What makes it 84% Couple-Friendly: Couples can tour TD Gallery, photograph the soaring atrium, share Balzac’s coffee, and attend author evenings, but the constant library hush restricts casual chatting, slightly reducing overall appeal.
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Allows time to browse exhibits, rare collections and relax with coffee
Browse TD Gallery exhibits:
Explore rotating small shows on the main floor featuring vintage postcards, art and books.
Tip: Check the gallery schedule online to catch the current exhibit.
Tour special collections:
Visit the Marilyn & Charles Baillie Special Collections Centre on Level 5.
Tip: Ask staff for directions to see the Arthur Conan Doyle room and Canadiana archives.
Relax in the central atrium:
Sit under the skylight in the curved atrium, perfect for people-watching and photos.
Tip: Aim for mid-morning light for the best natural illumination.
Attend a reading or talk:
Join free author readings, poetry sessions or lectures in the Bram & Bluma Appel Salon.
Tip: Pick up event tickets in advance at the information desk to secure seats.
Grab coffee at Balzac’s:
Enjoy locally roasted coffee and pastries in the lobby café.
Tip: Order early to beat the line, then take coffee upstairs to the atrium.

Margaret Wong
The Toronto Public Library is one of the world’s biggest and busiest public library systems, with nearly 45 million annual visits to our branches and online. The library is the largest public reference library in Canada with an extensive collection of books, manuscripts, microfilm, and other items. Most items in its collection are designated for reference-use only; the public is unable to borrow t...
Truong Le
I visited this library in afternoon and I saw a-lot younger was reading here.That’s so quite,beautifuk place and good atmosphere . I like visiting library in my travel trip and so happy if I found a lot younger still read books. Toronto Reference Library with modern architecture,a lot kinds of book and furthermore students come here research and can read any book con case- no need ask or registere...
Leonard
Almost like a stadium or orchestral hall library. The colors and the capsule shakes elevators give it like a premium or grand feel haha. You have 5 floors with the top being the quiet area but really most of the library is quiet except that one crazy person that yells sometimes. Tables in the center of the main floor and different seating styles. Plenty of seating really though it still can get pa...
Adonis A.
Just popped into the Toronto Reference Library to relax for a bit… and ended up discovering it’s way more than a library! Workshops, computer areas, cozy corners, and even a coffee shop “Balzac’s Coffee Roasters”. Perfect spot to chill, work, or just wander around. ☕📚🔋 Amazing place to chill, study, or work.
Fabio Salx
A magnificent library with pleasant architecture and an extraordinary highlight: the people who work there, kind and always helpful. A special mention goes to the top floor, where the room dedicated to Conan Doyle is located. The staff on that floor were professional, friendly, and enthusiastic. It truly deserves a visit.
Check the library website for seasonal TD Gallery shows. Winter visits feel bright under the skylight when it’s darker outside.
Explore These Activities
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Admission | CAD 0 |
| Two coffees at Balzac’s | CAD 7 |
| Two pastries at Balzac’s | CAD 6 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 13 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Address: 789 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M4W 2G8, Canada
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