In July 2025, I decided to make it a goal to visit all the branches of the Toronto Public Library. TPL’s network (at least at that time) had a network of 100 branches, including 81 neighbourhood libraries, 17 district libraries, two research and reference libraries.
I’m not setting a time limit because I want to enjoy the process, not have it turn into a speed run. Whenever possible, I want to do some work on my books for young people in each location. I’ve spent considerable time in the Toronto Reference Library when writing and sketching I Want To Read ALL The Books, for example!
My kidlit friend Ellie Arscott gifted me a Toronto Library Passport, so since then I've also started asking TPL branches to stamp my passport...as well as encouraging them to add a doodle.
Did you want to get your own Toronto Library Passport? Check out Spacing. So far, every branch I've visited is familiar with this passport and the librarian(s) I've asked to stamp it do so with enthusiasm.
An auxiliary mission, for when I’m travelling: I want to visit ALL the libraries. I confess this is a bit of a cheat, since I’ve always sought out libraries. Thanks to my husband Jeff for suggesting I add this side quest. He pointed out that it was only appropriate, since I’ve always wanted to read ALL the books.
When I post about either goal on social media, I’ll be using the hashtags #100Branches (for the Toronto Public Library) and #AllTheLibraries.
I’m still trying to decide how best to record which libraries and library branches I visit, and am currently experimenting with MapHub. Gradually adding branch locations, but still need to figure out how to differentiate between libraries I have already visited and libraries I want to visit.
For now, here’s a screenshot I took of the Toronto Public Library Hours & Locations map.