I want to assure you that I do not support the closure of any of Toronto’s public library branches and I am unaware of any such plans at this time. In fact, two new branches are scheduled to open in 2014. The Toronto Public Library Board recently voted against reducing the hours at 56 branches across the city. I support this vote.

Toronto has one of the greatest library systems in the world with more branches than New York City. On the other hand, I am sure you are aware that Ward 10 has been underserviced by the TPL and its predecessors. We have only one small, single floor library (Centennial). Moreover, when I reviewed the capital allocations for the next 10 years, with the exception of $50,000 for repairs, Ward 10 will receive nothing.

This has to change. Since I arrived in office, I have been lobbying hard for an expansion to the Centennial Library. The plan might include extending the main floor, adding a second floor and then linking the building to the nearby Herbet H. Carnegie Centennial Centre. I will keep you informed on this exciting initiative.