artists in the library

Grants for organizations, collectives and individuals to support free community-engaged arts programming in selected library branches.

WHAT DOES THIS PROGRAM SUPPORT?

Created in 2014 as a partnership between Toronto Arts Council and Toronto Public Library, Artists in the Library program provides paid opportunities and space for Toronto artists while increasing access to the arts in Etobicoke, York, North York, East York and Scarborough through programming in the local branches. Funding for this program is provided by the City of Toronto.

Artists in the Library program provides funding to professional artists, arts organizations and collectives working in any artistic discipline to create and deliver free community-engaged arts programming at one of the listed branches of the Toronto Public Library. This program encourages applications from TAC’s equity priority groupsand artists local to the branches.

Grant recipients will have an opportunity to explore their art practice in a community setting; access space and facilities for arts programming and presentation; engage with the branch and its surrounding community in a meaningful way; work closely and be supported by the branch team; navigate a multi-stakeholder environment and create and deliver community-engaged arts programming from start to finish.

Community engagement is a requirement in this program, but its format may vary. Activities may include exhibitions, installations, performances, concerts, screenings, readings, filmmaking, storytelling, workshops, artist talks, open studios, participatory programs, arts education and mentorship programs, presentations of work in progress, and other arts programming. Permanent exhibitions and installations are not eligible. All funded projects will be produced by the grant recipient and hosted and supported by the assigned library branch.

WHEN CAN THE PROJECT HAPPEN?

All projects must be completed in the 2026 calendar year and, in exceptional circumstances, no later than within two years of the date on the Notification Letter.