.

Contact: www.toronto.ca/doing business.

 

Toronto Public Library has been supporting financial literacy and small businesses in the city for more than 100 years. Library branches provide staff expertise in business related research, free access to business information resources and databases, as well as job and career assistance. See www.torontopubliclibrary.ca/businessinc for more information.

 

 

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Media Contact:

Michelle Leung, Communications Officer, 416-397-5936 mleung@torontopubliclibrary.ca 

 

 

It's Hot Outside But Cool in the Library

Come visit your local branch

Dr. David McKeown, Toronto's Medical Officer of Health has issued an Extreme Heat Alert.  Escape from the sweltering weather, even for a few minutes, by stopping into any Toronto Public Library branch while you're out shopping, after work, or at home. Every branch is comfortably air conditioned!

While visiting, relax and enjoy a cool drink, browse our extensive collection, enjoy free wifi, take in one of our free programs, watch a movie or find out what is new at your library. Enjoy the summer...winter will be here soon enough!

Media contact:

media@torontopubliclibrary.ca

Chill Out: Beat the Heat at Toronto Public Library

Every branch has air conditioning!

Dr. David McKeown, Toronto's Medical Officer of Health has upgraded the Heat Alert in Toronto to an Extreme Heat Alert today, July 20, 2011. And the heat wave is expected to continue tomorrow. Escape from the sweltering weather, even for a few minutes, by stopping into any Toronto Public Library branch while you're out shopping, after work, or at home. Every branch is comfortably air conditioned!

While visiting, relax and enjoy a cool drink, browse our extensive collection, enjoy free wifi, take in one of our free programs, let your kids have fun at a TD Summer Reading Club, watch a movie or find out what is new at your library. Enjoy the summer!

Media contact:

media@torontopubliclibrary.ca

 

 

York Woods Library is Open for Business

Branch closed due to a police investigation; Now reopened

Toronto Public Library had temporarily closed York Woods Branch (1785 Finch Avenue West) this afternoon (Monday, July 18) due to a police investigation. We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. The Branch is now reopened.

 

After School Newcomer Hubs Continue During Summer

Toronto Public Library offers free activities and fun

TORONTO (Monday, July 4, 2011) – Youth in grades 7-10 can visit Toronto Public Library’s After School Newcomer Hubs for free activities and fun throughout the summer.

Funded by Citizenship and Immigration Canada, the Hubs are open Mondays -Thursdays and feature: book clubs, access to laptops, English Conversation Circles, movies, reading and writing workshops, electronic gaming, and much more.

The Hubs aim to enhance reading, literacy and numeracy skills, and provide enrichment activities, skills building and leadership opportunities to increase school success and future employment opportunities for newcomer youth. The Hubs also provide an opportunity for newcomer youth to meet for recreation and social engagement in a positive environment. The After School Newcomer Hubs are located at:

Albert Campbell Branch, 496 Birchmount Road (south of St. Clair Avenue East)

(contact: Winona 416-396-8892)

Centennial Branch, 578 Finch Avenue West, (west of Bathurst Street)

(contact: Sarah 416-395-5792)

Sanderson Branch, 327 Bathurst Street, (at Dundas Street West)

(contact: Sung-Min 416-393-7764)

Drop in, contact the coordinators, or email afterschool@torontopubliclibrary.ca  

More information is available on the library website at

http://www.torontopubliclibrary.ca/services/newcomer-hub.jsp

 

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit our 99 branches and borrow more than 32 million items. To learn more about Toronto Public Library, visit our website at torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131. 

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Media Contact:

Anne Marie Aikins, Manager, Community Relations, 416-393-7212

media@torontopubliclibrary.ca   

Kennedy/Eglinton Closed Tuesday, June 21

Branch Closed Due to Unexpected Building Maintenance

Due to unexpected building maintenance, Kennedy/Eglinton Branch will not be able to open today. We apologize for the inconvenience. The Branch is expected to reopen to the public on Wednesday, June 22, 2011.

Library customers can still drop off their books at Kennedy/Eglinton or at any Branch.

Nearest Branches include McGregor Park (2219 Lawrence Ave. East) or Eglinton Square at Eglinton Square Shopping Centre (1 Eglinton Square).

For further information, contact Answerline 416-393-7131.

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Toronto Public Library Announces 2011 Writer-in-Residence

Author David S. Young to mentor aspiring playwrights

TORONTO (Friday, June 17, 2011) – Toronto Public Library welcomes award-winning author David S. Young as the Fall 2011 Playwright-in-Residence. The annual Writer-in-Residence program offers aspiring writers an opportunity to gain valuable feedback and expert advice on their work from a leading writer.

Writers of plays or screenplays are encouraged to submit play or screenplay manuscripts for feedback from Mr. Young. Writers submitting manuscripts may also be invited to participate in a writer's workshop. Deadline for submissions is Friday, September 2, 2011.

David S. Young is an acclaimed Toronto-based writer and educator. He is the author of seven plays including Inexpressible Island (nominated for the Chalmers Award, the Governor General’s Award and seven Dora Mavor Moore Awards), Glenn (nominated for seven Dora Mavor Moore Awards, the Chalmers/Toronto Drama Bench Award and the Governor General’s Award), Fire, with Paul Ledoux, (recipient of four Dora Mavor Moore Awards and the Chalmers/Toronto Drama Bench Award as well as nine Dora Awards for a later production), and No Great Mischief (adapted from Alistair MacLeod’s novel of the same name).

Mr. Young is a Founding Trustee for The Griffin Prize for Excellence in Poetry, and a Founding Director for The Writer’s Trust. He has served on the Board of Directors for Necessary Angel Theatre Company and Theatre Passe Muraille and was President of Coach House Press. Throughout his career, he has also been an educator, most recently as a lecturer for the Guelph/Humber Masters of Fine Arts Program.

Submitted manuscripts should meet the following criteria:

• The first 20 pages of a play or screenplay
• Submissions should be in an acceptable play, screenplay or script format   
• Typed or word-processed on one side of each page (handwritten manuscripts will not be accepted)
• Use 12 point or larger Times New Roman typeface only
• No email copies accepted and please do not send in originals

Please include your name, address, email address and telephone number on your cover page. There is a limit of one submission per person.

Mail or bring to:

Playwright in Residence Program

Toronto Reference Library, Performing Arts Department, 5th Floor

789 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON   M4W 2G8

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit our 99 branches and borrow more than 32 million items. To learn more about Toronto Public Library, visit our website at torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

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Media Contact:

Anne Marie Aikins, Manager, Community Relations, 416-393-7212, aaikins@torontopubliclibrary.ca

 

 

Are you New to the Neighbourhood?

Meet your neighbours at a free Library Open House!

On Saturday, June 18, 2011, from 12 pm to 4 pm Toronto Public Library and Canadian Tire are providing an opportunity for new residents in 11 Toronto neighbourhoods to come meet their new neighbours at open houses at library branches throughout the city. The Library, Canadian Tire and other community organizations will be at each open house providing information about services, programs and products available to help them get settled in their new homes.

Come discover what your new community and public library have to offer at a free Open House at Toronto Public Library. Enjoy food and entertainment, win prizes and sign up for a FREE library card – your passport to a world of information, books, movies, music and so much more. The New to the Neighbourhood Open Houses have been generously sponsored by Canadian Tire.

www.torontopubliclibrary.ca/openhouse

For more information:

Anne Marie Aikins, Toronto Public Library, Manager, Community Relations, 416-393-7212

media@torontopubliclibrary.ca

 

Michelle Ghandour, Canadian Tire, 416-480-3653, (cell) 647-309-6848

Toronto Public Library Celebrates Aboriginal Month

Festival of heritage & culture with free events during the month of June

TORONTO (Monday, May 30, 2011) – Toronto Public Library celebrates Aboriginal heritage and culture throughout the month of June with a series of free programs and events in Library branches.

In partnership with the Native Canadian Centre of Toronto, the month long series celebrates the largest Aboriginal community in Canada, with over 20 programs, events and workshops in 16 branches all across the city. Aboriginal Month is an important opportunity to recognize and celebrate the heritage and culture of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.

Programs, which are free of charge and suitable for the whole family, include teachings in hand drum, water, medicine wheel and wampum belt, a hands-on arts and crafts workshop, Native songs and dance, and the art of storytelling, plus much more. These programs feature some of the community’s most knowledgeable elders, artists and spokespeople. Come to one of them, come to all of them.

This program is made available with the generous support of the RBC Foundation. A full list of programs is available on the Library’s website at http://www.torontopubliclibrary.ca/programs-and-classes/featured/aboriginal-celebration.jsp. 

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit our 99 branches and borrow more than 32 million items. To learn more about Toronto Public Library, visit our website at torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

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Media Contact:

Anne Marie Aikins, Manager, Community Relations, 416-393-7212 media@torontopubliclibrary.ca

Metcalf Family Gift Supports Library’s Special Collections

Donation will help build on remarkable Canadiana treasures

TORONTO (Thursday, May 26, 2011) – A major gift to Toronto Public Library Foundation from philanthropist Johanna Metcalf, the Metcalf Family and the George Cedric Metcalf Foundation will enable Toronto Public Library to establish a new Special Collections Acquisition Fund dedicated to acquiring items to complement and enhance its remarkable Canadiana and Performing Arts Collections. The new Robert F. Reid Special Collections Acquisition Fund – named in honour of the late Mr. Justice Robert F. Reid – is the first, and largest fund of its kind ever established at Toronto Public Library.

“This is truly a transformational gift,” said Heather Rumball, President, Toronto Public Library Foundation. “Through their generosity, the Metcalf Family is ensuring that today’s – and tomorrow’s – students, scholars, historians and life-long learners will have even more opportunities to explore, uncover and re-discover treasures from Canada’s historical and cultural records.”

The $250,000 dedicated pool of funds over the next five years will enable the Library to actively purchase items that will complement, complete and enhance its collections in specific and strategic ways, something that simply has not been possible before with public funds alone.

“When we as a family were looking for an opportunity to celebrate Robert’s life, we saw Toronto Public Library and its extraordinary collections as a truly meaningful way to make a lasting legacy,” said Johanna Metcalf, who was Mr. Reid’s partner.

"We are incredibly honoured that the Metcalf Family has selected Toronto Public Library as the vehicle for celebrating Robert’s life,” said Jane Pyper, City Librarian. “Their gift will make a significant difference in our ability to showcase and preserve items that will enrich the library experience for future generations.”

In addition to their gift to establish the Robert F. Reid Special Collections Acquisition Fund, the Metcalf Family made a $50,000 donation in support of Toronto Public Library Foundation’s re:vitalize – Toronto Reference Library Campaign. The late Mr. Justice Reid will be recognized in association with the Reading Room in the Library’s soon to be established Special Collections Rotunda.

The Toronto Public Library Foundation believes in the social benefits of a strong and healthy public library system. As a registered charity, the Foundation fosters relationships with people of vision to provide Toronto's Library with improved and expanded collections, enhanced programs and services, and revitalized community spaces.

See background on Robert Reid below.

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Media Contact:

Anne Marie Aikins 416-393-7212 aaikins@torontopubliclibrary.ca

Celebrating the Life of Robert Franklin Reid

Robert Franklin Reid was born in 1923 and raised in Stratford, Ontario. He was a pilot in World War II, a Western University graduate in 1945, and was called to the bar in 1949. For over 50 years, Robert established himself as a lawyer of vision and compassion with a keen appreciation for the machinations of the legal process. His book Administrative Law and Practice (published in 1971) was the first national Canadian text on the subject (a copy of the 1976 supplement is available for viewing at the Toronto Reference Library). He was appointed Justice of the Supreme Court of Ontario in 1974 and served on the bench until 1990. Upon returning to private practice, Robert served as legal counsel and as a mediator and arbitrator in Alternative Dispute Resolutions. Robert retired in 2003.

Throughout his life, Robert was an ardent believer in the legal profession. He served in various capacities with many professional legal organizations over the years, working doggedly to impact positive change.

Though Robert passed away in October 2009, his legacy continues. A gift to celebrate his life and legacy made by Johanna, the Metcalf Family and the George Cedric Metcalf Foundation has enabled the creation of the “Robert F. Reid Special Collections Acquisition Fund”. Items purchased through this Fund will be recognized in perpetuity in Robert’s honour.

Robert is pictured below with his partner, Johanna Metcalf.

 

City of Toronto Launches Core Service Review

The City wants to hear from you.

The City of Toronto has launched a Core Service Review and Toronto Public Library is one of the public services being considered. Make your voice heard on a wide array of issues, including what the Library means to you, by filling out the survey.

The outcome of the Core Service Review will help Council decide which services to change and ways to address its funding gap.

The City wants to hear from you.

• Complete the City’s service review survey. Deadline is June 17. https://toronto.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_9sGiRDeirCJmPVq

• Attend one of the 8 city-organized community consultations (May 24 – June 7). Registration is required (online or by calling 311) https://toronto.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_0rK4UVLNlw8lkNe

What else can you do?

• Inform yourself. Review the information on the City’s website. http://www.toronto.ca/torontoservicereview/

 

Dying for a Home: Fighting for our Social Programs

Cathy Crowe headlines 2011 June Callwood lecture

TORONTO (Monday, May 16, 2011) – Toronto Public Library is proud to present the fifth annual June Callwood Lecture with Toronto street nurse Cathy Crowe, a passionate defender of the homeless. Dying for a Home: Fighting for our Social Programs will be presented on Thursday, May 19, 7:00-8:30 pm in the Atrium at Toronto Reference Library.

The annual June Callwood Lecture honours the life, work and legacy of journalist, author and social activist June Callwood (1924 - 2007). It provides a platform for the exploration and discussion of contemporary social justice issues. The event is free and open to the public.

Hosted this year by Councillor Adam Vaughan, Cathy Crowe will provide a street-level perspective on the need for social housing and why we need social programs now more than ever. Working in the area of homelessness since 1988, she follows the pulse of health issues affecting homeless people including shelter conditions and inadequate, unsafe housing.

Along with remarkable colleagues, homeless activists and friends, she has fostered numerous coalitions and advocacy initiatives. Crowe co-founded the Toronto Disaster Relief Committee which declared homelessness a national disaster and she is a frequent commentator and writer on issues related to poverty, housing and public health.

At the event, Common Thread Community Chorus will also lead the audience in a sing along of protest songs. People wishing to support the annual June Callwood Lecture can make a gift to the June Callwood Endowment Fund through the Toronto Public Library Foundation at www.tplfoundation.ca

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit our 99 branches and borrow more than 32 million items. To learn more about Toronto Public Library, visit our website at torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

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Media Contact:

Anne Marie Aikins, Manager, Community Relations, 416-393-7212 media@torontopubliclibrary.ca  

eh List Spring 2011 Series Enters Final Weeks

Joanna Skibsrud, Dany Laferriére, Anne Fortier still to come 

TORONTO (Thursday, May 12, 2011) – Toronto Public Library’s popular eh List program is entering its final weeks of the Spring 2011 series with not to miss authors like Giller Prize winner Joanna Skibsrud, the “bad boy” himself Peter Robinson and fresh off a Parisian tour Dany Laferriére.

“The eh List series has been extremely successful at drawing an audience,” said programming manager Tina Srebotnjak. “We offer the series in 7 branches across the city, and we’ve found that people really love to meet and talk to the Canadian writers everyone’s reading.”

Events, which are all free, are being held at a variety of Toronto Public Library branches across the city. At North York Central Library, Anne Fortier, author of the blockbuster novel Juliet, will appear on May 18, 7:00 pm, and 2010 Scotiabank Giller Prize winner Johanna Skibsrud is scheduled May 28, 2:00 pm to discuss her novel The Sentimentalists.

Crime novelist Peter Robinson, who has released the 19th installment of the award-winning Inspector Banks series, Bad Boys, will be at the Toronto Reference Library on May 26, 12:30 pm, and again at S. Walter Stewart Branch on May 25, 7:00 pm.

Well known Quebec author, Dany Laferriére, (How to Make Love to Negro Without Getting Tired) will be talking about his new novel, I am a Japanese Writer. He’ll be joined at that event with his English-language translator David Homel. Homel is also scheduled to present his successful novel Midway at Runnymede Branch on May 18, 7:00 pm, and Taylor Memorial Branch May 17, 7:00 pm. Both authors will also appear at Yorkville Branch on May 19, 7:00 pm for a program in French.

Anne Fortier will make a second appearance at Barbara Frum Branch on May 19, 7:00 pm. On the same date and time, author of Moon Over Marrakech, Nazneen Sheikh, will make an appearance at Northern District Branch. For more information, visit Toronto Public Library website www.torontopulbiclibrary.ca/ehlist

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit our 99 branches and borrow more than 32 million items. To learn more about Toronto Public Library, visit our website at torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

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Media Contact:
Anne Marie Aikins, Manager, Community Relations, 416-393-7212 media@torontopubliclibrary.ca 

Library Hosts Volunteer Fair for Boomers & Beyond

Community needs a whole new generation of volunteers

TORONTO (Wednesday, May 11, 2011) – A whole new generation of volunteers is required to ensure the needs of an aging society are met. In response, Toronto Public Library, in partnership with Volunteer Toronto, is hosting an event for Boomers and Beyond to help match enthusiastic volunteers with causes they support and who desperately need their skills and dedication.

The Volunteer Fair will be held on Friday, May 27 from 11:00 – 4:30 pm at Toronto Reference Library, 789 Yonge Street (north of Bloor Street). Along with an exhibition of over 30 organizations actively recruiting volunteers, the event will include a number of presentations, including one from the Ontario Health Study, the biggest community-based health study ever done in Ontario, and one of the biggest in the world. 
 
“Baby boomers are a huge and diverse group,” said Toronto Public Library’s Senior Services Specialist Laura Arrizza. “They represent a variety of life stages, interests and experiences and skills.  Volunteering can take many forms and fit any schedule; can be on-going or short-term, front line help or behind-the-scenes, from home, online, or out in the community.”

“There’s something for everyone,” Arrizza added.

Organizations and groups at the event cover a wide variety of interests including environmental and special interest, health, literacy and learning, entertainment and cultural, seniors’ services and shelter and housing. Participating groups include Toronto Public Library, High Park Nature Centre, Toronto Green Community, Live Green Toronto, Second Mile Club, St. Clair West Services for Seniors,  Central Eglinton Community Centre, Circle of Care, St. Paul’s L’Amoreaux Centre, Centre for Inquiry Ontario, Second Mile Club of Toronto, Belmont House, SPRINT, Luminato, City of Toronto Special Events, Community Living Ontario, Toronto Council on Aging,  Alexandra Park Neighborhood Learning Centre, Aphasia Institute, St. Christopher House, Heart & Stroke Foundation, and University Health Network, and many more.

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit our 99 branches and borrow more than 32 million items. To learn more about Toronto Public Library, visit our website at torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

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Media Contact:
Anne Marie Aikins, Manager, Community Relations, 416-393-7212 media@torontopubliclibrary.ca 

May 9th Meeting of Toronto Public Library Board Cancelled

The May 9th meeting of the Toronto Public Library Board is unfortunately cancelled due to the anticipated lack of quorum.  The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Board is on Tues., June 7th at 6 p.m. in the board room at Toronto Reference Library.

For further information, please visit our website or contact:

Anne Marie Aikins

Manager, Community Relations

416-393-7212

media@torontopubliclibrary.ca

 

 

Call for Participation: Culture Days is Coming to a Toronto Public Library Branch Near You!

Culture Days @ The Library

TORONTO (May 9, 2011) Toronto Public Library (TPL), the Neighbourhood Arts Network and Culture Days are pleased to announce an exciting partnership called “Culture Days @ The Library” to help artists and arts organizations to share their creative work with the public.

Toronto Public Library is offering free venues to Toronto-based artists and arts organizations wishing to be part of Culture Days on September 30 and October 1, 2011. Some 45 TPL branches spanning the city will provide various types of venues at no cost. Now in its second year, Culture Days is a pan-Canadian celebration of arts and culture. For more information, visit www.culturedays.ca

Often described as the “living-rooms of the city” public libraries are important community spaces in our neighbourhoods for learning, exchange of ideas and connecting with others. This partnership enables artists to take their practice out of their private studios into the accessible spaces of library branches so that the public can discover and engage with their work.

To be considered for a space, the arts activity must be free and interactive. Toronto-based individual artists, small and medium-sized arts and cultural organizations, collectives or groups that wish to organize their events at a TPL branch are invited to submit an application by June 10, 2011. These will be assessed by a jury and matched with an appropriate branch location. Decisions will be based on the suitability of the activity for the branch’s venue space and the interactive nature to the activity. Artistic merit will not be assessed. Activities in all artistic disciplines are encouraged as well as those that appeal to families and to audiences of diverse ages.Whenever possible, artists/organizations will be matched with a branch in their own neighbourhood.

45 Toronto Public Library Branches Open their Doors

The following branches are committed to hosting Culture Days activity organizers. From Etobicoke to Scarborough, North York to downtown, this partnership contributes to Culture Days taking place in neighbourhoods throughout the city. The majority of activities will be scheduled on Saturday, October 1, with a limited number scheduled on Friday, September 30. For location and other details about each branch, go to http://www.torontopubliclibrary.ca/hours-locations/index.jsp

Albert Campbell
Flemingdon Park
Mount Dennis
Alderwood
Gerrard Ashdale
Mt Pleasant
Annette
Guildwood
North York Central (five spaces available)
Barbara Frum
High Park
Northern Elms
Bayview
Highland Creek
Oakwood Village
Beaches
Humber Summit
Pape Danforth
Bendale
Jane Dundas
Parliament
Black Creek
Jane-Sheppard
Pleasant View
Danforth
Jones
Richview
Davenport
Lillian H. Smith
S. Walter Stewart Branch
Deer Park
Malvern
Spadina
Don Mills
Maria Shchuka
St Clair Silverthorn
Downsview
McGregor Park
Victoria Village
Dufferin St. Clair
Mimco
Weston
Elmbrook Park
Morningside
York Woods
Evelyn Gregory
How to participate

The application form is now on-line. Applications will be accepted from now until June 10, 2011.
Applicants will assessed and matched with the appropriate branches. Notifications will be sent out by July 15, 2011.

About Culture Days
Culture Days is a collaborative, Canada-wide volunteer movement to raise the awareness, accessibility, participation and engagement of all Canadians in the arts and cultural life of their communities. The first annual Culture Days event swept across more than 700 Canadian cities and towns during the last weekend of September 2010, generating an extraordinary amount of enthusiasm in the process. This year’s Culture Days weekend will take place on September 30, October 1 and October 2. Once again, the event will feature free, hands-on, interactive activities that invite the public to participate “behind the scenes”—and to discover the world of artists, creators, historians, architects, curators, and designers at work in their community. To Learn more, please visit www.culturedays.ca. Culture Days in Ontario is supported by the Ontario Arts Council, the Ontario Trillium Foundation and the Government of Ontario.

About Toronto Public Library
Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit our 99 branches and borrow more than 32 million items. As cornerstones of their neighbourhoods, our libraries connect people to each other and to their community, inspiring the spirit of exploration, the joy of reading and the pursuit of knowledge for people of all ages and backgrounds. To learn more, please visit www.torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

About Neighbourhood Arts Network
Neighbourhood Arts Network is the place where arts and community engagement meet. NAN helps artists and community organizations do what they do best: enrich Toronto and transform it into a more vibrant, beautiful, and liveable city. We catalyze new relationships and conversations, collect research and share information. We envision a Toronto where all residents are empowered to discover and shape the cultural life of their communities. Neighbourhood Arts Network is a project of the Toronto Arts Foundation. To learn more, please visit www.neighbourhoodartsnetwork.org

For more information about Culture Days @ The Library, please visit www.on.culturedays.ca

Texte aussi disponible en Français

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Culture Days contact:
Aubrey Reeves
Culture Days Ontario Manager
(416) 646-7469
Mobile: (416) 809-8045
aubreyreeves@culturedays.ca

Toronto Public Library contact:
Anne Marie Aikins
Manager, Community Relations
Toronto Public Library
Communications, Programming and Customer Engagement
416.393.7212
Mobile: 416.629.0556
aaikins@torontopubliclibrary.ca

Toronto Public Library Hosts 2nd Annual Book Bash

Canadian Children’s Literature Festival makes reading fun

TORONTO (Wednesday, April 27, 2011) – To close off the annual Keep Toronto Reading festival, Toronto Public Library is once again hosting Book Bash, a fun-filled, free children’s festival featuring an all-star cast of Canadian children’s authors and illustrators. Being held on Saturday, April 30, the stellar line-up of talent includes Richard Scrimger, Shane Peacock, Barbara Reid, Cary Fagan and Ruth Ohi. 

“Last year’s inaugural Book Bash was a huge success with hundreds of children and their families enjoying the day’s activities and we expect this year to be even more fun for kids of all ages,” said Lisa Heggum, Toronto Public Library’s newly-appointed children and youth advocate. “The festival makes literacy fun, and instills a love of reading and an appreciation for our wonderful Canadian authors.”

“Book Bash is a truly unique event as it has something for everyone,” Heggum adds.

This year, Book Bash is being held indoors at the newly renovated Northern District Branch. The festival includes free activities for young children including opportunities to meet their favourite authors and illustrators, storytelling, puppet shows, face painting, and fun crafts and activities. There are lots of surprises for the older kids (8-12) including learning opportunities for budding writers. Parents can hear about ways to encourage their reluctant readers as well.

What:         Book Bash, the second annual Canadian Children’s Literature Festival

Where:       Northern District Branch
                  40 Orchard View Blvd. (north of Eglinton Subway Station) 

When:        Saturday, April 30, 2011, 12:30 – 4:00 pm 

The festival is supported by the Muller Scholastic Endowment Fund for Canadian Children’s Literature, honouring Lawrence Muller, retired president of Scholastic Canada, and the Toronto Public Library Foundation. The goal of the annual children’s literacy festival is to promote reading, and recognize the wealth of Canadian talent writing for children.

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit our 99 branches and borrow more than 32 million items. To learn more about Toronto Public Library, visit our website at torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

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Media Contact:
Anne Marie Aikins, Manager, Community Relations, 416-393-7212 media@torontopubliclibrary.ca

Toronto Public Library Celebrates Asian Culture

Annual city-wide event throughout May features homelands festivals

TORONTO (Wednesday, April 27, 2011) Toronto Public Library is hosting its annual city-wide celebration of Asian culture throughout the month of May with dozens of free events for people of all ages.

A new feature this year is Homelands Festivals, eight entertaining events in branches across the city celebrating the breadth of Asia. Held on Saturdays in May, the festivals include Balinese music and dance; Chinese opera; Persian dance; Arabian, East Asian and South Asian cooking; and storytelling from across Asia. Only Marco Polo covered more Asian ground!

Thanks to the generous support of RBC Foundation, Toronto Public Library is able to host all Asian Heritage Month events, including the new Homelands Festivals, free of charge to participants. There are also over 30 other opportunities for children and families, teens and adults including author visits and story times, cooking and tai chi demos, puppet shows, henna tattooing and origami, and much more.

For more information and a complete list of all Asian Heritage Month events, pick up an event guide and recommended reading list at any Toronto Public Library branch, call Answerline at (416) 393-7131, or visit torontopubliclibrary.ca 

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit our 99 branches and borrow more than 32 million items. To learn more about Toronto Public Library, visit our website at torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.
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Media Contact:
Tina Srebotnjak, Manager – Cultural & Special Events Programming
416-393-7098
media@torontopubliclibrary.ca

Toronto Public Library Invites Input to Design for New Branch

Fort York/Bathurst library expected to open in 2014

TORONTO (Wednesday, April 27, 2011) - Toronto Public Library is planning a brand new 15,000 square foot branch in the West Waterfront and CityPlace communities offering a full range of library services. Located on Fort York Boulevard, at Bathurst Street, the branch is expected to open in 2014.  Library customers can view the proposed design concept for their new library, at one of two community open houses and provide their comments.

What:     Fort York/Bathurst Branch Community Open House #1
Where:   Fort York – Blue Barracks, 250 Fort York Blvd (West of Bathurst Street)
When:    Tuesday, May 10, 2011- Drop in anytime between 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

What:     Fort York/Bathurst Branch Community Open House #2
Where:   Sanderson Branch, 327 Bathurst Street Corner of Bathurst Street and Dundas Street West)
When:    Thursday, May 19, 2011 - Drop in anytime between 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

The new library will provide the West Waterfront and CityPlace communities with a full range of efficient neighbourhood library branch services in a welcoming environment. Services available will include a diverse collection; meeting, collaborative and study spaces; and access to technology for research, learning, working and recreation. 

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit our 99 branches and borrow more than 32 million items. To learn more about Toronto Public Library, visit our website at torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

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Media Contact:
Edward Karek, Communications Officer, 416-397-5925
media@torontopubliclibrary.ca

Toronto Public Library’s Dial A Story Now Available in Russian

Toronto Public Library’s Dial A Story Now Available in Russian

Popular children’s telephone story service now in 13 languages

 

TORONTO (April 18, 2011) - Toronto Public Library recently added Russian stories to the Dial A Story (416-395-5400) phone line.  Dial A Story, Toronto Public Library’s popular telephone story service for children, answered 271,265 calls in 2010.  That’s over 700 happy young callers a day!   

 

Dial A Story provides stories for younger children (7 and under) and for older children (up to 12) 24 hours a day.  Stories rotate on a daily basis so children hear a different story every day.  The free service is now available in 13 languages, including English, French, Cantonese, Gujarati, Italian, Mandarin, Polish, Portuguese, Spanish, Somali, Tamil, Urdu and Russian. 

 

Periodically, Dial A Story even features special guests readers.  Storytellers in the past have included Blue Jays players and dancers from the National Ballet of Canada.  You never know who you will meet up with on Dial A Story! 

 

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit our 99 branches and borrow more than 32 million items. To learn more about Toronto Public Library, visit our website at torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

 

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Media Contact:

Michelle Leung, Communications Officer, 416-397-5936 media@torontopubliclibrary.ca 

 

 

Renovations Complete at Richview Branch

Renovations Complete at Richview Branch
More efficient customer service and improved accessibility

TORONTO (Tuesday, April 12, 2011) – After months of hard work, Toronto Public Library is ready to introduce the community to its new and improved Richview Branch at a customer appreciation event on Monday, April 18, 2011 from 3:30 – 6:00 p.m.

City librarian Jane Pyper will be on hand to meet library customers and thank them for their patience during the renovation.  Branch staff will also be available to help orient customers to all the new library enhancements.  

The renovation project, which was made possible in part through federal infrastructure financing, involved a complete renovation of the first floor. Self-service technologies, including express check-out and check-in will improve customer service. There are new fully accessible washrooms on the main floor and barrier-free access to all areas of the library.

There is now increased access to technology for research, learning, working and recreation and new group study workstations. The branch has a welcoming “urban living room” layout with comfortable seating and lounge area; a vibrant Teen Zone; and an eye-catching entrance to the popular children’s area.  A significant service enhancement is the addition of new Friday evening hours. 

Media are welcome to attend at any time during the event.

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit our 99 branches and borrow more than 32 million items. To learn more about Toronto Public Library, visit our website at torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

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Media Contact:
Edward Karek, Communications Officer,Communications, Programming & Customer Engagement, 416-397-5925
Media@torontopubliclibrary.ca


The Sadies In the Stacks at Toronto Reference Library

Award-winning “Make Some Noise” program kicks off 2011 season

TORONTO (Tuesday, April 5, 2011) - Toronto’s beloved ‘alt-country psychedelic surf-rock’ wizards, The Sadies are set to kick off the 2011 season of Toronto Public Library's award-winning Make Some Noise free concert series.

What: The Sadies: an evening in the stacks
Where: Toronto Reference Library atrium, 789 Yonge Street
When: Saturday, April 16, 2011 at 8:00 p.m. (doors 7:30 p.m.)

The Make Some Noise…Take Some Noise program brings the library's local music collection of nearly 900 CDs to life in the stacks of library branches around the city. The initiative, which won the Ontario Library Association’s 2009 Media and Communications Award, provides people of all ages an opportunity to see Toronto’s hottest indie bands live for free at their local library branches.

Through their support of Make Some Noise, partners Soundscapes music store and Exclaim! magazine continue to provide an invaluable contribution to helping the library support and expand access to local music in Toronto.

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit our 99 branches and borrow more than 32 million items. To learn more about Toronto Public Library, visit our website at torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

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Media Contact:
Anne Marie Aikins, Manager, Corporate Communications, 416-393-7212
Media@torontopubliclibrary.ca

City Officially Declares April ‘Keep Toronto Reading Month’

Toronto Public Library celebrates 6th annual city-wide reading festival

TORONTO (Wednesday, March 30, 2011) - April was officially declared Keep Toronto Reading Month this morning at an event at Hunter’s Glen Junior School in Scarborough. On behalf of Mayor Rob Ford, Toronto Public Library Board member Councillor Sarah Doucette read the official proclamation in front of over 250 enthusiastic primary school students gathered in the school’s gym.

Through a partnership with the Toronto District School Board (TDSB), 15 Scarborough primary schools are holding their own Keep Toronto Reading Day in April, and 14 high school classes across the city are reading this year’s One Book community read selection, Midnight at the Dragon Café, by Judy Fong Bates.

“We’re very happy to have so many Toronto students taking part in our festival this year,” said City Librarian Jane Pyper.  “And so we thought Hunter’s Glen Junior School would be the perfect location to kick off our sixth annual city-wide celebration of reading.”

This morning’s event featured a story time and performance by children’s author and illustrator Robin Muller, as well as a surprise “flash mob” by the students that musically celebrated their love of reading.  

“This year's literacy focus is about giving students the knowledge and skills to make good decisions and think critically about their surroundings," said Kurt McIntosh, Principal of Hunter's Glen Junior School. "Our partnership with the Toronto Public Library, and today's launch, will highlight our month-long celebration of the many forms of literacy, both locally and across the Board.”

The first of Toronto Public Library’s Keep Toronto Reading Festival events is an onstage conversation with Judy Fong Bates at the Toronto Reference Library on April 1.  There are more than 80 other free events spread across the city all month long.  Visit www.keeptorontoreading.ca for complete details. 

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit our 99 branches and borrow more than 32 million items. To learn more about Toronto Public Library, visit our website at torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.
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Media Contact:
Tina Srebotnjak, Manager, Cultural and Special Events Programming
416-393-7098
media@torontopubliclibrary.ca

 

 

Official Launch of Keep Toronto Reading Month

Flash mob at Hunter’s Glen School to kick off April festival

TORONTO (Monday, March 28, 2011) - April will be officially declared Keep Toronto Reading Month at a special event at Hunter’s Glen Junior Public School in Scarborough on Wednesday, March 30, 2011.  City Librarian Jane Pyper will be in attendance along with Toronto Public Library Board member Councillor Sarah Doucette who will read the official proclamation on behalf of Mayor Rob Ford. 

Children’s author and illustrator Robin Muller will also be in attendance to demonstrate how he brings his art to life. And for a unique twist, 200 kids gathered in the school gym will surprise the officials with an enthusiastic Keep Toronto Reading “flash mob.”

What:        Official launch of Keep Toronto Reading Festival
                www.keeptorontoreading.ca

When:        Wednesday, March 30, 10:00 am

Where:        Hunter’s Glen Junior Public School gymnasium
                   16 Haileybury Drive, Scarborough (South of Lawrence and Midland)

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit our 99 branches and borrow more than 32 million items. To learn more about Toronto Public Library, visit our website at torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.
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Media Contact:
Anne Marie Aikins, Manager, Community Relations
416-393-7212
media@torontopubliclibrary.ca

Toronto Public Library Invites Public to Help Shape New Vision for Mount Dennis Branch

TORONTO (Wednesday, March 23, 2011) - Toronto Public Library is inviting members of the public to help shape a new vision for Mount Dennis Branch by sharing their opinions at a community open house on Thursday, April 7, 2011.

Toronto Public Library senior staff and architects from G. Bruce Stratton Architects will be on hand to seek input from the public on the proposed renovation plans which will improve accessibility, enhance customer service and provide a larger, more welcoming space for the community.

The Mount Dennis Branch renovation is scheduled to begin in late 2011. 

What:           Mount Dennis Community Open House    
Where:         Mount Dennis Branch (1123 Weston Road, below Eglinton Avenue
                    West, between Keele Street and Jane Street)
When:          Thursday, April 7, 2011

Drop in anytime between 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit our 99 branches and borrow more than 32 million items. To learn more about Toronto Public Library, visit our website at torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

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Media Contact:
Anne Marie Aikins, Manager, Community Relations
416-393-7212
media@torontopubliclibrary.ca

Toronto Public Library Invites You to Share the Books You Love

170 journals spread across city as part of Keep Toronto Reading Festival

TORONTO (Tuesday, March 22, 2011) Toronto Public Library’s popular red journals are back for a second year. The library’s 99 branches today each launched a journal inviting Torontonians to write about books they love. The journals left their home branches this morning, and were launched into their neighbourhoods by library staff and customers. Anyone finding one of the journals is encouraged to write about a favourite book and then release the little red book back into the community.

The journals are part of the library’s annual Keep Toronto Reading Festival, which takes place each April.  The festival’s theme this year is Let Books Transform you this April and so people are especially encouraged to share a transformative read. The journey of the journals can be tracked through Twitter (@torontolibrary and #ktrjournal), or through the journal blog on the Keep Toronto Reading website (keeptorontoreading.ca).

In addition to the roaming journals, the library has this year placed stationary journals in 40 independent coffee shops and book stores.  Readers who want to share a book that really mattered to them are invited to drop by one of these locations and make an entry. A map showing all locations is located on the website.  In addition, the library’s Bookmobiles will each carry a journal on their regular routes around the city.

The festival media sponsors, the Toronto Star and CBC, will also circulate a journal among their staff. And 15 Scarborough primary schools will be filling their own journals leading up to their special day-long celebrations of reading on April 29.

The library asks that anyone finding a traveling journal after April 20 return it to their local branch.  Stationary journals will be collected at the end of the month, and a comprehensive “Books Toronto Loves” list will be compiled and posted on the website. 

For complete event listings, visit keeptorontoreading.ca

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit our 99 branches and borrow more than 32 million items. To learn more about Toronto Public Library, visit our website at torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.
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Media Contact:
Tina Srebotnjak, Manager – Cultural & Special Events Programming
416-393-7098
media@torontopubliclibrary.ca

Toronto Public Library Announces 6th Annual Book Festival

Toronto Public Library Announces 6th Annual Book Festival
80 events across the city during April will “Keep Toronto Reading”

TORONTO (Thursday, March 10, 2011) Toronto Public Library is celebrating the transformative power of books in its sixth annual Keep Toronto Reading Festival this April. The month-long celebration of books and reading offers 80 free events at 40 library branches across the city, inviting Torontonians to “Let Books Transform You this April”.

Highlighting this year’s festival are internationally acclaimed authors Howard Jacobson, Donna Leon and Tim Flannery, as well as Canadian luminaries David Bezmozgis, Stephen Hayward, Alissa York, Michael Winter, Gail Bowen and first time novelist Sylvia Tyson.

The library will also be celebrating its 4th annual 2011 One Book community read, Midnight at the Dragon Café, by Judy Fong Bates. As part of this city-wide book club, Torontonians can meet Judy, discuss her book, and go to one of more than a dozen One Book events, including a performance of Chinese Opera, a public lecture at the University of Toronto, and a sampling of Chinese dumplings.

Keep Toronto Reading also offers poetry recitals, storytelling for both adults and kids, anime, and crafts for kids.  Book Bash, a special day-long event celebrating Canadian children’s literature, will take place on April 30th. 

Toronto schools are a big part of this year’s festival, with 13 high school classes studying Midnight at the Dragon Café.  In addition, 15 primary schools in Scarborough will hold their own Keep Toronto Reading Day filled with fun activities celebrating the joy of reading.

Keep Toronto Reading will be officially launched on March 30 at Hunter’s Glen school in Scarborough, where April will officially be declared “Keep Toronto Reading Month.”

For complete event listings, go to keeptorontoreading.ca

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 18 million people visit our 99 branches and borrow more than 32 million items. To learn more about Toronto Public Library, visit our website at torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

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Media Contact:
Tina Srebotnjak, Manager – Cultural & Special Events Programming
416-393-7098
media@torontopubliclibrary.ca