Library Unveils Modernized Cedarbrae Branch

Community welcomed back to their "indispensable" resource

TORONTO, Nov. 16 /CNW/ - Toronto Public Library is thrilled to welcome the Scarborough community back to its much loved Cedarbrae Branch on Monday December 6, 2010 at 4:00 p.m. The beautifully renovated library has been redesigned to create an accessible, welcoming environment with improved customer service and more access to technology and collections.

"As one of the busiest district libraries we know this branch is an indispensable resource for the Scarborough community and expect they will really enjoy and benefit from all the new modern features," said City Librarian Jane Pyper. 

In 2010, Toronto Public Library also reopened the newly renovated Thorncliffe branch (Feb 4) and Riverdale branch (September 28).  Another major renovation project at Northern District Branch is expected to be completed early in 2011. Renovated libraries typically see a significant increase in usage - on average, 70 to 80% -- after re-opening to the community.

Designed by Makrimichalos Cugini Architects, the renovated Cedarbrae branch features many exciting enhancements:

• More accessible community space:  new convenient layout, with barrier-free access to all areas of the building. More meeting room space available for the community as well as public art display space.
• Improved customer service: Self-service technologies including express check-out, and the first automated express check-in system.  Using the latest in automated and self-serve technologies helps the library provide more efficient and personalized customer service.
• More access to technology for research, learning, working and recreation: 62 public access computers (a 22% increase), free Wi-Fi, CD listening stations and a collaborative learning studio.  
• Welcoming for everyone: An urban living room; reading lounges; an interactive early learning centre, KidsStop; a vibrant Teen Zone with large screen TV; and an outdoor reading garden.
• Sustainable: New energy efficient systems with maximized use of sunlight; expanded landscaping and additional trees.
• Relevant: Over 30,000 new books, CDs, magazines and DVDs.
• Poetry is Public is Poetry Installation: A second Library poetry display has been installed near the main entrance. Part of the new Poet Laureate's initiative to make poetry more publicly accessible, the first installation appeared at the Toronto Reference Library earlier this year. This is a collaborative endeavour with Toronto Public Library, Toronto Public Library Foundation and the City of Toronto's cultural and transportation services.

Media are invited for pre opening tours on Friday, Dec. 3, 2010 from 10 a.m. - 12 noon. Please contact Edward Karek 416-397-5925 to book a time.   

Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 17.5 million people visit our 99 branches and borrow more than 31 million items. To learn more about Toronto Public Library, visit our website at torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.

For further information:

Media Contact:
Edward Karek, Communications Officer, 416-397-5925
[email protected]