Have you noticed the wave of rebirth Toronto has experienced in the last 20 years? It seems city bodies are remodeling and annexing outdated architecture and revamping communal spaces with more purpose and frequency than ever before. ‘Old’ is being infused with ‘new’, and classic is being blended with contemporary. For example, have you seen the sparkling renovation of the Bloor/Gladstone branch of the Toronto Public Library? If you haven’t been lately, you must!

Allow me a moment to provide context for my library experiences: 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 us kids to a massive building 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 time, ‘the library’ as an institution has become less popular. Perhaps it was in part due to the rise of video games, social media, and all the other distractions that pull children away from reading, and also partly due to the rise of e-readers like the Kindle. Whatever the case, libraries across the city have responded with an escalation on their offerings, advertising things that continue to entice families to spend time together at their local library: classes, workshops, computer/internet access, galleries, audiobooks, and more! As a result, Toronto branches continue to thrive.

Happily, I’ve rediscovered libraries too, and all the joy – and nostalgic feels – they bring.

*Image courtesy of Ottawa Magazine

I originally headed over to the renovated Bloor/Gladstone Library to see exactly what a $119 Million face-lift looked like. I was pleasantly surprised at how successfully the transformation integrated the classic, elegant elements from the original building with contemporary additions and finishes. 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!

I recommend this delightful article that appeared in Now Toronto magazine – the tongue-in-cheek commentary is spot on.

*Image courtesy of junctiontriangle.ca

Admiring the dichotomy of old and new, it occurred to me how the architectural renovation paralleled the evolution of the library experience itself; now the city is using new technology, modern aesthetics, and revised programs to revitalize and repackage what’s been called an outdated establishment. And it seems to be a hit!

So, while a library visit today bares little resemblance to chasing down the Bookmobile of my youth, the Bloor/Gladstone branch demonstrates that it’s possible to revise and adapt without losing the bricks and mortar of what has always been a valued experience.

Check out this archive photo courtesy of the Department Of Public Memory. Neat eh?

The next time you balk when someone says they’re “off to the library”, maybe tag along and see how these revamped shared spaces are still bringing communities together.

*Image courtesy of skyscrapercity.com

Love the idea of being steps away from local, organic farmers market? Family-friendly parks? Close to transit, bike paths and walkways? How about a 15 minute walk from the Bloor/Gladstone Library?

We call it: A Fantastic Flex House In Dovercourt Village

We’re delighted to introduce you to this charming Flex House nestled on a 21 x 118 foot lot with laneway access to a quaint 2-car garage (plus it has approval for an as-of-right laneway dwelling!) Constructed in 1910 with a later 2-storey extension built on the rear of this dwelling, this residence possesses oodles of curb appeal. 

Offering an intelligent flexible space plan, this property can be used in its current iteration as two 2-bedroom suites, or easily converted into a 3+1 bed, 2 bath residence with main floor family room. Need more space? This property has the as-of-right approvals for a 2-storey laneway dwelling of about 1350 square feet! Well-situated, well-proportioned, and welcoming, this residence is an ideal opportunity!

If you’re interested in booking a private viewing, it would be our pleasure!
Contact James Ormston (james@urbaneer.com) or Steven Fudge (steve@urbaneer.com), okay?

Check out our past listing that was also in this neighbourhood: Heaven Sent In Dufferin Grove’s Hepbourne Hall!

Artful and architectural, this two bedroom divine is an intelligent purchase, as it fuses the practicality of its multi-function layout with the intangible benefits unique to loft living! Soaring ceilings, expansive volumes, and the resulting interplay of light? Yes, please!

Here are three other libraries we love in Toronto:

Dive Into Summer Reading At The Beaches Library

Explore An Architectural Landmark: The Toronto Reference Library

Mindful Leisure At The Locke Library In Lawrence Park

Discover The Northern District Library Near Yonge & Eglinton!

More Mindful Leisure At The S. Walter Library In East York

Booksmart Bliss At The Danforth-Coxwell Library

Something For Everyone At The Leaside Library

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May we be of assistance to you, or someone you love?

Thanks for reading!

-The Urbaneer Team

Steven Fudge, Sales Representative
& The Innovative Urbaneer Team
Bosley Real Estate Ltd., Brokerage – (416) 322-8000

– we’re here to earn your trust, then your business –

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