Nestled in the heart of Scarborough, the Scarborough Civic Centre Library stands as a shining gem among Toronto’s best libraries. More than just a place for books, this modern, inclusive space is a vibrant hub for learning, creativity, and community connection. With its striking design featuring green roofs, panoramic windows, and a warm spruce interior, the library blends seamlessly with its surroundings while offering cutting-edge amenities like a Digital Innovation Hub, free Wi-Fi, and interactive children’s spaces. As part of the renowned Toronto Public Library system, it proudly serves the diverse population of Scarborough, making it one of the best libraries in Toronto. Whether you’re searching for resources, exploring unique cultural programs, or simply looking for a peaceful corner to read, the Scarborough Civic Centre Library in Scarborough has something for everyone. Ready to discover what makes it one of the best libraries in Scarborough? Let’s dive in!
History and Achievements
The Scarborough Civic Centre Library in Scarborough has a rich history and a legacy of achievements that solidify its place among Toronto’s best libraries. Opened in 2015, it marked a significant milestone as the 100th branch of the Toronto Public Library system. The library was designed by LGA Architectural Partners in collaboration with Philip H. Carter Architecture, with a vision to create a modern, inclusive space for the growing Scarborough community.
Since its opening, the library has received several prestigious awards, including the Ontario Association of Architects Design Excellence Award and the Ontario Library Association Library Building Award, recognizing its innovative design and functionality.
The library has also garnered attention from leading media outlets, being featured in The Globe and Mail, Toronto Life, and Canadian Architect, all of which praised its architectural brilliance and its role in redefining what a modern library can be. These accolades underscore why it remains one of the best libraries in Scarborough and an iconic part of the community.
Library Features and Amenities
The Scarborough Civic Centre Library in Scarborough offers a wide range of features and amenities that make it a standout among Toronto’s best libraries. Designed to provide a modern and welcoming space, the library combines innovative design with natural elements, featuring green roofs, panoramic windows, and a spruce interior that blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
The library boasts a diverse collection of over 40,000 materials, including books, audiobooks, and DVDs in multiple languages such as English, Chinese, Gujarati, and Tamil. Its Digital Innovation Hub offers access to advanced tools like 3D printing, design workstations, and audio/video editing software, catering to creative and technological pursuits.
For families, the KidsStop Early Literacy Centre provides an interactive environment where children and caregivers can explore early learning through play. Visitors can also enjoy the outdoor reading garden and green roof for a relaxing experience.
Additional amenities include free Wi-Fi, public computers, meeting rooms, and convenient print, copy, and scan services. These offerings establish the Scarborough Civic Centre Library as not only one of the best libraries in Scarborough but also a premier hub for learning and community engagement.
Programs and Events
The Scarborough Civic Centre Library in Scarborough offers a variety of programs and events designed to engage visitors of all ages, making it one of Toronto’s best libraries for community involvement and enrichment.
For young children, activities like storytime and baby time provide fun and educational experiences that encourage early literacy and bonding with caregivers. Teens can enjoy dedicated programs and social activities tailored to their interests. Adults benefit from workshops and sessions covering topics such as creative skills, technology, and wellness.
The library also hosts special events throughout the year, including movie screenings, cultural performances, and seasonal celebrations. These events foster a sense of community and bring diverse cultural experiences to Scarborough.
Regularly scheduled community activities, like knitting groups, emergency preparedness sessions, and book clubs, ensure there is always something for everyone. These offerings highlight why the Scarborough Civic Centre Library is considered one of the best libraries in Scarborough and a valuable part of the Toronto Public Library system.
Why It’s Unique
The Scarborough Civic Centre Library in Scarborough stands out among Toronto’s best libraries for its unique integration of architectural innovation and community-focused design. Its panoramic windows, green roofs, and thoughtfully designed courtyard create a seamless connection between the library’s interior and the surrounding natural environment, offering a tranquil yet modern space for visitors.
The library’s open-concept layout fosters a sense of collaboration and creativity, making it a welcoming “public living room” for the Scarborough community. Its flexibility is another defining feature, with moveable furniture, a modular layout, and adaptive technology that ensures the library evolves to meet the changing needs of its visitors.
Adding to its uniqueness is the library’s cultural significance. As part of the Toronto Public Library system, it celebrates Scarborough’s rich diversity and history through inclusive programming, multilingual resources, and a design that reflects the area’s identity. These qualities solidify its position as one of the best libraries in Scarborough and a vital community hub.
Services for the Community
The Scarborough Civic Centre Library in Scarborough provides a wide range of services tailored to meet the needs of its diverse community, further solidifying its status as one of Toronto’s best libraries.
Visitors can take advantage of borrowing services, which include laptops, tablets, audiobooks, and a collection of multilingual resources in languages like Chinese, Tamil, and Gujarati. These offerings ensure that the library remains accessible to people of all linguistic and cultural backgrounds.
The library also provides educational services, such as English language learning programs for newcomers and proctoring services for individuals taking exams. These resources make it a vital educational hub for the community.
For those requiring additional support, the library offers specialized services like home delivery for accessibility, large-print materials for those with visual impairments, and assistive technology, including magnifiers and trackball mice.
These thoughtful services demonstrate why the Scarborough Civic Centre Library continues to be one of the best libraries in Scarborough and a cornerstone of community support within the Toronto Public Library system.
Location and Accessibility
The Scarborough Civic Centre Library in Scarborough is conveniently located at 156 Borough Drive, Scarborough, Toronto, ON M1P 4N7. Situated adjacent to the Scarborough Civic Centre, it is easily accessible by public transit and close to major landmarks like Scarborough Town Centre and Albert Campbell Square.
Public transit options make it simple to visit this library, one of the best libraries in Toronto. The Scarborough Centre TTC station is within walking distance, and nearby bus routes, including Brimley Road and McCowan Road buses, stop close by.
The library is fully equipped with wheelchair accessibility, ensuring an inclusive space for all visitors. Parking is also convenient, with metered street parking available along Borough Drive and access to the Civic Centre lot for special events.
These features make the Scarborough Civic Centre Library not only a welcoming space for the community but also one of the best libraries in Scarborough in terms of accessibility and convenience.
How to Visit
The Scarborough Civic Centre Library in Scarborough is easily accessible and open throughout the week to welcome visitors. Below is all the essential information to help you plan your visit to one of Toronto’s best libraries.
Hours of Operation
Library Services:
- Monday to Thursday: 9:00 AM – 8:30 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM
Adjacent Scarborough Civic Centre:
- Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Directions
The library is located at 156 Borough Drive, Scarborough, Toronto, ON M1P 4N7, near Scarborough Town Centre. Public transit options include:
- Subway: Take Line 2 (Bloor-Danforth) to Kennedy, then transfer to Line 3 (Scarborough) and exit at Scarborough Centre Station.
- Buses: Brimley Road and McCowan Road routes stop nearby.
For those driving, metered parking is available along Borough Drive. Additional parking in the Civic Centre lot is accessible during special events after 5:00 PM on weekdays and all day on weekends.
Contact Information
For general inquiries, reach out to the library directly at 416-396-3599. For venue rental information, contact 416-393-7148 or email [email protected]. You can visit the official website for more information.
Whether you’re visiting to explore its features or attend an event, the Scarborough Civic Centre Library ensures a seamless experience, making it a must-visit among the best libraries in Scarborough.
Socials
Rental and Event Hosting
The Scarborough Civic Centre Library in Scarborough offers an exceptional venue for hosting special events, making it one of the best libraries in Toronto for more than just reading and learning.
Venue Details
The library features a spacious event space with a capacity of 350 people, perfect for weddings, conferences, or community gatherings. The venue’s outdoor terrace adds an elegant touch for guests to enjoy the surrounding views. The interior is highly versatile, with customizable spaces to suit the unique needs of different events.
Rental Rates and Availability
The library is available for rental on weekend evenings at a rate of $3,800. This competitive pricing, combined with its modern facilities, makes it a popular choice for hosting memorable occasions.
For more information on availability and bookings, contact 416-393-7148 or email [email protected]. With its stunning design and prime location, the library is a standout among Toronto’s best libraries for event hosting.
FAQs
- What public transit options are available to reach the library?
The library is accessible via Scarborough Centre TTC Station and nearby bus routes along Brimley Road and McCowan Road. - Is parking available at the library?
Metered parking is available along Borough Drive, with additional parking at the Civic Centre lot during special events. - What amenities does the Scarborough Civic Centre Library provide?
The library features free Wi-Fi, public computers, a Digital Innovation Hub, meeting rooms, and an outdoor reading garden. - Can I host an event at the library?
Yes, the library offers rental spaces for special events with a capacity of 350 and an outdoor terrace. - What is the rental cost for the event space at the library?
The rental cost for weekend evenings is $3,800.