Service Update
Starting August 15 to end of October, the Toronto Reference Library will undergo intermittent closures, limited access to computers and reduced hours, services and seating to replace the skylight windows. Some floors and collections will be inaccessible during this time.
Hours of operation, effective August 24:
Monday to Friday 11:00 am-8:30 pm*
Saturday 9:00 am-5:00 pm
Sunday 12:00 pm-5:00 pm**
*Between 9-11 am Monday-Friday, open for curbside holds pick-up and limited circulation services. Enter doors on Yonge Street, north of Balzac’s Café.
**The Marilyn and Charles Baillie Centre for Special Collections will be closed on Sundays from August 23 until the end of October.
What’s available:
- Floors 1-2 with limited seating and access to public computers and study rooms
- Library-run programs and events, including Salon programs continue as scheduled
- Collections in closed stacks will be available by request. Call 416-395-5577 ahead of your visit to confirm availability
- Exhibits in the TD Gallery, as scheduled
- Holds ready for pick-up
- Book drop
- Youth Hub and Digital Innovation Hub
- Premium Venue Services will continue. Contact the Venue Rentals team at venuerentals@tpl.ca with any questions about your booking.
What’s limited:
- Floors 3-5 will be closed
- Most collections on floors 3-5 will be available by request. Call 416-395-5577 ahead of your visit to confirm availability
- Access to Special Collections materials in the Marilyn & Charles Baillie Centre is by appointment only. Some collections will be inaccessible during this time. Contact trlspc@tpl.ca ahead of your visit
- Piano Practice Rooms will be unavailable
- Library Settlement Partnership services will be relocated to The Barrett YMCA Centre for Newcomers to Canada at 365 Bloor St E 18th floor, Unit 1800A.
About the project
Toronto Reference Library (TRL) is undergoing renovations to replace the majority of the building's exterior windows. This renovation addresses the deteriorating window conditions, to protect users and collections, as well as maintain building standards as part of the State of Good Repair.
Why we are doing this renovation work
The majority of the windows from the building's original construction in 1977 are starting to fail. This project replaces these windows and frames with new ones that can better control heat from the sun, and ultimately, better control the temperature during all seasons. The windows are made using required Toronto Green Standard bird-friendly, fritted glass to help prevent birds from flying into the glass.
How long will the renovation last?
The total windows replacement project started in March 2025 and is estimated to take 18 to 24 months. The work is being completed in phases to ensure as little disruption to public spaces and services as possible.
The replacement of the clerestory windows (skylights) are part of the final phase in the public area. The total windows replacement project is scheduled to be finished by November 2026.
What does the renovation look like inside and outside of TRL?
A temporary barrier and fencing protects the interior and exterior construction areas. Exterior scaffolding was installed on the outside of the building after the interior temporary barrier was installed.
There may be dust outside associated with this renovation at times, as well as temporary pedestrian traffic and walkway modifications.
Work at times may be noisy. Speak with staff to help identify quieter locations in the building. Please note that work may shift from day to day, and staff may not know which areas are being worked on next or when the work is completed for the day.
We want to hear from you
We are interested in your ideas and opinions regarding the TRL Windows Replacement Project. Tell us what you think!