Toronto Public Library - North York Central Library

The North York center is incredible this time if year. The library is located near the back. Wonderful library with tons of great books.

Noisy and crowded. Library staffs are not doing anything to reduce the noise. Difficult to study without headphones. Today two girls were loudly talking and when I asked them politely to lower their voice, they responded with violence and told me to find another place for study. Even when I told library staffs about it, they couldn’t help much. Those girls were disrespectful and rude. Come on. Make it a better place you moronic noisy ppl. Library is there for quiet study, not gossiping.

A fantastic library with books catering to every subject and very helpful and wonderful staff

Another noisy library. You can hear kids talking on ground floor from upstairs. Disrespectful teenagers and young adults treating here as party room and space. I don’t understand the purpose of Toronto city to build LIBRARY but there is no noise control. Even staff is talking pretty loud that I can hear her from 4 meters away.

The only good thing better than the other one is you can book study room ahead (still can hear noise outside and next door).

It would be a nice library if you come here not for quiet space.

A rather large library that has 5 floors within the North York Centre mall.

There are many floors of just books and I assume there's other materials that you can borrow as well. There are what seems to be multiple computer labs/areas. There is a chill and study areas. There is a eLearning lab, a Fabrication Studio (lots of sewing machines in the room), and an Digital Innovation Hub. There are rooms that I think you can book to use for things like meetings or group projects etc. There is also a kid play area.

This library is pretty busy. Lots of people going on and about. Working on things, napping, chilling, studying. This library has a lot going on for it. Recommend you visit this library if your nearby.

Honestly the coolest Toronto public Library I been in. A lot of room has piano room but it requires to be booked in advance. Overall nice vibe and chill.

Love the atmosphere and modern look after the renovation! So many great books and resources, and a quick place to study or work.

How can ALL 6 FLOORS be so loud? Like, there is not a single quiet spot to study! This is especially bad in the afternoons. When I requested the staff to talk to the two boisterous groups in the "quiet" study area, her blank stare told me that she was not trained to do this nor understood that this was her responsibility. The study rooms are even noisier, because the walls are paper-thin and there's usually a party of teenagers next door.

Edit: today the self-check-out machine was not able to process a book. When I asked the front desk lady for help, she took a second, looked me up and down, and asked, "are you SURE this on-hold book is for you? " Wow! She could've checked herself, she could've asked in at least a neutral tone. When you are so lazy that insulting the customer is more convenient than a swipe of their card, you don't deserve the cushy job that so many unemployed people would kill for. Yes, I am sure that hold was for me, as sure as I am that you are an unhelpful, rude, overweight library lady who can't even handle the most menial job, and that you even have a job because the computer errors out sometimes; as sure as I am that your employment is more temporary than you think.

Great library. There will be more people in the afternoon, so it is recommended to go early. Nice environment and convenient transportation

Such a wonderful place to work and study; you can find various books you might need and it is actually so big that you can find your comfort zone to focus.

In about 9 am Wednesday
Waiting to the door the library wasn’t open yet
What time it should be? Now it’s about 9: 15 am the door library hasn’t open yet

Always very loud. Kids crying in the hallways, young students chatting, eating, and talking on their phone anywhere.

Generally a well-maintained safe space for book-lovers. Most of the frontdesk staff I've dealt with are friendly and helpful. The exception is this one rude Persian lady working at 4th floor feontdesk who will stare at you with an attitude as if by asking her for help you are greatly inconveniencing her. Overall, 4~5 stars!

Great place for adults as well as kids, with an entire separate kid section. In addition to books, there are two play vehicles (bus and car), as well as blocks.

There are 3D printers that can be booked as well.

Very large and modern. Lot's of nice reading areas as well. Holds are now on the second floor.

I’ve been to a hand full of TPLs but this one is easily the biggest and most resource full location.

To start off, there is no free parking so this will need to be a downtown type adventure with the TTC.

Each floor has a different focus by media category, beverage consumption rules and other resources.

Each floor has washrooms and a water fountain.

On the underground floor, there are computers and a collection of old newspaper articles that you can pick out manually and project on top the computers (the process and film has a name, I forgot it)
This is a veery cool way to have a blast to the past

They have music practice rooms and even rent out some instruments.

There are plenty of computers to use and pods to book for secluded studying.

They even have digitally/mechanically moving bookcases on some floors.

They have available WiFi and a cafe just out side the entrance of the library.

Great spot to explore for sure. Something to do if you are from Toronto

My favourite library. I love the huge collection of books, so many corners and chairs to settle in, and the access to computers. They also have classes on a regular basis for basic computer skills and sewing etc. Best thing ever!

Perfect place to study and read. Excellent environment. Free Wi-Fi and power plugs at most desks and benches.

Great location, helpful staff, clean space. The children's section is wonderful, and their programs, ie: Family Time, are very well executed. Thank you!

The library has gotten so loud! It feels like a community centre in there! I was at the fifth floor looking for study space and it was full, but I eventually found a spot on the 2nd floor. Great. Now the 2nd floor and whatever else goes on there.is so loud! The librarians are talking loudly and laughing, pushing their carts loudly, the elevator keeps making sounds. No wonder so many people around have their earbuds in! I had to get up and leave out of frustration 15 minutes later. Library is no longer a quiet space for studying. Shame, because it used to be.

Do not come to this library expecting a quiet space to study, focus and concentrate. It feels as if the notion "be quiet, it's a library" doesn't exist here! Always some annoying sounds going around.

If you are high schoolers looking to gather with your peers to talk about group projects or collaborate, this is the place. Feels like a community centre or marketplace - just as other's have mentioned!

However, book selection is good. Nice wide variety.

I've lived within North York for over a decade and have been frequently visiting this branch consistently over the years. For the most part, I really like this branch, however at times not so much. Earlier today, there was a representative at the front counter who couldn't even speak fluent English. She had absolutely no idea what I was talking about in my inquiry, nor could provide a responsive answer, nor could assit me in any capacity. This is ridiculous. Toronto Public Library should be more selective in whom they hire.

I enjoy coming to the north York TPL. It is large and spacious with a very comfortable modern design. The oval-ish design is very visually intriguing. The placement of this library in the North York Civic Centre was ingenious. There are a variety of recognizable restaurants to eat from that are in walking distance and the subway is directly below the centre. The expansive amount of books/movies/audiobooks/games to borrow is just phenomenal. I really appreciate the fact that there are 2 3D printers with full-time staff to help guide you. There is also a fabrication studio that I have not personally used, but I've heard it is very useful. I like the fact that you can lounge on basically every part of the library (even the stairs). Study rooms are almost always available, which is great for students. Wifi speed is mediocre and it is very quiet- it is a great working environment. The children's area is probably one of the best aspects of this library if you have very young children. It's not all rainbows and sunshine- unfortunately, the staff are not always in the best of moods, the bathrooms are unsanitary and the free-to-use computer peripherals could be cleaner/newer. I'd suggest bringing your own computer or wipes so you don't have to touch the unsanitary computers. As for the bathroom situation, I'd suggest going to the food court's bathroom because it is way cleaner. Although this library could improve on some minor things, it is a great workspace placed in an ideal location.

What a huge library. Huge space is dedicated for kids as play area. Insane collection of books and easily accessible by public transport.

This place is perfect to study/work in. You might need private room, you can find here. There are several piano in the music room that you can use. You can find many facilities such as 3D printer in here - apart from a little bit of noise from people and children wandering around, everything is perfect to come here and use free public facilities.
Oh, there is a very interesting case part for children to play in!

I like the abundance of chairs and desks for studying: they have turned every inch of available space to study space including even the stairs: I really like the vibe in this branch

Probably the fastest internet speeds out of all the public libraries in Toronto.great place to study, work, or chill out and read/watch streams.

Love this library for my little one! There's so many cool things to play with including the magnetic ball wall and so many sensory elements on the play bus and car.

Been my go-to library for a while now. Good service, booked my study room through phone call and they're very prompt in responding. Study rooms are spacious and accessible. Charging ports available

Absolutely huge library, very professional and helpful. The only better Library is at Bloor and Yonge, definitely worth the travel.

I feel bad to write this review but if you are looking for somewhere quiet to study, i don't recommend this place. I have been in so many libraries, but this is my first time in this library and probably the last time! People are laughing loud, speaking loud, etc! It is unbelievable. I do not see any problem with the staff members as they are trying to keep the area quiet, but some people are very inconsiderate!

Computers, particularly monitors, are mainly old. They renovated just the building without upgrading the equipment.

The number of computers is not enough given the high number of visitors who need to use computers at the library.

Washrooms are not properly ventilated. They are usually dirty and smelly.

The library closes too soon on weekends. On weekends, people have more free time and want to study at the library.

Went to the third floor and saw an empty study room. It said to go to the first floor to get a ticket. I go to the first floor. They say to go to the third floor and talk to security.
I go back to the third floor. They tell me it’s first come first served.

Do not go ticket hunting. You do not need to.

Previous:
Libraries are one of the few places that a student can study without having to make purchases.

The operational hours of his library are extremely dissatisfactory (Sunday it opens at 1: 30pm and closes 3.5 hours later).

Being in a very studious area, this library should be open a lot later. It’s not warm enough outside anymore that people can study at Mel Lastman Square.

I mostly study at the McDonald’s at Sheppard and Yonge (15 min walk south) because it’s 24 hours.

If this library was open until 10pm every day (like my college’s library is) I would be satisfied but it closes at 5 or 8 every day.

I hope this review helps improve the library because I really need a study space where I don’t had to buy coffees every hour.

Very large space! Easy to find spots and has a large variety of books. You can find every book here. The best part is it’s accessibility. And it’s beautifully built and maintained.

One of the most peaceful place for book lovers in North York, biggets collection, latest books available. Staffs are very friendly, childrens section staff are the best. You need to come early morning to get room allocations. Washrooms are neat and clean. Lifts available. I generally go for medical books and you have a good collection of medical books including Mccqe 1&2 books. Toronto notes etc.available. Staffs are very friendly here. Starbucks is just attached to the library. And this is located at Mel Lastman square. There is North York station subway just opposite. TTC available.paid parking is available in the road and its very limited and usually busy. One of the best library in GTA

Love this library. Its very quite and huge.
Whenever I feel bored and don't have any plans I just go here with coffee food and spend my entire day.
I haven't been here recently, missing it so much.

This library has been essential for our family pre covid and post covid times. Great selection of books. Pre Covid had some good programmes and kids play area.

Truly one of the best libraries I have ever been.

This location rivals toronto reference library in size and services. One of my favorite places to visit and use. I love the additions of the maker space. Great for the whole family too!

The safety measures are amazing. The staff have also put in a blackboard a list of subject which might be of interest, and they could help you with the choice of books

This library is quite amazing. Huge, with friendly staff. There's also this woman named Deb who runs the toddler time program. She does a fantastic job.

Love the place! It's spacious, newly renovated, offers classes in studios, quiet areas where one can read or study and has a kids play area.

Spacious, lots of seating available with a safe distance from other library people, and I swear the internet is faster now.

Always a fan of public spaces where there's no incentive for you to buy anything!

Hands down one of the best Toronto Public libraries. A great collection of books, a good number of computer devices, children space, printing and scanning facilities, group study rooms, many study spaces. Very ttc accesible (same building as North York Centre subway station). Staff are always helpful

Love this renovated library however it is way too loud inside to study. Appreciate they created fun spot for kids, but would have been better if they also have a door or something in that kids' spot - too loud kids noise so this library does not have a function for 'study' except for 'study room' which only available few between 2nd to 4th floors and need to book ahead. Even for the study room, you don't want to book 4th floor - you can hear everything what is going on at 5th floor through ceiling and 5th floor does not have study room. 4th floor study room is not quiet AT ALL. Staffs are really nice though and have a lot of activities going on, so definitely great spot for community but not so much for studying.

Great place to study or catch up on books. Huge selection of novels and non-fiction. Plenty of group and single study rooms, although they tend to get filled up quickly.

This is definitely one of the best TPL locations in Toronto. I think maybe only the Bloor Reference library is better. This place is absolutely massive with around 4 floors of books and interesting spaces. The main floor has a dedicated teen area with load of books, manga, and computers/gaming systems. On the other side of the main floor, there is a kids area with all sorts of fun activities. The second floor has some unique spaces including a digit innovation lab with 3D printers, a green room for filming and a sound editing room. There is also a sewing studio on the floor. The higher levels have books and study rooms. The whole library was recently renovated, so it looks really clean and updated. Honestly, this place is amazing. I just wish it was open 24/7.

If you want to study there, be sure to book a study room in advance. Or get in really early to get a booth. Otherwise you might find the food court a better choice.
There are some rather angry woman sneaking around, looking into your computer and demanding your seat.
The library staffs, however, are very friendly. There’s just not much they can do, since it’s a PUBLIC library.
Someone has to ruin it for everybody.

- Great and lovely staff
- Lots of room
- Clean (bathrooms could be much more cleaner)
- Good ventilation and temperature regardless of the season.

The Library itself is terrific, what isnt, is the mens washrooms on floors 3 and 4. Major health hazzard way too small and piss everywhere, even ad the first to use it in the opening hours it's not been cleaned. Feet literally stick to the floor, then taking it all out and walking on the library carpets. Please please get a cleaner to clean these bathrooms and at least 3 times a day. Get some bleach and get in there with a mop. This is a major health issue. The stench reeks to high heaven Inexcusable!

What a great space for fun & interactive stations for children of all ages.
The study stations / work areas are amazing! This place has come a LONG way from when I use to frequent my local library.
Nice nooks to just sit and read as well. Every space has been thought through. I see many many families enjoying the space

This library is amazing! The amount of stuff it has for kids, is as good as taking toddlers for a full day trip! It’s surely the best library I have visited till date. It’s current form is not even a year old and is still under renovations. The facilities available are great. There are plenty of discussion rooms and ample of space to do whatever you want. I particularly like the red comfy chairs on the first landing which are hard to miss. This is surely something that makes the city of Toronto great!

One of the best library in the city. Friendly staff, books and a nice play corner for young kids on the first floor, digital innovation hub (3d printer) and sewing room on second floor, art and literature on the third floor, business, science and technology on fourth floor, Recently they open a books end store in the lower floor. Plus you can register free classes to join through their website. Though spaces is limited. Compare the one used to be before the renovation, this is amazing! Favourite place to hang out.

Newly revamped, this library lookin' fresh they practically have a children's playground inside on the first floor (I had fun there too lol). A security guard and many staff who is always happy to help me. There's many study area/rooms and laptop ports and gaming area. They have many features films, Hollywood movies, and classics. I recently borrowed Steel Magnolias movie.fav line from the movie ". Here, take a wack at Weeza. " lol

Very very noisy full of alot new ""canadians"" apparently they do not understand libraries are supposed to be a quiet place and the staff is more concerned with offending them then doing something about the noise

Hard to locate upon arrival. When i was told it was inside a mall, i had my doubts about how large this place could be. Boy was i wrong. This is such a large library, a real gem. Lots to do in the kids area, the staff were friendly and accomdating. The kids area was closed off sosound was isolated from the rest of the study areas. We.ll be going back.

One of the best library in the city. The staff are very welcoming and tte kid area as that's where I go mostly AMAZING. Just a great space and wonderful selections of books and activities for toddler and kids as well. LOVE this place.p

This library is spacious, bright and clean. After many months of renovation, it now houses incredible facilities such as a digital innovation hub with 3D printers, vinyl printer and iMacs loaded with design software. There is a fabrication studio with sewing machines, serger, embroidery machine, fabric cutter, vinyl printer/cutter and button maker. There is also an audio visual recording studio.

This library is absolutely beautiful after their recent renovations. My favourite part of the space are the maker spaces on the second floor. They have 3D printers, sewing machines, vinyl sticker makers, embroidery machines, and computers loaded with the adobe suite and a lot of other programs. It has a great looking kid space that is mostly soundproof to the rest of the library, which is great if you’re here to study or read.

A central nexus for the community. Given new life by the recent total renovation, including much more computer and electronics oriented facilities, study spaces, and sitting areas.

Terrible experience every day I have visited here. Most of the time, People r talking in the quiet study area. Today one couple (red n blue dress) were talking continuously in the third floor on the quiet study area during morning time. I told staffs that they r talking. But staffs did not take any action as the staff did not see them talking. When the staff left the area, the couple again started talking. It was a terrible experience. Why Toronto reference library doesn’t announce every hour that people should not talk in quiet study area? Well probably management doesn’t know how it feels when u r trying to concentrate on the study n others r talking. You should not call this crowded place as a library. Instead, You should call it Toronto reference market.

Newly-renovated with carpeting and wood panelling for a bright but comfortable ambience. Rivals Reference library for spaces and facilities. Can be crowded at times and some computers insist you use Internet Explorer, for whatever reason.

It’s not much improvement from year long renovation.the 5th and 6th floors are still close and the washrooms especially ladies are still the same; very small for a big library! Only positive is that they got rid of the offices that was on the left side and put more study rooms; more study tables. The place gets busy during exam times and I haven’t seen any security walk around cause there some inconsiderate people eating their smelly lunch in library and study rooms.