I’ve grown up in libraries all my life. My school libraries, as well as my local public libraries, have all fed my reading wishes and desires. But as I’ve grown up, I’ve started to really understand how important libraries were to my life and how they help so many people every day.
Libraries provided me with free access to knowledge and information. They provided me with a way to expand my imagination and delve into my various interests, free of charge. They may even be responsible for why I chose to study English at university.Â
But providing free access to books is common knowledge when it comes to what a library can do. Along with providing books, libraries provide a reason to read. Book displays curated by librarians to match the season and book clubs or book talks. Anyone who had trouble finding the right book or community to read with now has the opportunity to do so.Â
A prime example for kids is the TD Summer Reading Club in Canada. Libraries across the country participate to encourage kids to start reading and keep the habit, especially during the summer break when they are away from school.Â
Library resources extend to the internet as well. These can include digital e-books, audiobooks, music, and even classes on various topics.Â
These digital resources are quite popular, and their usage continues to grow as technology progresses. The Toronto Public Library (TPL) saw 14 million digital checkouts in 2025, allowing people to borrow e-books, audiobooks, and magazines from the comfort of their homes to read anywhere they wanted.
But public libraries provide so much more for communities than just books. They provide a third space where patrons can go to learn or just hang out.Â
There aren’t many spaces in this day and age for people to go and enjoy themselves away from school, home, or work. A stroll in the park might not be feasible depending on the weather, and other activities may cost money, but the public library is always an open and free space to enjoy.Â
At certain TPL locations, Youth Hubs have been implemented to allow teens to play games, use borrowed laptops, get help with schoolwork, and receive free snacks.Â
I loved going to the Youth Hub when I was in high school. I’d go with my friends, and we’d play Mario Kart, Uno and do our homework. I even once painted a pot for Mother’s Day and got to take home a free petunia to go with it. I also got to meet kids from other schools and chat with the librarians assigned to the room.Â
The library, by providing a safe space, is also really helpful to homeless communities in their areas. Libraries have heating or air conditioning, depending on the season, as well as free internet access and various ways to stay busy, like reading books or newspapers. Librarians may also help patrons find access to different resources, like the nearest food bank or shelter.Â
If you or someone you know still doesn’t have a library card, encourage them to get one! Especially during these times of uncertainty around the world, and the budget cuts and book bans that threaten library function. Usage numbers can really help libraries continue to provide the services they have, which so many people depend on.Â
Libraries help everyone, and with community programming, a quiet space, and access to free resources, libraries are for everyone to enjoy.