About the project
Toronto Public Library has been planning for a new district library since 2008 in response to several critical factors, including projected population growth in this part of the city and the condition of the current St. Lawrence branch.
We have purchased a building at 339 Queen Street East to house the new library branch. The new location is approximately 900 metres from the current branch, about a 15-minute walk.
At its current location, the branch operates in a leased space designed as a neighbourhood branch serving the local community. At the new location, the branch will become a district branch designed to serve broader communities in a larger space with additional services.
The new branch will feature:
- larger collections
- more open hours
- barrier-free access to technology
- digital literacy training
- options for individual and group workspaces
- properly zoned spaces for different age groups
- an interactive early literacy centre for very young children
- dedicated youth spaces
- flexible programming and event spaces
Community consultations
From April to September 2026, we connected with the community through consultation sessions, focus groups, and community events to gather ideas about library spaces, collections, programs and services for all ages. View the April 2 Open House presentation and the July 23 virtual consultation recording for more information about the project.
On September 17, we shared project updates and early design plans for the new branch, shaped by community feedback. View the presentation and information session recording for a recap of the session.
Thank you to everyone who shared their ideas and feedback. We’ll continue engaging with the community as the project moves forward, including on the collections, programs and services you’d like to see in the new branch.
Frequently asked questions
Why are we replacing the St. Lawrence branch?
The current St. Lawrence branch is undersized at 4,833 square feet (449 square metres.). The building has significant maintenance issues, resulting in several branch closures.
There is a need for a large district library in this part of the city due to projected population growth, as identified by the Library's Facilities Prioritization Framework. The new branch will fully meet the TPL's Service Delivery Model for district level library services in this underserved part of the City.
The new location will be further away for many people in the current St. Lawrence neighbourhood. Have you considered maintaining some library services near the current location once the 339 Queen Street East branch opens?
There will be an opportunity to explore options for maintaining some library services in the St. Lawrence community. While this is a new area for TPL, we plan to investigate what may be possible. With the new branch not expected to open for another 2.5 to 3 years, there is time to consider potential approaches.
What safety and security measures will be in place at the new location, both inside and outside the branch?
Safety is an important consideration in the design and operation of all TPL branches. TPL aims to create welcoming public spaces while prioritizing the safety and security of staff and customers. As the new branch is developed, TPL will assess its needs to determine the appropriate measures to support a safe and welcoming environment.
Can the location of the 339 Queen Street East library be changed?
No. The location has been confirmed, and the new library at 339 Queen Street East will go ahead as planned.
What will the hours be at the new branch?
The new branch will have expanded hours. It will be open Monday to Friday 9 am to 8:30 pm, Saturday 9 am to 5 pm and Sunday 12 pm to 5 pm.
When will the new branch be ready?
The project kicked off in the first quarter of 2026 with design and community consultations. The approximate project completion is expected in approximately 3 years. The website will be updated as more information is available.
The St. Lawrence branch currently located at 171 Front Street will remain open while the new branch is being prepared.
If you have additional questions about the project, please email StLawrenceProject@tpl.ca