Service Plans, Strategies, Frameworks & Reports
These reports and documents guide library planning, outline improvements and changes to different service areas
and identify the possibilities that result from an investment in library infrastructure and services.
Reports are listed in alphabetical order by title and include the date they were created or last updated.
Digital Strategy (2020)
TPL’s Digital Strategy is our path to delivering exceptional digital value and experiences by ensuring our customers and staff have the right combination of technologies and supports enabled by a modern, connected and sustainable data and technology environment that is transformation-ready. It defines a shared vision, course of action and required investments to enable the priorities set out in our 2020-2024 Strategic Plan and the Service Delivery Model.
Download
the Digital Strategy (PDF)
Facilities Master Plan (2019)
This plan provides a framework for capital investment in the library’s facilities infrastructure. It guides the
timing and location for renovations and rebuilding projects. The plan is informed by: population and community
growth studies, property condition assessments, trends in building automation technology, and requirements to
provide 21st century library service throughout the library system.
Download
the Facilities Master Plan (PDF)
Innovation Strategy (2019)
This supports Toronto Public Library’s vision for a culture of experimentation with an open, collaborative and
engaged workforce. It encourages all staff to experiment and create innovative programs and services that create
excellent customer experiences and enriched staff experiences.
Download
the Innovation Strategy (PDF)
Middle Childhood Framework (2014)
This framework represents a new direction to services for school-aged children six to 12 and their families.
Building on the success of the Ready for Reading programs and services for the early years, the Middle Childhood
Framework provides a blueprint for supporting the healthy growth and development of school-aged children as they
transition into independent and self-reliant learners.
Download
the Middle Childhood Framework (PDF)
Service Delivery Model (Last Updated 2023)
TPL’s Service Delivery Model outlines the types of services we offer (our service pillars) and how those services are provided (our service tiers). It establishes our
service levels and describes how we plan and deliver library services and
infrastructure. The Service Delivery Model is both practical and aspirational, outlining
a systematic approach to branch and service planning that envisions what’s possible
with sustained investments in library infrastructure and service delivery.
Download the Service Delivery Model (PDF)
Social Impact Study (2024)
Toronto Public Library partnered with innovative Danish firm Seismonaut to take a unique approach that is the first of its kind in North America to measure the value of the library and its services using their Experience Impact Compass. The results prove how vital the Toronto Public Library is to the city, helping Torontonians to grow and thrive, and demonstrate the need to continue to invest in library services at a time when social cohesion is more important than ever.
Learn more about the social impact study and download the report
So Much More: The Economic Impact of the Toronto Public Library on the City of Toronto (2013)
This report showcases the results from a study done by the Martin Prosperity Institute, which demonstrate that
Toronto Public Library delivers a strong return on investment through the delivery of library services.
Download
So Much More: The Economic Impact of the Toronto Public Library on the City of Toronto (PDF)
Strategies for Indigenous Initiatives (2017)
This report outlines TPL’s response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s (TRC) 94 Calls to Action, released June 2015. These strategies inform library service development and present a framework for ongoing consultation with Indigenous communities and Indigenous service providers in Toronto.
Download TPL Strategies for Indigenous Initiatives (PDF)
Technology Access in Public Libraries: Outcomes and Impacts for Ontario Communities (2018)
Toronto Public Library engaged Nordicity to conduct the first Ontario study to demonstrate the role of libraries in
advancing digital inclusion and digital literacy in communities across Ontario. This project explores the role of
libraries as critical community hubs promoting access to technology for residents of Ontario.
Youth Services Strategy (2018)
This document provides a vision that supports personal development, equitable access and learning in youth. It
strengthens the Library’s position as a welcoming, inclusive, resource-rich environment in which youth can build
positive futures for themselves and their communities. The strategy provides staff with support and guidance to help
youth transition to adulthood. It also helps articulate the importance of the work, both the challenges and positive
outcomes.
Download the Youth Services Strategy (PDF)