Our four priorities for the future, informed by you
We asked — how can your library help you adapt and thrive now and in the future?
And you answered. Thank you to the thousands of Torontonians who shared their ideas and told us what mattered most in their library.
With a new City Librarian and a five-year plan shaped by your feedback, we’re ready for what’s next.
Together, we identified four priorities—and we’re committed to delivering on each one to help Toronto adapt, connect and thrive.
1. Social connection, civic engagement and democracy
Libraries bring people together to explore ideas, connect with others and foster a sense of belonging.
We will embed opportunities for social connection, civic dialogue and critical thinking in everything we do, so that you have the skills to sustain a healthy democracy.
Ways we’re bringing this to life:
- Programs designed to combat isolation and build social connection, like Coffee and Conversation, Seniors E-connect, and book clubs and writers’ groups
- More opportunities for community dialogue and critical thinking, like our On Civil Society series and Celebrate Democracy resources and programs
- Creation of a Centre for Democracy to strengthen civic engagement by tackling issues such as polarization and misinformation
2. Shared community spaces
As Toronto grows, living spaces shrink, and there are fewer “third spaces” for Torontonians to work, play and be.
We will accelerate the enhancements of our spaces to create more welcoming, safe, inclusive and sustainable environments that build resilience and belonging in every neighbourhood.
Ways we’re bringing this to life:
- Enhanced outdoor spaces, like themed gardens, group and individual seating, pergolas and more bicycle parking
- Sustainable technologies and practices in branches, like the complete rebuild of our Centennial branch, our first net-zero branch
- Flexible, multi-use library spaces, like virtual interview rooms, study pods and co-working spaces for entrepreneurs
3. Learning and growth
Learning helps people adapt and thrive in a changing world.
We will expand learning opportunities for all ages to develop multiple literacies and personal and professional skills so that residents can thrive, build economic resilience and adapt to new technologies.
Ways we’re bringing this to life:
- Increased focus on building financial literacy, like expanding our Financial Empowerment services to more branches across the city
- Access to AI technology and training, like in-person and virtual AI Learning Circles
- More children’s literacy-based programs, like volunteer-led Leading to Reading for kids reading and writing below grade level
4. Awareness and availability
Libraries offer books, technology, learning resources and cultural experiences—but not everyone knows about them or can access them easily.
We will increase awareness and availability of library services, so that residents in every neighbourhood have equitable access to services that meet their changing needs.
Ways we’re bringing this to life:
- Increased library hours, including Sundays at all branches year-round
- Reduced wait times for popular materials
- Clear, simple information about library services and the benefits of a library card
Leading our next chapter
Since becoming City Librarian on September 1, Moe Hosseini-Ara is leading with a belief that libraries help communities flourish—and a promise to keep listening, evolving and building a more inclusive Toronto where everyone can adapt, connect and thrive.
See what’s next for your library
Want to dive even deeper? Discover our priorities, programs and initiatives for the next five years.