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Toronto Public Library Pilgrimage of 100 Branches

Family-Friendly Perth/Dupont (1983)

Window art by Penelope Keith.
Window art by Penelope Keith.

When I found Perth/Dupont Library after a pleasant stroll in the Junction, I was struck by how architectually-integrated the branch seemed. It looked like it had been lovingly tucked into its storefront room by the surrounding community.

Similar in size to Davenport Library, Perth/Dupont’s interior was off-white with olive trim and featured an exposed grey heating duct that snaked around three walls.

IMG_0517IMG_0426 IMG_0575Not only was the library building in harmony with its neighbourhood, community artwork that decorated the interior also reflected the local style of architecture.

IMG_0582IMG_0482 On my first visit in 2010, a blue alligator had kept watch from a platform above a square column built into the southeast corner of the library. And on a matching platform in the southwest corner, two white teddy bears with red-ribbon bow-ties served as guardians of their domain. In 2013, artwork had replaced alligator and bears, but luckily some photographic evidence of the blue gator remains (providing a solid clue that my camera skills have improved).

IMG_0552My 2013 visit also revealed a vision of flowers behind the bookshelves. Placed there to catch the rich southern light, the flowers delighted me with their winter-defying spirit.

IMG_0533IMG_0534IMG_0538Near the centre of the south wall was a heavy wooden frame that supported a large dragon face. This creature was a very toothy specimen indeed, and it sported a fang overbite without braces.

IMG_0497Not outwardly intimidated by the dragon, I sat at a table between the Portuguese collection and the checkout desk for a few hours, soaking up a typical weekday afternoon at a branch that appeared to be a second home to the families who brought their kids to read and play.

IMG_0586When patrons came in, the librarian at the desk greeted them by name, including the smallest ones. What’s more, she engaged in relaxed conversations with the parents and didn’t yell when a few rambunctious kids crawled inside the paperback display frames. When the game of chase grew more wild, mindful moms said, “Remember we were going to practice our inside voices? This is a library, not a playground.”

IMG_0527Even though Perth/Dupont is not technically a playground, I liked how the kids showed a natural sense of ownership; they knew it was their library even if, in their exuberance, they may have tested the acceptable limits of indoor decibels. What better testimony to Perth/Dupont’s genuine welcome to local families!IMG_0520

2 replies on “Family-Friendly Perth/Dupont (1983)”

Hi Catheraine,
Thank you for the amazing pictures of the branch, and the link to my facebook page. Super photos!
Penelope

You are most welcome, Penelope! And thank you for your kind comment. I loved your artwork on the window.

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