About the project
TRL is undergoing renovations that will replace the majority of the building's exterior windows. This renovation will address the deteriorating window conditions to protect users and collections, as well as maintain building standards as part of the State of Good Repair (SOGR).
Additionally, the Toronto Star Newspaper Room (TSNR) services, collections and staff will be moved from its current lower-level location to the 4th floor in late 2025-early 2026.
Why are we doing this renovation work at TRL?
The majority of windows from the building's original construction in 1977 are damaged. This project will replace the damaged 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.
The TSNR services are moving to the Languages and Literature Department on the 4th floor to improve customer experience through access to natural light, plants, and all levels of staff and collections in one central location.
How long will the construction last?
The total windows replacement construction period is estimated at 18-24 months and will be completed in five phases. Phase one will begin in April 2025 on the north-east side of the building. We will communicate details for the subsequent phases on this page as they are confirmed.
The TSNR move to the 4th floor is expected to be completed by mid-January 2026.
Which service areas/floors in TRL will be affected?
The windows work is being completed in phases to ensure as little disruption to public spaces and services as possible.
During phase one, all public areas near the windows and under the skylights on the north-east side of the building on floors 2 to 5 will be impacted.
During the TSNR move, both the fourth floor and the lower-level service desks and public spaces will remain open.
What is changing now?
- Some collections, public computers, and ScanPro microfilm scanners will be moved
- Study tables will be reduced
- Computers on the 5th floor will not be available
- Piano Practice Rooms will not be available
- Jack Rabinovitch Reading Room and Writers' Suite will not be available
Can I still book a study space or use a computer?
Yes, you can still book study rooms and pods, but there will be fewer available on each floor. Staff can help you with booking if you have any questions at the branch.
What will happen to the event I booked at TRL through Venue Rentals?
The phased approach to the window replacement work at TRL includes the continued operation of the Premium Venue Service. Please reach out to the Venue Rentals team at venuerentals@tpl.ca with any questions about your booking.
What will the renovation look like inside and outside of TRL?
A temporary barrier and fencing will protect the interior and exterior construction areas. Exterior scaffolding will be installed on the outside of the building on the north-east side, once the interior temporary barrier is 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. Please speak with staff for help identifying quieter locations in the building. Please note that work may shift from day to day, and staff may not know which areas will be worked on or when the work will be complete 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!