New to Canada

Toronto Public Library (TPL) offers a broad range of programs and services for newcomers. For example, Library Settlement Partnerships (LSP) is a partnership between TPL and 7 local settlement agencies, and is funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. LSP Workers assist newcomers with one-on-one settlement service and offer relevant programs, both in the library and online.

Throughout the pandemic, LSP has continuously provided help to newcomers in a number of ways. For example, finding housing and employment, keeping healthy and well, and staying informed about COVID-19 and the steps to take to stay safe. At this time, the team of multilingual LSP Workers continues to offer remote service, with some offering one-on-one appointments in person.

In the library, a number of safety measures are in place: all settlement workers are fully vaccinated and equipped with Personal Protective Equipment, acrylic shields are installed at LSP desks, and equipment and furniture are regularly cleaned. To book an appointment, connect with an LSP Worker over the phone or through email. Contact information for each LSP Worker can be found on the Settling in Toronto page.

You can also sign up for an online LSP program. These programs are taking place via a third-party online platform. The settlement workers can help walk you through the steps of using this platform carefully. Here are some upcoming LSP programs:

English Conversation Group: Let’s Speak English

Hosted by LSP partner YMCA Newcomer Information Centre
Wednesdays February 9 & 23, March 9 & 23, April 6, 2022; 3-4 pm
For full details or to register, please visit www.newcomersincanada.ca

How to Book a Roofed Accommodation with Ontario Parks

Hosted by LSP partner CultureLink
Wednesday February 9, 2022; 6-7:30 pm
For full details or to register, contact Stanley at 647-404-8857

Personal Taxation in Canada

Hosted by LSP partner CICS
Thursday February 17, 2022; 6-7:30 pm
For full details or to register, contact Zarmeena at zarmeena.khan@cicscanada.com

Income Tax for Filing

Hosted by LSP partner YMCA Newcomer Information Centre
Thursday March 10, 2022; 11 am-12 pm
For full details or to register, please visit www.newcomersincanada.ca

Steps to English Fluency and Discover Canada

Hosted by LSP partner YMCA Newcomer Information Centre
Thursdays April 7 to May 12, 2022; 6:30-8 pm
For full details or to register, please visit www.newcomersincanada.ca

Citizenship Test Preparation Online Sessions

Hosted by LSP partner CCS
Ongoing, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 4-5:30 pm
For full details or to register, please contact Renee at rxu@ccscan.ca

More helpful library resources

The library offers a number of helpful online resources for language learning and homework support. These resources are free with your library card.

Brainfuse offers online homework help with tutors. From 2 to 11 pm daily, live tutors are available to help with Math, Reading, Science, Social Studies, History, Geography and Language Arts for students in grades K-12. French-speaking tutors are available. Students can connect with tutors using an interactive whiteboard to write, draw, copy/paste text or images relating to homework problems. Also includes practice tests, support for adult learners, writing assistance, skills building and more.

Learning Express Library provides test-preparation and skills-improvement materials (including tutorials, practice tests and e-books) for all ages. Prepare for LSAT, MCAT, GMAT, SAT, GED, Canadian citizenship practice test, TOEIC, TOEFL iBT, math, grammar, writing and more.

Mango Languages is a language learning resource offering courses in more than 70 languages. This resource also includes 21 English courses for non-English speakers in their own languages. The interactive exercises include culture notes, vocabulary and grammar.

Tense Buster offers lessons and practice tests to help improve English grammar. The courses cover key grammar areas from Elementary level to Advanced, and include tips to improve reading, writing, listening, speaking, vocabulary and grammar.

At this time, staff cannot offer the same extended support we usually do, and use of library space is limited due to capacity restrictions. Before visiting a library in person, please remember to wear your mask or face covering, and check our latest updates to library service. Our online services are always available and can be accessed from anywhere, so please check out the resources listed above or other eLearning resources.

Edited March 8, 11 am: Added Citizenship Test Preparation Online Sessions & Income Tax for Filing.