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From Flickr: “Mechanics Institute, Church St., n.e. cor. Adelaide St. E.; Interior, Reference Library” by Toronto Public Library Special Collections

Staff at the Toronto Mechanics’ Institute (Church and Adelaide) in 1895. Originally the York Mechanics’ Institute, it opened in the 1830 "for the mutual improvement of its members in useful scientific knowledge… A library of reference and circulation will be formed." Many years later, it became the Toronto Public Library. Read More →

From Flickr: “Mechanics’ Institute, Church St., n.e. cor. Adelaide St. E.; Interior, reference library.” by Toronto Public Library Special Collections

Staff and members of the Toronto Mechanics’ Institute, at Church and Adelaide (Evening Telegram, September 8, 1908). In the 1800s, working men paid an annual subscription to a Mechanics’ Institute to read books, mainly on technical subjects. This one eventually became the Toronto Public Library. We pin it in honour Read More →