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| - As this is my first non-restaurant review on yelp.ca, I will attempt to take a less critical, and more observational tone in my musings about the High Park Library.
Libraries are wonderful places. Free knowledge for all who seek it. Entertainment for young and old, and a sense of community surround these places. They're open late, in some cases so students can study, and those of us too busy to go in the day can access books.
I have visited many libraries mostly in Ontario. Starting in early-childhood and public school, high school, university, and now adulthood. I've visited the University of Ottawa & Carleton Libraries, as well as University of Waterloo, Wilfred Laurier and McMaster as well as the University of Buffalo. I've even worked in libraries in the United Kingdom on a research project based in London and Oxford. The library I spent most time at was called the Bodleian at the University of Oxford University. The original building was constructed in 1602, and was one of the earliest major libraries built in Europe. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bodleian_library
I've never actually counted, but I may have been to 50 or more libraries so far in my life.
I also enjoy reading as a hobby, and although I buy books far more than I should, the library is a sacred domain which I find myself returning to wherever and whenever I happen to be living.
Which brings us to my visit this evening to the High Park Library. It is conveniently located on Roncesvalles Avenue; a ten minute walk south from the subway, and accessible by the streetcar. I've walked by it dozens of times but never entered before tonight.
The main floor is small and cramped where the lobby and checkout areas are located. There are several side rooms, one of which contained the childrens' section, and the other a staff area. As well, the washrooms are located near the entrance.
The upstairs is much larger and contains the bulk of the library's contents. The most special feature of this particular location was the large section of Polish books, magazines, and videos. Situated in the heart of the Toronto Polish community, it contains perhaps the largest collection of Polish books, magazines and videos in a public library anywhere in Canada. Some or all of these books may have been donated by members of the community, which is well known for it's Polish shops and restaurants.
The High Park Library has a true community feeling to it. While it is neither grand, nor particularly stylish it's true value is the location at the heart of the Roncesvalles village, and how it's contents reflects the community surrounding.
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