Boomtown Branch: Fort York Library (2014)

After crossing a footbridge over multiple railroad tracks, I found TPL’s newest branch around the corner from a new Tim Hortons and shiny condominiums — all on a brand new street.

Excited to photograph my 99th branch, I began in the first-floor reading lounge, which offered sunlit construction scenes and useful red benches that spanned the length of the west wall. When the benches reached the children’s section, a bookshelf appeared underneath the perching surface, showing consideration for the height and reach of TPL’s youngest patrons.

On the day of my visit, forty-one babies arrived to take part in the morning’s Baby Time program. This massive turn-out forced the giant ABC letters in the children’s area into temporary exile in the lobby. During the 30-minute program, I enjoyed how the sound of the energetic rhymes carried throughout the open space of the two levels, enriching the learning atmosphere by making it home-like, cheery, and inclusive.

The spaciousness of the branch supported one of the defined goals of Fort York Library, which was to welcome nearby condo-dwellers who might need extra work space outside of home. I learned this fact from the Children’s and Youth Services librarian for Fort York (a friendly young woman with crayon marks on her business card who fist-bumped customers that she knew by name). She also told me that many young families with children inhabit the local condos, hence the impressive showing at the program.

As I explored Fort York, I came to admire how TPL’s welcoming intentions manifested themselves in details such as Baby Time programs, ottomans with outlets, and study pods that resembled stylish covered bridges.

I also appreciated Fort York’s unique position as an observation post in the very heart of intense construction activity. From almost every vantage point in the library, evidence of a city on the edge of change met the eye.

Even the soaring angles of the ceiling and girder-inspired plays of light from the windows gave an impression of dynamic energy.

Although rampant construction near the shore of Lake Ontario rouses mixed reactions, nobody can accuse Toronto of simply standing still. Today’s dirt promises to be tomorrow’s Mouth of the Creek Park.

Whether you find the changes irritating or simply invigorating, Fort York Library provides both a frame and an example to showcase an evolving city in all its grubby glory.