Toronto Public Library – Bayview Branch

This library is not a big library, but it is a cozy one. It’s also quite comfortable. There’s very cushy seating right next to a big, open window facing the parking lot too. The only odd thing is that people can stand at the window and watch you read. On a cold day like today, when people walk in and you’re sitting by that window, the draft comes in. That’s my only issue. Service was quick and efficient. I got my library card renewed very easily and without any hassle.

In terms of customer service and design, it’s a very nice library. Located in Bayview Village, there is plenty of parking and shops to go around if you’re bored. What’s the biggest issue?
The layout of the library is just not good for getting any quiet reading or work done. Maybe it’s just me, but I do like libraries to be quiet. Being a very small library, it does it’s best to stock up books and computers, but there are hardly any lounge chairs or seating for individuals. There are only 3 communal tables at the front and a small lounge area with like 4 chairs.
This is a children’s library. Simply put. At the very center and core of this library lies the children’s area with small tables scattered around and books aplenty. It’s a nice area for kids, but being that the library is already as small as it is, there is no possible way to avoid the noise. Screaming children will be heard from every corner of the library you find yourself secluded in. If you have kids, then it’s a completely different story, but don’t expect any quiet here during the day.

Popping by Toronto Public Library Branch whenever I am in the area or window shopping at Bayview Village.
Maybe to go with the style of Bayview Village, this branch is nicely decorated and does not even have the mushy and sweaty smell compare to some of the libraries I been to.
Great place to hop in to park myself for a few hours and work on some of my Unilocal reviews. and then go inside Bayview Village to grab a coffee or a quick bite in between.
BTW, I have not have a Janna S sighting as yet… maybe one day!

How is it that the only FREE service at Bayview Village Mall is also the BEST service?! Yes, it’s true. Surrounded by the high-​end shops and restaurants of Bayview Village Mall, the Bayview library is the hands-​down winner when it comes to customer service.
The Chapters Store at Bayview should take a page out of this customer service book (pun intended). Chapters is rarely busy on weeknights but on the few occasions I’ve made a purchase, I’ve waited in line for at least 5 minutes.
At the library, I’ve never had to stand in line. EVER. As soon as I get close to the check-​out counter, a staff member invariably steps away from whatever they are working on to help me. And they even smile at me! The librarians are friendly to all, designer handbag or no. This place is always full of people and the attitude problem you’ll find at some places in the mall is notably absent here.
Recent renovations here include a self checkout scanner that identifies every individual book in a stack — cool!
Closest major intersection: Bayview Ave. and Sheppard Ave. East. Located at south side of Bayview Village Plaza.
Public Transit
Sheppard subway, get off at Bayview station
Parking
Free parking. Bayview Village Plaza parking lot.
Monday: 10:00 a.m. — 8:30 p.m.
Tuesday: 12:30 p.m. — 8:30 p.m.
Wednesday: 10:00 a.m. — 6:00 p.m.
Thursday: 12:30 p.m. — 8:30 p.m.
Friday: 10:00 a.m. — 6:00 p.m.
Saturday: 9:00 a.m. — 5:00 p.m.
Sunday: Closed