Toronto Public Library - Fairview Library

3 floors of fantaaaaastic books and magazines.nI love the children's area.nAmple seating

I arrived at the lobby around 5:00 PM on Sunday,nmarch 29th to use the washroom after being turned away from other floors. The supervisor a young woman who was working on the third floor immediately raised her voice, telling me the library was closed, and rolled her eyes and blocked me from using the washroom, even though she had seen me there the entire day. I had to insist it was an emergency.nnEarlier, I had politely asked if she could keep an eye on my belongings while I stepped away, which she declined. That was completely fine, but it made the later interaction even more frustrating. It felt unnecessary to be treated that way over simply trying to use the washroom.nnI understand the library closes at 5:00 PM, but it’s unrealistic to expect everyone to clear out immediately. A bit of patience and basic courtesy would go a long way.nnWhat stood out most was the tone. I was spoken to in a dismissive and disrespectful way, and due to my race and age, I felt I was being talked down to. I genuinely doubt the interaction would have been handled the same way with someone else.nnOverall, a very disappointing experience and a lack of basic human decency.

Each floor is quiet enough to focus and a few study spots aren't too hard to find. The space is clean, peaceful and no fights in sight. Security has also improved since my last visit with officers patrolling but not disturbing the peace. Overall a good place to study and do work.

I feel so lucky to be a member of the Toronto Public Library. I had a really special experience with the Fairview Mall branch that I want to share.nnOn March 31, I received an email from the Fairview staff saying that my wallet had been found at the library. I didn’t even realize I had dropped it when I was there with my daughter. I was honestly so surprised and relieved. Someone kind found my wallet and brought it to the front desk, and the staff took the time to contact me right away.nnI am very thankful to the person who found it and to the staff who helped return it to me. It meant a lot, especially because I had all my important cards inside. The process was simple and smooththey just asked me to bring ID to pick it up during opening hours.nnThis experience really shows how caring and responsible the people at this library are. No wonder TPL is such a great place for the community. It’s not just a place to read, but also a safe and welcoming space for families. My daughter loves going there, and now I appreciate it even more.nnThere are so many great resources, and the staff are always kind and helpful. Thank you again to everyone at the Fairview branch and to the kind person who found my wallet. I truly appreciate it.

I went to this location today simply to ask about replacing a library card, but the experience was extremely disappointing. The female staff member, approximately 40–50 years old, with short hair and wearing glasses working at the counter—had a terrible attitude right from the start.nnInstead of being helpful, she stood there with her hands on her hips, speaking to me in a very disrespectful and condescending tone. I have absolutely no idea what I did to offend her, as I was just asking a normal question. Her behavior felt incredibly rude, unwelcoming, and I strongly suspect her hostile attitude was motivated by discrimination.nnCustomer service should at least be respectful, but this interaction was completely unacceptable. I hope management takes this seriously and addresses this behavior.