Toronto Reference Library Toronto
Literally awesome!
Bookmark the Toronto Reference Library as a must-stop on any downtown tour – especially given its super convenient location at Yonge & Bloor.
Once inside Canada largest reference library, you’ll find yourself strolling through a spacious atrium. Above you, four stories of curving balconies and layered ceiling capture the building’s progressive construction, and marks Toronto’s state of modernity at the library’s opening in 1977.
Among the floors are all manners of books, historical photographs and maps, art posters and rare manuscripts. Poke around and you’ll even discover a piano practice room and a sheet music collection.
Fans of Sherlock Holmes will want to check out the works devoted to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. The collection is housed in a replica of his famous study on Baker Street in England.
At the base of the atrium is a staging area for literary events, and numerous glass-walled rooms for groups. My favourites are four, round study pods arranged in a dot pattern on the second floor. Many computers are available for free. 3D printers can be used for just the cost of the plastic.
The long balcony counters on any floor offer a great vantage spot to scope out the comings and goings of people at the entrance; and, the ups and downs of people taking one of two glass elevators.
Exit past the gift shop.
What’s Spot On:
• Soothing sound that emanates from waterfall feature
• Cup of joe from one of Toronto’s fave coffee chains, Balzacs, located just inside.
About this spot
Explore cities like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Toronto guide.
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Toronto
The Green Jar – A sweet sustainable shop
The store offers containers for specialty recycling which would otherwise be tossed in the trash, and they even help with the hosting of recycling events.
By
Cassandra
Della Mora
Allan Gardens Conservatory – Ready for some green?
"Allan Gardens Conservatory", strangely advertised as a major Toronto landmark, remains a well-kept secret. Have a picnic in 100s of flowers and old trees!
By
Mauricio
Alas
Arcadia Earth – An inspiring, immersive experience
Throughout the experience, you’ll visit several different rooms, each with its own focus on threats to our precious planet, such as electronic waste.
By
Cassandra
Della Mora
Arts Market – Great selection of artisanal gifts
From beautiful jewelry to handmade or vintage home decor, amazing artwork, and candles scented with classic Canadian smells, it’s a gift-givers heaven!
By
Cassandra
Della Mora
The Latest Scoop – Treasure trove for trend seekers
Each visit to The Latest Scoop is a like a little treasure hunt, with regularly updated inventory to keep up with the latest trends.
By
Cassandra
Della Mora
A Different Booklist – A bookstore for better
A couple of great finds I’ve gotten from this store are Braiding Sweetgrass, my favourite book of all time and The Intersectional Environmentalist...
By
Cassandra
Della Mora
Karma Co-op – A co-op for the conscious consumer
Somewhat tucked away in the Annex neighbourhood of Toronto, this sweet shop welcomes you with a selection of locally made baked goods you can take to-go.
By
Cassandra
Della Mora
Ecotique – Great for eco-friendly goods and gifts
I’ve bought a bunch here, from seed bombs to sustainable swaps like planet-friendly nail polish, and a pair of mittens made from old sweaters!
By
Cassandra
Della Mora
Pretty Clean Shop – A sustainable & stunning shop
There is so much to see in this stunning space, and they have such a wide selection, you could spend hours inside and still not see it all!
By
Cassandra
Della Mora
Coal Miner's Daughter – Canadian clothing and more
Their guiding principles are rooted in the slow fashion movement of quality over quantity, meaning sustainably and ethically produced pieces!
By
Cassandra
Della Mora
Brodawka & Friends – Sweet store for grabbing gifts
I’ve bought plenty here from a beautiful, sustainably-made beach towel to a gorgeous gold-dipped necklace - both were gifts for myself!
By
Cassandra
Della Mora
Broadview Espresso – Comfy coffee corner
"Broadview Espresso" in Toronto makes cappuccino just the way I like it -- almost scalding hot! I love sitting at the patio in the wooden seats...
By