Planning for the new St. Lawrence branch of the Toronto Public Library is set to begin later this year for a public opening in 2027. The relocation and expansion at 125 The Esplanade will be more than six times the size of the current facility.

The new district branch will be about 30,000 square feet and bring enhanced library services to the area, namely: better access for equity-deserving groups, expanded and multi-functional public and community spaces, and new environments that connect communities and offer opportunities for partnerships, civic engagement and resident participation.

“This new library branch will be a remarkable place of learning, exploration and connection for residents and visitors alike,” said Councillor Kristyn Wong-Tam (Toronto Centre). “My staff and I will continue to work with the St. Lawrence Market Precinct Advisory Committee and all the neighbours on this exciting project to ensure the community is served well into the future.”

Branch design, programming and services will be identified through the library’s planning and public consultation processes.

The current St. Lawrence Branch at 171 Front St. E. is 4,833 square feet was previously slated for the First Parliament site down the street, but the province expropriated it for transit-communities and development timelines of at least 15 years. The site change will allow the new branch to be operational in a condensed timeframe of about six years at a cost of $34 million.