The Gladstone Library At Bloor Dufferin

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The Library Gets Modern At Bloor Dufferin

February 18, 2011

I was born in suburban Oakville Ontario to immigrant Brits, and initially lived in a neighbourhood so new it had zero amenities beyond the orchards across the street that would imminently be bulldozed for yet more suburban dreck. The elementary school was completed just as I turned five, but up until its completion the only resources I had to the world of words were our weekly visit to the 'Bookmobile', which was effectively a large truck converted into a mobile library that would park on the street for an allotted time each week.

As I grew older, my parents took we kids to a massive buildings chock-a-block full of books. My parents would set us free to choose a handful of books for the week, and occasionally we would stay for sit-down story-telling sessions in the space dedicated just for children. I have happy memories of those times.

I don't know if it's true or not, but I get the sense that over a period of time the library became unfashionable. Perhaps it was the rise of television, video games, and all the other distractions that pull children away from reading, but I think it was considered 'lame' for awhile. But it doesn't seem that way anymore.

I recently went to the Gladstone Library to see its $119 million dollar reno. The result is an architectural blend of old and new + elegant and contemporary. And with all the new life breathed into the vintage architecture, the staff were smart enough to breathe new life into its operations. There's wi-fi, free computers with games plus CD and DVD rental. Plus they let you snack! The place was packed!

Here's a delightful article from Now Magazine that tells it like it is. Click HERE to read it.

I gotta say...this is one great amenity. And what could be more brilliant to have unlimited free stuff to borrow on a whim only fifty feet away from your new home or investment? Here's my newest listing I call Dufferin Grove Groove that is superb value at $689,000. Check it out!

~ Steven

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