We finally made it to #99. That is, Fort York Library, Toronto Public Library’s 99th branch that opened earlier this summer south of Front St. along Bathurst. Bordered by new condo high rises and busy streets and tracks, this airy, modern light-filled 16,000-sq-ft building is a gorgeous new spot for urbanites young and old to enjoy books. And library-goers with kids in TOw will feel right at home upon entry. The main floor is spacious (stroller-friendly) and has a fairly large seating area with kid books and a few toddler toys to keep ’em entertained, at least until the GO trains and streetcars whiz by and grab their attention.
Main floor entrance
Entrance along Fort York Blvd
Sitting area
TRIP TIPS:
Getting there: On transit, take the 511 streetcar southbound from Bathurst subway station or northbound from Exhibition to Fort York Boulevard. Driving, there is very limited street parking on Fort York Blvd east of the library and some north of Front St. ($2.25/hr) We parked near the Green P parking lot at Portland and Front and crossed over the foot bridge. Some good train spotting.
Low-down: Free of course. Closed Sundays. Open 9 am to 8:30 pm Monday to Thursday and open 9 am to 5 pm Friday and Saturday.
Activities: The Fort York branch has the typical library offerings. Check out the schedule. Like in every branch, borrow books. Children can get their own library card. You can also check out a Museum + Arts Pass.
Potty time: Baby change tables yes. Family washroom yes.
Food: There are some tables. Be considerate with your snacking.
In the hood: A new Tim Hortons “Coffee House” to the east. Canoe Landing Park to the southeast and Fort York to the west.
DYK (Did you know): It has a green roof. There is a public art project with work by Charles Pachter and poetry by Margaret Atwood.
DETAILS:
Fort York Branch
190 Fort York Boulevard, Toronto, ON
Tel: 416.393.6240
www.facebook.com/torontopubliclibrary
@torontolibrary
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