The Toronto Public Library is adding more centres to support people struggling with homelessness and mental health challenges. The library began providing drop-in crisis and support services in 2023, and these are now available at 12 locations.

The goal is to provide a safe, welcoming place for vulnerable people and connect them to meaningful support. The idea originated in 2023 when library staff recognized that they could not fully assist vulnerable visitors who came in seeking help. To bridge this gap, the Toronto Public Library partnered with the Gerstein Crisis Centre and launched a pilot project offering free drop-in crisis services at select branches. This partnership has since provided essential support to people who might not otherwise have access to these services.

Since its launch, the library’s crisis support program has helped more than 8,000 people through over 1,000 wellness sessions and nearly 13,000 interactions with crisis workers. The program offers activities such as music therapy, exercise groups, suicide prevention workshops, and short-term counselling at seven branches, including the Toronto Reference Library, with the goal of providing support before a crisis happens.

With the most recent expansion in June, the number of people accessing the library’s support continues to grow. With loneliness affecting nearly one in three Torontonians, the library is proving itself to be one of the last free public spaces where people can connect, feel included, and find care in their community. The Toronto Public Library is also considering opening additional locations if the demand for support continues to rise.

Source: Vanessa Tiberio, CBC