July 29, 2023

Toronto, ON – Today, the Toronto Public Library (TPL) marks the completion of an extensive renovation of its York Woods branch, officially re-opening its doors to the public. The renovated branch designed by Diamond Schmitt is situated in the heart of the Jane and Finch community, and exemplifies a large, modern and multi-purpose urban library and beautiful public infrastructure for the neighbourhood. 

With a commitment to creating public spaces that bring communities together, the new York Woods Library is an inviting building where everyone feels welcome. 

The transformation includes a transparent new entrance pavilion that creates prominent street presence and a two-storey atrium on the main floor. The new design introduces expanded public spaces for quiet study and collaboration, and new lounge seating and reading areas. The fully-equipped performing arts theatre has also been revitalized with new seating, lighting and sound systems.

“Our vision for the revitalized York Woods Library was to create a sense of place. It is designed as a flexible Community Hub where residents of the Jane and Finch neighbourhood feel welcome, not just to drop by and borrow a book, but to stay for a while and engage with the new open, light-filled spaces and programs the library has to offer,” says Gary McCluskie, Principal, Diamond Schmitt.

Serving a population of more than 55,000, the York Woods branch plays a vital role in providing services that extend far beyond the traditional library lending model.

These programs include TPL’s first dedicated Youth Hub, a dynamic space that provides teenagers with school support from librarians, and greater access to community resources; a newly established Digital Innovation Hub which offers advanced software and a wide variety of new and emerging technologies; as well as immersive and interactive zones like the KidsStop Early Literacy Centre, to stimulate children’s creativity and imagination, and help build their early literacy skills. Alongside the new additions, is a Musical Instrument Lending Library, where customers can borrow from an impressive collection of instruments.

“We’re excited to welcome the community back to their library at York Woods. Beautiful and well-equipped public spaces like this one help build resilience, success and well-being for the community and its residents. We look forward to welcoming the community back, and hope everyone will take advantage of their beautiful library with its enhanced features and expanded services,” says Vickery Bowles, City Librarian, Toronto Public Library.

Read the full news release here.