Trish and I checked out the Retail Retrospective exhibit in the TD Gallery at the Toronto Reference…read moreLibrary Friday evening. It was fun to check out the shopping bags of yesteryear and share the memories they brought back. It's here until January 11 and free. "Glimpse the retail world of yesterday and celebrate Toronto's shopping scene through the decades. Retail Retrospective showcases vintage shopping bags from our Special Collections tracing the history of retailers that defined eras in Toronto. Rediscover the iconic and historic shops that shaped how our city shops today. Far more than vessels for carrying goods, shopping bags can double as advertisements, status symbols and snapshots of design history. Their physical form can even tell a story--paper or plastic."

This is definitely the coolest library in the Toronto system. Amazing architecture - features in…read morethe Weeknds music video Secrets. Huge library. Lots of seating throughout. Very busy usually but surprisingly quiet. The atrium and elevators are amazing. Free internet of course. If you are in the Yonge Bloor area this is definitely worth peak inside!!!

This place is my jam. Well, not really, considering it's a library with a quiet zone, but I love it…read morehere for all of my studying needs. It's pretty empty in the morning and there are three floors of studying space, which means you don't even have to be close to other human beings as you're studying! Fabulous! The computers boot up really quickly and there is an abundance of them. On the first floor, you have individual cubicles that fit two people, as well as long, coffee shop style tables behind glass doors. I like the second floor the best, because there are a lot more cubicles that you can sprawl out on. The basement gets super noisy at times because they have soft leather couches that faces towards the beautiful waterfall in Victoria College. You don't have to be a student at U of T to walk in, but if you want to print things you need a T-Card in order to do that, so come by purely for the atmosphere if needed.

Completing my trilogy of U of T libraries is the E.J. Pratt library located on Queen's Park…read moreCrescent or a stone's throw from the ROM nearby. Q: Gawd, another library review? A: Yes, it's prime studying season for many students and the Pratt library is another fine building to burn some brains cells away in. I've been spending an inordinate amount of time in these centers of information lately and thus, feel the need to pay homage to the gaw-jus libraries of U of T. Q: Yes I get that but how is this library different from Gerstein and Trinity (John Graham), two other gaw-jus libraries? A: True, U of T is really blessed with a few beautiful architectural delights (save for brutalist Robarts) and massive collections which serve as their academic libraries. However, Pratt differs slightly from the other two counterparts in that it is more minimalist looking.. Renovated earlier this decade, the building looks like a massive stone square box from the outside but inside it's a different story. On the main floor you'll find the Kathleen Coburn reading room on the right enclosed in glass walls and ikea styled tables. Quite photogenic. It's an elegant, bright and roomy space with separate carrels hidden along the far right wall inside for added quiet and privacy. Most study carrels at Pratt are equipped with internet sockets and individual reading lamps-a nice touch. Green, plastic moulded chairs provide the seating in the carrels. There's a staircase with a vibrant, illuminated wall leading up to the second floor. The second floor features the periodicals section, stacks, more individual carrels and a column of plush, black leather arm-chairs-perfect for digging into Pratt's luminous collection of poetry, history and philosophy texts. Way, way downstairs on the ground or if you prefer basement level, there's a lounge for eating, washrooms, enclosed study rooms and yes, even more study carrels. The study carrels line the perimeter of the basement floor and depending on where you sit, the large floor-to-ceiling windows open up to splendid views of Queen's Park or the tranquil, sunken garden and pond on the east side. Lots of natural sunlight flowing through on this level. Q: Wow, that sounds nice. But so do the libraries at Gerstein and Trinity. What sets Pratt apart? A: That's hard to answer, I suppose that Gerstein, Graham and Pratt are magnificent and stylish places for studying in their own right, they just have different personalities. Kind of like the male celebrities we know and love. So if we were to engage in analogies this is how I'd see the three playing out: Gerstein is brainy and modern with a gothic twist. Hmmm, this is tougher than I thought.... I'll take David Duchovny's cerebralness paired with Twilight's Robert Pattinson. John Graham or Trinity library is warm, charming and strikes me as quintessentially British in its design-definitely Colin Firth! Pratt library seems to have an urbane, polished feel, almost too good looking but still functional. It's definitely not it's celebutard's namesake but I have in mind Rodrigo Santoro or David Beckham. Heh. On another note, Pratt is smaller in size than Gerstein and tends to fill up quickly compared to the other two. Q: Errr, that's rather interesting! What if I find your taste in men questionable? Does that mean I can trust your judgment of libraries and places of study? A: Just check them out for yourself if you're downtown, the most you're likely to lose is an hour's worth of time in commute. Humour aside, they are truly fantastic and more importantly quiet places to get work done. So there you have it my take on three of U of T's most pleasing libraries. IMO.

Surprisingly, Toronto Reference library doesn't have a kids section. We were directed here while…read moreour 3D printer printed our items. My kid liked building with the magnetic pieces of felt and looking at books, even purchasing a book from their used book section.

Great selection of kids books and amazing entertainment. I love that they have toys for kids to…read moreplay with

Visited Osgoode Hall while exploring downtown Toronto. The…read morehistoric building is impressive, and the architecture is beautiful. It's easy to walk around and take in the details, with plenty of spots for photos. The guided areas are informative, though some parts are crowded during peak hours. The surrounding courtyard is peaceful and perfect for a short break. Staff are helpful and polite when approached for information. Overall, a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts, with a calm, relaxed atmosphere.

Stepping into Black Creek Pioneer Village feels like a warm hug from the past It's one of my…read moreabsolute favorite escapes from the city's hustle and bustle. As an educator, I'm always enchanted by how they bring history to life - the historic gardens are meticulously kept, and the artisans in the workshops are so passionate about their heritage crafts. I spent my last visit sitting near the old mill with my sketchbook, enjoying the peace and the smell of fresh woodsmoke. It's such a grounding experience, whether you're here for a quiet stroll or a family day trip. If you appreciate the simpler things in life and want to see a different side of Ontario's history, please visit! It's a true neighborhood treasure

It is very beautiful and not many people were there but it is a practicing University. You have to…read morego through a scanner but we had been shopping that day and had wine in the bags. We got through but if you are going there go earlier in the day.

The Lillian H. Smith public library is a large library with 2 floors. It is especially great for…read morechildren's books, on the ground floor. One side has fiction and DVDs and the other side has non-fiction (including academic books). They have books that other libraries don't have. There ar plenty of seats for reading books on sight. They have self-serve terminals for checkout. They are more sophisticated that other branches in that you can actually login and make reservations and pay over-due fines (there is a credit card terminal along side each station). The entrance doors are self-opening. In front of the entrance are two impressive dragon statues. Just inside the entrance is an information plaque explaining the history of Lillian H. Smith. There is a large Chinese section as well. The librarians are courteous. There is free WiFi.

The exterior of Lillian H. Smith Library is quite impressive! And those 2 dragon statues guarding…read morethe front door.. and more security guard inside to make sure we behave. The collections here are impressive.. especially for Chinese language books... have a lot recent best sellers and 7 days loan newer material. Lillian H Smith is different from other Toronto Public Library branches because it has special Children's collections that other branches doesn't have... With free Wifi everyone are happy... especially me!

I had saved this place to my list for a while. We visited downtown, and finally had a chance to…read morecheck the Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library out as well. There is street parking for 1 hr outside the library. This library is just an exhibition. The books and shelves are locked and blocked that we couldn't get the books or touch them. The first floor, there are some samples of 3D rare books. After that, you have to leave your belongings in the locker room, then you can take the elevator to the 4th floor. It's like a small room that you can observe from top to ground. It was impressive when stepped in. Since we couldn't actually touch the books, not much we could say. I believe they are all treasures.

The inside of Thomas Fisher Rare Book library is gorgeous! However a lot of this is off limits…read more Located inside one of the libraries belonging to University of Toronto, the first floor and the bottom-most floor of Thomas Fisher has a gallery right now. If you are to visit the bottom-most floor, you must store your jackets and bags inside a locker before you visit. There are many old books in Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library and it's all locked. I wonder who has the ability to go and borrow or read these books - it's magnificent to look at, but I also wish that there was some information on how we can read some of these books in the 3/4 storey building of this Rare Book Library.

after not hearing back at all after the cancellation due to the weather of the kabuki festival that…read morethey hold at the no mention about possible refunds or year or apologize to the people who have mobility issues who through great stress of having to organize getting there and cancelling and things like this we've made disenchanted with the way the Japan foundation runs, and how it treats people we were offered no reimbursement of tickets, even though they should've bought INSURANCE for such an event in such things happen. It is CANADA weather it does happen. I do understand that I do not know if I'll ever go go back any events because this one and the lack of even a polite response about it back

I am according Japan Foundation 4 stars because I have been a 'customer' for years and they provide…read morea unique service. Their uniqueness makes them precious. They offer exhibits on Japan, educational films, a library and lessons. The library supposedly accepts requests for books or films they should procure as well. I say "supposedly" because the two times I did place requests it went into a black hole, no one followed up or updated me and the items were not ultimately procured. Japan Foundation, located at Yonge & Bloor, is also an annoying entity. At best of times they maintained a sporadically haphazard schedule that made as much sense as a slalom course designed by a blind person. More recently, making COVID-19 an excuse, they have taken up to opening on alternate days (!) and for even more puzzling fun (!!) stay closed every second Thursday for added suspense too!!! They close for an hour in the afternoon and open again for an hour and a half before closing just after 5 making sure that they remain unavailable to anyone who works for a living. Confused yet? I think they achieved their goal (!!!!). Perhaps this is why their hours of operation are skillfully hidden on their website. I probably do not need to tell you this and you have already figured it out, but they are not open on most weekends (see above regarding making them as unavailable as possible), but then again they are open on the odd weekend.. sometimes... but not always. OK? Sarcasm aside, I wish I could get a job at Japan Foundation. I love those hours and schedule! OK, seriously, I am done with my sarcasm now. They have a visiting exhibition from Japan currently featuring original pieces of art that is worth visiting. The artifacts are beautiful. A girl at the door almost took the cake however. She was talkative, informative and friendly and was happy to relay that she used to live in Japan teaching English and was further happy to showcase the exhibition. A very kind hostess. Kudos to her. Has anyone ever wondered where the funding for these foundations comes from? They have them around the world. Do not look on their website or online for an answer.

Best library in UofT with excellent computers and comfy chairs. you can always find a…read moretable/computer even during exam period. Quiet and comfy. This is my favorite place to study!

I've been at U of T for nearly 6 years (in the 6ix!) and would have to conclude that Gerstein is…read moreone of my favourite libraries for a number of reasons. Walking distance First, it's close to most of my classes but also a 5-10 minute walk from most stations. Layout and seating I like how there are different types of areas. Some areas are more conducive for silent/quiet study, while other areas allow for group work. That's important to have as not everyone studies in complete silence. It gives the opportunity for students or other people studying to migrate to different areas when they need a change in environment. There's also a tiny balcony area above the silent study room, which I find to be neat. Green Beet! In my opinion, Green Beet is one of the better food places on campus. They have a selection of "healthier alternatives" and appear to be more frequently cleaned and maintained. The staff are friendly as well. Tips Book study rooms EARLY and don't be afraid to gently remind someone that you've booked that room for that specific time.

Gerstein, in my opinion, is the nicest library on campus…read more As the science library on campus, the stacks are full of science papers and textbooks - but really the best thing about this library is all the study space! People are pretty hardcore at Gerstein, especially during exams. There is always a crowd waiting for them to open the doors on the weekends, and it really is best to go early, especially if you have a favorite spot (two below at the back by the window, anyone?). They have three floors of tables where 6 or so people can sit, each with its own plug and light. They also have what I fondly call "the fortress" in the stacks - individual study carrells which also have their own light (and even a coat hook!) There are also "silent reading rooms", tables in the cafeteria, and even group study rooms. Gerstein is a peaceful looking library in neutral beiges and browns. It is definitely what a stressed out UofT student needs during exams (not the bright red, yellow, blue theme of the Robarts stacks!) So, go forth and study. But don't talk, listen to your music too loud, or eat food with noisy wrappers - or the hardcore students at Gerstein will eat you alive!