Toronto readers are getting more time at their local branch. The city is expanding library hours to seven days a week and extending evening service, widening access for people who work or study during the day.
Supporters say libraries have become far more than book-lending sites. Branches now serve as study space, internet access points, newcomer supports and cooling and warming centres during extreme weather in Toronto neighbourhoods.
The longer schedule is expected to help students preparing for exams, parents looking for weekend programming and residents who rely on public computers and printing. Evening hours also make programs easier to attend after work.
City officials say the rollout will be watched closely for uptake by branch. If demand follows the pattern seen at pilot locations, seven-day service could become the new baseline expectation for Toronto's library system.
