In 2009 usage of our library services was up across the board. From circulation to visits, from information requests to in-branch computer usage, Torontonians made use of their free, quality library services in record numbers. In fact, with more than 17.5 million visits to our branches and more than 31 million items borrowed, 2009 was truly our busiest and best year ever.
Worldwide, the Toronto Public Library was breaking records as well, as the largest and busiest urban public library system in the world*.
*Toronto Public Library has higher circulation per capital (11.9) than any other international or North American library system serving a population base over 2 million.
The re-opening of three new branches - Jane/Sheppard, Kennedy/Eglinton and Bloor/Gladstone - boosted numbers in 2009 as the public visited its renovated libraries in droves. And increasing demand for our excellent collections, librarian expertise, and in-branch computers was also evident in our 2009 statistics.
| LIBRARY USE | 2009 | 2008 |
|---|---|---|
| Circulation | 31,271,072 | 29,800,619 |
| In-library use | 7,959,072 | 7,472,429 |
| Information requests | 7,730,028 | 6,685,575 |
| Visits | 17,554,470 | 16,175,595 |
| Individuals using public workstations | 6,130,523 | 5,499,603 |
Toronto Public Library reached record numbers in 2009 for virtual visits to our website, databases, catalogue and Dial-A-Story. The increased activity shows that more and more people are relying on their public library for the resources and help they need to succeed.
| WEB SERVICES | 2009 | 2008 |
|---|---|---|
| Virtual visits* | 23,393,026 | 20,607,614 |
| Database queries/searches | 17,673,973 | 20,016,471 |
| Virtual information requests | 33,413 | 27,888 |
* Includes website, databases, catalogue, Dial-A-Story.
In 2009, Toronto Public Library continued innovative programming to reflect the community's needs and interests. The Toronto Reference Library was buzzing with activity, thanks in part to the opening of The Bram & Bluma Appel Salon last fall. In 2009, the likes of Tim Flannery, Measha Brueggergosman, Peter Mansbridge, Rex Murphy and Douglas Coupland have attracted audiences totaling 3,600 for engaging, thought-provoking discussions.
| PROGRAM ATTENDANCE | 2009 | 2008 |
|---|---|---|
| Preschool | 202,084 | 196,764 |
| Children | 226,869 | 220,381 |
| Teen | 73,969 | 59,555 |
| Adult | 70,337 | 51,066 |
| Older Adult | 11,617 | 9,141 |