‘When people need them most’: Every Toronto library now open Sundays as part of citywide access push

Toronto Public Library Long Branch location (CTV News file photo).

Toronto Public Library (TPL) will open all 100 of its branches on Sundays starting Oct. 19, marking the first time every neighbourhood in the city will have weekend access at their local branch.

The expansion, which begins this Sunday, will see library branches open from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. across the city. Officials say that marks a total of 33 branches open for the first time while 67 are expanding their hours.

The entire initiative comes as part of TPL’s broader Open Hours Plan, which aims to provide seven-day service across all branches year-round by summer 2026. According to officials, the change is also marks a step forward to what’s been an increased demand from the community.

How much demand is the city seeing?

When the library increased hours in 2024, officials say participating branches recorded a 44 per cent jump in visits compared to the same period the year before. Library usage citywide has also climbed, with 81 per cent of residents accessing TPL services.

Mayor Olivia Chow said the expansion helps ensure public spaces remain accessible and welcoming.

“Every Toronto resident deserves access to free, welcoming public spaces where they belong,” Chow said in a statement. “By opening all 100 branches on Sundays and moving toward full seven-day service in 2026, we’re ensuring our libraries are available when people need them most.”

A removal of barriers, city staff weigh in

Deputy Mayor Amber Morley said the extended hours remove barriers for families and students, trying to balance multiple schedules.

“Sunday library extended hours removes barriers for families juggling work schedules, students seeking quiet study spaces and gives everyone more access to a safe, welcoming space,” Morley said. “When we invest in libraries, we invest in the future of every Toronto resident.”

Deputy Mayor Paul Ainslie, who chairs the Federation of Ontario Public Libraries and sits on the TPL Board, also shared his thoughts on the increased services for the city.

“I am very thrilled to see all Toronto Public Library branches, including those in Ward 24, now will be open on Sunday year-around,” Ainslie said. “Expanded services can make a real difference for families, students, seniors, and shift workers. I want to thank Mayor Olivia Chow for her advocacy in making this city-wide initiative possible.”

Ainslie’s office notes that the expansion supports several citywide priorities, including the Toronto Poverty Reduction Strategy, the Toronto Youth Equity Strategy, and SafeTO.

For a full list of branch hours and programs, residents are asked to check library’s website at tpl.ca/programs.