Toronto Reference Library, Public research library in Yorkville, Toronto, Canada
The Toronto Reference Library is a public research facility in Yorkville with contemporary architectural design. It features expansive glass walls and open interior spaces that allow daylight to flow throughout the building, creating an airy feel inside.
This central branch of the Toronto Public Library system opened in 1977 as a modern research facility. Architect Raymond Moriyama designed the building with his signature contemporary approach.
The library's name comes from its function: most of its books, manuscripts and microfilm are for reference use only and cannot be borrowed. Since 2014 the Toronto Comic Arts Festival Store has operated inside the building, first as a pop-up shop in December 2014, and the library also hosts public reading events.
The facility offers many work areas, public computers, meeting rooms, and equipment studios for members. During busy hours, seating fills up quickly, so arriving earlier in the day gives you better chances of finding a spot.
The library's 1977 building was designed by Raymond Moriyama after Toronto's municipal government rejected his first scheme in December 1973, partly over glass cladding during the energy crisis; the approved 1974 design used brick instead. The interior later served as a filming location for the 2010 film Red.
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