artists in the library

Grants for organizations, collectives and individuals to support free community-engaged arts programming at one of the Toronto Public 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 library 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 branches of the Toronto Public Library. This program encourages applications from TAC’s equity priority groups and artists working in their local communities. 

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 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, participatory programs, arts education and mentorship programs, 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. All projects must be delivered on site at the branch and within branch operating hours.

Project location:

There is no list of eligible branches in 2026. You can indicate interest in working at any branch outside of downtown core or simply select a geographic area or neighbourhood where you prefer to work, and the branch will be assigned to the funded projects by TPL staff, based on suitability and availability. Areas include: Etobicoke York, North York, Toronto & East York, Scarborough. For Toronto & East York, the downtown locations are not eligible: for the purpose of this grant program ‘downtown’ refers to the area south of St. Clair, east of Jane and west of Don Valley; if you have a question about specific location, please contact program manager. 

You can only propose programming for one branch. 

Note: if you included a specific preferred branch, a different branch might be assigned. 

WHEN CAN THE PROJECT HAPPEN?

Programming in the branches must take place between September and December 2027.