- Restaurants |
- Nightlife |
- Shopping |
- Coffee & Tea |
- All
Toronto Reference Library
Category: Public Services & Government Libraries Libraries [Edit]
789 Yonge StToronto, ON M4W 2G8
(416) 395-5577
- Hours:
Mon-Thu 9:30 am - 8:30 pm
Fri 9:30 am - 5:30 pm
Sat 9 am - 5 pm
Sun 1:30 pm - 5 pm
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
22 reviews for Toronto Reference Library
22 reviews in English
-
Review from Mauricio A.
Toronto, ON
11/25/2011 11 Check-ins Here
This is our flagship library in Toronto. By far the largest library both architecturally and in size of its collection. The second largest library, I think is Albert Campbell in Scarborough and it pales in comparison.
The TFL is 5 floors and open concept to the extreme as you can see the building's ceiling by just looking up from the center of The Common's area.
From an architectural perceptive the TFL is decidedly 1970's, and although I do like the overall round/fluid touches found threw out, I have never been a fan of 70's pseudo-futuristic queues. However, thanks to the grand size of the building, the architecture actually becomes somewhat nondescript than tacky so I do not find it offensive.
Now since this is a reference library, most of the books cannot be borrowed out, which is a shame but many library have items in their collections that are meant to be kept safe. So I have no issue with that.
Now the main floor is where all the computers/wifi are and generally is always busy with people coming in, chatting, using their laptops and going out. You can also book PC's for an hour a day, and it is quite simple to do. I generally do it on my phone as I am going in and by the time I get inside, my PC is already waiting for me. There is also some PC's that can be used for longer but you have to wait in line. Unfortunately that is a crap shoot as it will come down to luck whether you wait at all or not.
Now the interesting thing about the TRL is they are more than just a library. Aside the PCs you can use, many authors drop by for a reading. Plus they have free classes ranging for ESL for new comers to how to run a business.
Also they have free movie screenings and seminars that you might find interesting. We should be happy that we have such a wonderful thing as this library to enjoy.
Oh, it should be worth mentioning, the library, although still open to the public is going through a major renovation which is schedule to last... uh, about 5 years.
So except it to become more noticeable as time goes by.
Still, a great Toronto landmark. -
Review from Roma M.
2/6/2012
I have a huge soft spot for this Toronto landmark (yes it is a landmark). I've been coming here to study for the vast majority of my undergrad and grad courses. This is pretty much the only library in the GTA to find old Moliere and French theatre costume books, Enquiries and studies on Economics research of workers and their equipment from the early part of the 20th century and European Municipal finance reporting along with their stats from the mid-70s.
The staff is knowledgeable and the A/C is cranked up in the Summer. If you're a film-buff, I'll have you know that a great deal of shitty, but high budget films have used the TRF as a set for a scene or two.
I wish they had longer hours though. It'd be super-forward thinking to have at least 1 library with long hours year-round.Listed in: February Food-Free Yelping…
-
Review from Melinda M.
Toronto, ON
11/7/2011 1 Check-in Here
The Toronto library system is amazing. Their website is incredibly easy and makes finding and ordering books a pleasure. 5 stars for the Toronto library website! The reference library does not "stack up" (pun intended), however.
Minus 1 star - they have thousands of books in this library that you cannot check out! What a waste! I understand for reference and non-fiction books that it is important for these to always be in house as a resource for people working on papers, but fiction? Really? I can't check out a novel? That's frustrating.
Minus star 2 - there is a security guard who sits at the desk of the library and insists on looking into your bag and seeing if you are stealing books. I sometimes go to this library because it is the nearest to work just to return a book. Sometimes when I am returning a book, I am also carrying with me ANOTHER library book, and the security guard requires me to show him the receipt from when I checked it out one week ago. As if.
Now, I go to the Yorkville Library. Neither of these things is an issue there, which makes it way better than the reference library for me. -
Review from Original E.
Toronto, ON
Updated - 5/4/2011
After climbing a tree across from the library I began to eat dates and spit out the pits onto the side walk. People were not very impressed, and when security was mentioned I quickly ran back into the library and buried myself on the 5th floor.
What an adventure!
What does this have to do with rating the library, well let me tell you. After having to spend hours reading endless material, I often need a mind refresher to get the red out of my eyes. The TRL is conveniently situated downtown, so when losing it what better location to be in right?
I mentioned in my last rating about the kimchi lunch across the street, well today I had my fill and boy was it ever delicious. The lady who owns the small counter - which is inside an internet cafe - cooks from a home stove and delivers tasty food.
Washrooms, same old same old, some things will never change. Although today I had no choice but to use the urinal, the toilet stalls were busy.
Let me end this useless unintelligible babbling by mentioning the second floor, great books on sociology, and one step closer to the exit.
http://www.youtube.com...1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
4/30/2011
The next best thing to a free ball scratch is a free back scratch. http://www.youtube.com...
But if… Read more »
-
-
Review from Vivek S.
1/7/2011 3 Check-ins Here
The Toronto Reference Library (TRL for the hepcats) is the grand poobah of this town's free book rental emporiums. The monstrous edifice is located just north of Yonge and Bloor. There are five floors where endless stacks of books, tables and study areas encircle a cavernous centre that is open to below. Sometimes you'll see little brown birds fluttering around this void, and then perching on a ledge to watch you read.
The building was designed by Moriyama architects. It's mostly a brick and glass affair, and though the inside is decidedly a 1970s version of "the future" (especially those glass elevators), it is not offensively so. I actually quite like it, especially the rounded corner motif which manifests itself everywhere. Just look! There is lots of natural light and it's quiet. The library is presently undergoing renovations (under the same architects' lead) but is still open to the public.
The first floor allows for food/drink and chit-chat but these are verboten elsewhere. There is wifi and computers for extended use, but the wait is usually long for these machines. The library also features events, readings, and lectures all of which can be found in their "What's On" guide. They have a small gallery on site, an A/V lab, a piano/practice room, meeting rooms, a newspaper room, a collection of maps... there's seriously a lot of stuff.
Considering this is some city-funded 'ish, Torontonians should take their time and check out everything the library has to offer.
Obligatory Title Pun: I go on TRL/Look how many hugs I get.
Menu Readability: For a library stuck in the 70s, at least their typeface usage is up-to-date.
Need to mention: This place is highly accessible. And you can call ahead to make sure they have the accomodations you need.
What this place teaches me about myself: I love the library.Listed in: Yorkville and You, Toronto Libraries
-
Review from Steph L.
1/19/2011
All the cool kids are doing it. Learning is sexy and books are cool.
If only Justin Timberlake had a song about Bringing Books Back.
It's one of the largest reference libraries in Canada. If you are doing some research, you'll most likely find what you need here.
The staff is very helpful and able to assist with questions.
Almost all the books here are only for in-library use. Some newer material can be found here that can't be found at other branches. There are five whole floors of learning.
My favorite floor is the 3rd floor for Business and Technology.
It's usually quiet and I spend most of my time here.
If you aren't into books, there are computer stations.
Free internet use, the computers are busy and the spots fill up quickly. Printing is easy as well and way cheaper than any of the print centers in the area.
Photocopiers are easy to use, you just need to put money on your library card.
The library is located downtown, so you are going to get a mix of patrons. Students, professionals, retirees, and angry homeless people.
For some reason I always get a crazy person next to me. This morning was no exception.
The guy next to me started angrily muttering things about hating animals as he perused boat websites. Probably looking for a way to dispose of a body.
Anyways, go to the library... go read... and watch your purse. -
Review from Sandra T.
Toronto, ON
11/4/2010
This is a really great library.
The area is large with a lot of tables for studying. The main floor is usually full of students but the space is so large there is still room to navigate around. The upper areas are more quiet with a lot of seating.
Makes me wish I was a student again!
There is a small browsery section where you can often find very current books/ dvds/ CDs to borrow i.e., I have found "The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest, The Help, Fall of Giants, etc in their Best Bets (7 day - no renewals) section.
The staff are extremely friendly and helpful.
The Yorkville library is also right across the street if you are looking for more "browsery" type material.
Great library! -
Review from Victoria M.
Toronto, ON
2/10/2009 ROTD 5/17/2009
I'd have to say the Toronto Reference Library is one of the best public libraries in the city.
I thought it would be kinda noisy as it's very large and open however that's not the case.
If you can't find a book at school defiantly check the catalogue of TRL because they'll probably have it. This has happened to me on way to many occasions where the books I need have been taken out already at all the libraries at UofT so I checked the TRL and it saved my life.
What to expect when you go to the library... some of the libraries and people who work there aren't really all that pleasant but there are some who are really helpful. There's a main computer area on the main floor and a dozen on the other floors so if you need to use one and forgot you laptop you can hook that up with no problem. Not to mention since it's a reference library there's a whole bunch of photocopiers so if you can't stay you can just photocopy the pages you need.
If you do plan on staying to study, and like to study in quiet, then I'd suggest going to one of the higher floors or getting a private study room on the main floor. Most people are studying and grabbing books from the 1st and 2nd floor, so there can be some distraction. Just go up a floor or two and it's all good. -
Review from Julianna B.
Toronto, ON
Updated - 8/14/2009
Just a postscript to my previous review. I still love the TRL, and it is a wonderful institution - but it's a frikkin' labour of love getting things from the stacks. In list form:
1. Find I can request books from the stacks on computer. Oooh! This is easy.
2. Find out I can pick which floor they show up on. Oops, some of them are being sent to the wrong floor. Go in, seconds after I made the request, and update the request with the right floor.
3. Wait the suggested 15-20 minutes before looking at the hold shelves.
4. 40 minutes after I make the request, find some of them on the wrong floor. Where are the rest?
5. The lady at the general enquiry desk directs me to the holds people. After I get someone's attention, he promises to go look.
6. Half an hour later, find out the books have disappeared.
7. Make more requests on the computer; wait forty minutes. When the books don't arrive, go home tired.
TRL, I love you, but you need to fix this.Listed in: Toronto Libraries
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
4/28/2009
I love going into the Toronto Reference Library. The grand central court has an airy, grand feeling… Read more »
-
-
Review from Sapna G.
Calgary, AB
5/14/2010
I spent a bit of time here during my visit to Toronto mainly because I kept getting caught in the rain and needed a dependable retreat. Enter the Toronto Reference Library.
Not only is this place warm and welcoming (they have water fountains and plants lining the lobby as you walk in), but they have the most extensive selection of reference books in all of Toronto. To add, they also have an entire information commons where people who have memberships (and even those who don't) can use their complimentary Internet.
I was super impressed with this library - it's one of the nicest ones I've ever seen and again, it carries the most extensive selection of reference books that I have ever seen.
The staff is friendly and helpful and the library is frequented by seniors, students and singles alike. -
Review from Madison A.
Toronto, ON
1/29/2011
I'm in awe of the Toronto Reference Library. For someone who loves books, seeing this many gathered in one beautiful building is thrilling (and so are the elevators....wee!). There are tons of tables to study at and you can call ahead to reserve group study rooms for 2 or more people (but these fill up fast...you need at least a few days' notice usually). Although there are computers you can use, they're often in high demand so it's better to bring your laptop if you have one. I'm anxious for the renovations to be finished because it's taking away from the awe-inspiring feeling of walking in and looking up through so many stories of books. I liked it as it was, but hopefully the reno will only make it better. An awesome place to come and learn about anything or get some serious school work done.
-
Review from August L.
12/11/2009
I use to study a lot at the TRL . I was just there a couple of days ago and forgot why I liked the place so much. It is great for many reasons:
1. It had wireless internet
2. There was a lot of space
3. Had plugs to hook up your laptops
4. Had HUGE tables to spread out all my notes
5. since it was so huge, it was somewhat quiet b/c the noise couldn't really bounce off the walls.
6. There was greenery inside
7. The library was literally opened from morning until night (except weekends) so it gave me the chance to study as long as I wanted w/o being kicked out.
8. you can eat and study on the first floor
The only things that annoyed me (but only a tad) was:
1. There are only a very limited # of plugs to hook up your laptop on the first floor so you have to get there early or be lucky that they're not taken. (I liked the 1st floor b/c you could eat while studying)
2. A lot of tutoring happens on the first floor so it gets a little loud.
3. Sometimes ppl smell....
What's really funny though is if you get to the TRL before it opens (they allow you to wait in the foyer), you see all these men of different ages lining up to the gates. They really look like a pack of bulls getting ready to charge. You can see them all starting to get antsy while they wait for security to give them the ok. And when security opens the gates, they all rush in like a stampede racing for the finish line. It's actually a little scary. You really have to move with the pack otherwise you'll get trampled. I don't suggest that this is something you have to experience in your lifetime but it's funny nonetheless.Listed in: Government Services
-
Review from Deanna W.
3/6/2009
If there was a battle between metropolitan libraries, Vancouver's grand coliseum would Ko TRL anyday. There I said it. Never been that enamoured with TRL for looks but then again the sweeping modern look of Vancouver's library has captured my heart.
Aesthetics aside, TRL is a big expansive cavernous creature with tons of room and tables for reading, studying or writing. Plus one can never complain with free wireless hanging around and the folks there are very friendly and most everyone who frequents this place is mindful of privacy and noise levels.Listed in: Libraries of Toronto
-
Review from karla l.
Toronto, ON
12/16/2008
Lots of books.
FREE.
Lots of computers.
FREE!
Very friendly staff.
Cool elevators.
Wireless internet.
FREE
Comfy chairs.
Easy to get to.
Open every day -- all you need is a library card.
No resevation necessary. -
Review from Connie T.
Toronto, ON
1/7/2009 1 photo
BROADCASTING LIVE, IN FULL EFFECT, from the Toronto Reference Library...
Yes, that's right. Free wireless Internet, y'all. Why go to a café when I can smuggle in my Nalgene and type away for free?
This library doesn't have the serious, academic flavour of other grand city libraries, but it's big, open, and I always find a good seat to study. I spent a lot of my waking hours working on my fourth-year thesis, so it really feels like a second home. And the staff has always pointed me in the right direction whenever I needed their help.
Aside from the actual library offerings, one of my favourite things to do is to zone out near the balcony and peer down at the other patrons who are trying not to fall asleep at their study carrels.
PS. What are those security guards checking for at the exit? They always ask, but 90% of the time their eyes are looking in the opposite direction of my bag. -
Review from Kim B.
ON
1/16/2009 40 photos
Even if you were to disregard the books, the services, the accessibility to precious information that this library offers, it would still get five stars.
It's such a great space to work, and even just sort of wander around and get warm (which is what I did when I took all my photos).
The architecture is sort of new AGO-esque, with its winding staircases, but its also got lots of amazing bits of natural elements in it. Two ponds (one with a mini-waterfall) are at each end of the buildings ground floor (there are 6 floors) and the PLANTS! They're everywhere, and they're old and established and full of personality (see my photos).
But most of all, the reference is a great place to go to work outside of your home and still feel....comfortable. There's great area's to sit, whether its at a big desk or in front of a computer and the lighting! Let's just say I don't envy the person in charge of making sure all the lights in the reference library aren't burnt out.Listed in: My FIVE Star Toronto, Book Nooks
-
Review from Kat F.
2/18/2009 3 Check-ins Here
I was on my way home from some errand running when I suddenly realized I could no longer hold my bladder - the Toronto Reference Library was the only reputable establishment in sight so I stopped in to check it out.
I was absolutely astounded by what I saw on my first visit - people READING BOOKS. And studying. And they weren't all students - it was people of all ages and walks of life enjoying the library's materials. Dozens upon dozens of computer terminals, magazine stations and benches all teeming with voracious information consumers. What a pleasant surprise! -
Review from Melissa J.
Toronto, ON
12/2/2008
This library does carry the biggest collection of all Toronto libraries, it's in a central location in the city, and it has been helpful to my life on many occasions (mostly in high school).
However, this library loses a star partially just on the faults of the Toronto Public Library system in general. You'd think that in a library that hold so many people and books on a daily basis, that they would update the library more often, and replace books that go lost or missing. But I've had so many experiences where I'll be at another library and will search for a book that is at the Reference Library, and upon arrival, will see that the book is nowhere to be found.
My experiences with staff at the Library have not been good either -- while looking through newspaper microfilm, I had a problem with the machine, and received little to no help in fixing it.
But, hey, if you are writing an essay and you don't go to U of T (therefore no access to Robarts), then TRL is a decent choice -- it's exponentially better than the Ryerson library, that's for sure. -
Review from Luke A.
Toronto, ON
9/13/2008 2 photos
If you want to go to a big public library, this is the one. The Reference Library is huge and imposing from the outside, but they have a great selection of reference materials (obviously). Some of the rarer stuff in the TPL catalogue (like, say, old LPs) is only kept at the Reference Library.
It's good for doing research, especially on local matters, and since it's not a lending library, what you're looking for won't have been checked out by someone else by the time you get there. It's spacious and serene inside, so it's a good place to peruse materials as well.
The downside, of course, is that you can't take anything out, either. You can make photocopies (by getting them to put credit on your library card), but the price isn't very economical, so it helps to have a good idea of what you really need to take back with you. -
Review from Mike S.
Toronto, ON
10/3/2008
The Toronto Reference Library (TRL) is one very impressive building in which Toronto does not take enough pride. I am not really speaking of the actual building, which is nice, but nothing really to write home about, but what it houses. The TRL is one of the most impressive reference libraries in the country and the whole city seems very blasé about the whole thing. I will admit it is a library and some people don't like libraries, but it is a wonderful library where you can read or study in peace or look up pretty much anything. I think that every resident of Toronto should visit the Reference Library at least once, it's very nice and worth the visit.
Like the review? Check out the link to my blog on my profile. -
Review from Alejandro A.
Toronto, ON
12/12/2008
Seriously, this place is better than the internet. If you're doing research on anything, whether it be an essay for school, a project for work or just for your own interest, this place is amazing when it comes to hard facts about pretty much everything. And while I suppose you could say that about most libraries, I must emphasize that the TRL is the king of libraries.
To me, this has always been the main downtown library. It's a 5 floored monster with books on most subjects. Many a time in my school going days I would find myself spending a day here just working on essays.
The lower level has a big archive of old news papers, so if you're a master in the art of patience, you can go through the literally thousands of archived newspapers on those film strip viewing machines (the name of which currently escapes me...)
In general, libraries are a place where you'll often get shushed. That is even truer in here. If you come to socialize, you'll probably get shushed 30 times in the first 30 seconds. Just a warning. -
Review from Jimi S.
ON
1/9/2009
i never spent any time studying at the reference library but what is clear is that there are hundreds of places to sit and work. everyone usually respects the silence needed to focus on ones tasks. every time ive been the computers seem to be tied up, but mainly ive been here for the performance section on the fifth floor.
behind the counter they have requests written on a whiteboard and other items they just got in i think. i dont know if its librarians as a creed of people, as a group of people whove been trained to use the same expressions, but they all seem to be upset when ever im there. like their underwear keeps getting bunched up. like they have a co-worker who has bad gas and seems even proud of it.
i dont know if i could say that i love any particular library because i think i have a tendency to fall asleep in them. its so intensely quiet. the grandness of staring down to the bottom floor and getting a peek at the others though, is exciting. its like a big gorge.
i wonder what would happen if i stood on the top floor and screamed at the top of my lungs:
ECHO! ECHO! ECHO!
