All sorts of retail stores are reopening but what about our beloved library? If you’re missing the days of borrowing books from the library, then today is going to be a good day for you. It’s just been announced that the Toronto Public Library is rolling out curbside pick-up and drop-off.
Starting Monday, May 25, books that are on-loan can be dropped off at select boxes at Toronto Public Library locations across the city and Drop-off at all remaining branches will open on June 1.
“We are all excited about this first step in the reinstatement of our services, with the introduction of curbside drop-off and pick-up of materials,” city librarian Vickery Bowles said. “It’s been so heartwarming to see the public excitement about this news. We know how many Torontonians rely on their library to stay connected, informed and engaged.”
In regard to checking out items from the library, CP24 reports that curbside pickup is slated to start in June.
Have a book on hold or on loan? Don’t worry about any late fees as the library says you won’t be charged any fines as due dates for all checked-out items will be extended until after branches reopen.
However if you don’t have a library card, you won’t be able to get one until branches officially open. With that being said, TPL has blessed us with instant access to OverDrive, the largest collection of e-books and audiobooks, with the city’s new Instant Digital Card. This means you don’t have to spend a cent to read or listen to those books you’ve been meaning to get around to.
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With all of the free workouts, fun Instagram accounts, and workshops you can take online, there are so many ways to stay entertained! But if you want to get back down to basics and cuddle up with a good book, the Toronto Public Library has got you covered.
In the past, you’d have to go to your nearest Toronto Public Library (TPL) to get access to its services, but they’ve recently made things easier for those living in the city.
You can now get instant access to the TPL online.
With all library locations closed, TPL is offering access to OverDrive, the largest collection of e-books and audiobooks, with the city’s new Instant Digital Card. This means you don’t have to spend a cent to read or listen to those books you’ve been meaning to get around to.
Anyone aged 13 or older with a Toronto cellphone can get the Instant Digital Card.
New customers can enjoy this access until September 1, 2020. All you need to get started is the campaign code, “TPL2020”; a cellphone with the area codes 416, 647, or 347 that can receive text messages; a computer with an internet connection, or a smartphone or tablet with one of OverDrive’s e-reading apps, Libby or OverDrive.
You can get instructions on how to register on the TPL’s website.
Once you’re all set up, you’ll get access to thousands of e-books and audiobooks; collections for adults, kids, and teens; small collections in French, Chinese, Russian, Spanish, and Portuguese; and nearly 3,000 streaming videos.
After September 2020, those who signed up for the Instant Digital Card will be invited to register for a free, full-service permanent library card, so you can keep on saving on books, TPL digital services, and more. Happy reading!
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If you love movie streaming services like Netflix, CraveTV and Amazon prime, you may be happy to hear that there is a new video streaming service in town, and it’s completely free. All you need to get started is a library card.
The Toronto Public Library has just launched a new platform called Kanopy, which allows users to stream thousands of feature films, documentaries, international films and training videos for free. TPL has just added over 30,000 new videos to their collection.
Here’s how it works:
- You can access Kanopy films with your smartphone, tablet, PC or Smart TV
- Kanopy is compatible with Roku, Android, iOS and Apple TV
- You have three days to watch each film
- You can access up to eight films a month
- All films are fully accessible, with captions and transcripts, and are compatible with screen reader software such as JAWS
To get more information, check out TPL’s Getting Started Guide
You’d think a bunch of free movies from the library might be dated and out of touch, but according to the TPL the selection of films is “outstanding” and includes titles from award-winning directors, highly-acclaimed documentaries and top content from public broadcasters like PBS.
This is another solid service from Toronto Public Library as one of our favourite best-kept secrets is the fact that you can also download any E-book or audiobook you want for your listening pleasure for free through the OverDrive App.
We love our wonderful city, but Toronto living can get pretty expensive. You get a lot, but you pay a lot, too. Luckily, this January, you don’t have to spend a penny to enjoy some amazing activities around the city. We’ve rounded up the very best free events for you to go to with your family, best friends, or significant other:
1. Get Your Skate on at The New Bentway Skate Trail
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This much-anticipated skating trail under the Gardner Expressway is finally open to the public. Rentals may cost you an extra $10.00, but the skating is completely free. Don’t miss out on BEATS AND BENTS Friday Night Skate Parties, featuring one of the hottest DJ’s spinning tunes all night long.
2. Take a Stroll Through Allen Gardens
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Pretend you’re in a tropical rainforest in this oasis in the middle of the city. Take a warm walk through the different sections of flora and explore six greenhouses, featuring the historic, glass-domed Palm House. It’s also the perfect backdrop for bloggers and photography enthusiasts.
3. Check Out Toronto Light Fest and See Unique Installations
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Take a romantic evening stroll through the Distillery to check it all out. From January 19th until March 4th, The Toronto Light Festival will be shining brightly, with works from local and international artists. Expect a lunar eclipse, a new micro-distillery, a fire-breathing dragon, a pyramid, and so much more.
4. Get Cultured at the AGO
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Wednesday nights at the AGO are completely free! Spend your evening at one of the largest and most distinguished art museums in North America. Get inspired by the incredible art displays and new and changing exhibits.
5. Catch a Concert With The Canadian Opera Company
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Listen to the incredible sounds, presented by the Canadian Opera Company, at the Free Concert Series. Discover established and emerging artists while enjoying a live performance in the Richard Bradshaw Amphitheatre.
6. Check out the Toronto Design Offsite Festival (TO DO)
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Enjoy 100 free design events, exhibitions and window installations across Toronto. The festival is all about bringing people together to celebrate contemporary culture. If you love design and art, this is definitely something you should check out.
7. Winter at Ontario Place
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A festival dedicated to all winter activities is taking over Ontario Place this season with free admission. Make sure you see the Winter Light Exhibition, with 12 illuminated exhibits by local artists. Highlights also include ice skating, a bonfire, watching movies at the Cinesphere in IMAX®, hiking the Trillium Park and William G. Davis Trail and viewing the Illuminated Island.
8. Admire The Public Art Installations With Ice Breakers
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Starting on January 19th, stunning works of art will be displayed around the city. Discover and explore the five different art installations located around Queens Quay West this winter.
9. Learn More with Digital Innovation Hubs
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If you’re looking to expand your mind, register for free workshops with the Toronto Public Library. They’re offering incredible classes like 3D printing, Photoshop, Web design and more!
10. The Power Plant: Winter 2018 Opening Party
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To kick off the 2018 winter exhibition season, there will be a FREE party on January 26th! Be amongst the first to experience exhibitions by Kader Attia and Emeka Ogboh, and view the progression of Michael Landy‘s continually evolving Fleck Clerestory Commission Project. Free admission to the gallery all year round.
Featured image: Instagram/@dewucme
Are you going to check out any of these free events this month?
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