High Park Public Library

I lamented a bit about moving away from Lillian H. Smith (what a steal of a library!) — I was hesitant to accept High Park PL into my life. & then I met the librarians. Who are SO NICE.
When I thought I might have dropped my metro pass in with my returned books? They took my phone number to let me know if they found it & called even when nothing turned up.
When I checked out a book about managing my personal finance at the same time as a graphic novel? They didn’t flinch.

I usually go to the library at Bloor West village — mistake alert.
This library is so much cuter. It has two levels with the kids’ section downstairs and adults upstairs. It’s a bit cramped, but feels very cozy. The room is fairly bright with an old fire place, tall wooden ceilings, big comfy chairs and a pretty good selection of ‘best bets.’ There aren’t a million computers available like some of the other libraries — so you don’t get long lines of people randomly standing around. It’s definitely more of a quiet, book-​lover library (if that makes sense).

As this is my first non-​restaurant review on
, I will attempt to take a less critical, and more observational tone in my musings about the High Park Library.
Libraries are wonderful places. Free knowledge for all who seek it. Entertainment for young and old, and a sense of community surround these places. They’re open late, in some cases so students can study, and those of us too busy to go in the day can access books.
I have visited many libraries mostly in Ontario. Starting in early-​childhood and public school, high school, university, and now adulthood. I’ve visited the University of Ottawa & Carleton Libraries, as well as University of Waterloo, Wilfred Laurier and McMaster as well as the University of Buffalo. I’ve even worked in libraries in the United Kingdom on a research project based in London and Oxford. The library I spent most time at was called the Bodleian at the University of Oxford University. The original building was constructed in 1602, and was one of the earliest major libraries built in Europe.

I’ve never actually counted, but I may have been to 50 or more libraries so far in my life.
I also enjoy reading as a hobby, and although I buy books far more than I should, the library is a sacred domain which I find myself returning to wherever and whenever I happen to be living.
Which brings us to my visit this evening to the High Park Library. It is conveniently located on Roncesvalles Avenue; a ten minute walk south from the subway, and accessible by the streetcar. I’ve walked by it dozens of times but never entered before tonight.
The main floor is small and cramped where the lobby and checkout areas are located. There are several side rooms, one of which contained the childrens’ section, and the other a staff area. As well, the washrooms are located near the entrance.
The upstairs is much larger and contains the bulk of the library’s contents. The most special feature of this particular location was the large section of Polish books, magazines, and videos. Situated in the heart of the Toronto Polish community, it contains perhaps the largest collection of Polish books, magazines and videos in a public library anywhere in Canada. Some or all of these books may have been donated by members of the community, which is well known for it’s Polish shops and restaurants.
The High Park Library has a true community feeling to it. While it is neither grand, nor particularly stylish it’s true value is the location at the heart of the Roncesvalles village, and how it’s contents reflects the community surrounding.

This is a well-​loved library, but neat and tidy too. Its kids book area is smartly downstairs (keep the critters in one place) and the adult stuff upstairs.
High arching ceilings, loads of reading chairs, computers and large tables to stretch out and work at are in abundance… having said that, I LOVE the kids section best. It has a great wall-​carpeted reading cove that you just want to cuddle into like a big blue hug (the carpet is blue).
Plus with so many great activities available for kids (and adults), and the ability to order books from all the branches, I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again… THE LIBRARIES IN TORONTO ROCK, PEOPLE! Go get a card now if you don’t have one!

The High Park Library is a wonderful little branch, located in a converted church. The ground floor is a bit cramped, but the second floor has a huge ceiling, plenty of light, and windows that preserve the old church nave. There’s also an added wing to the north.
The slightly monastic feeling makes it a great place to get some reading in, without the intimidation that can come from hanging around old-​money university libraries. And it’s easier to sneak in a coffee from cafes across the street.
The selection is pretty standard for a small branch. The kids’ selection on the ground floor isn’t bad, and there’s a growing graphic novel shelf tucked away in a corner of the upper floor.