Discover Toronto's history as told through its plaques

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Earlscourt Branch, Toronto Public Library 1921

Photos by Alan L Brown - Posted May, 2009

At 1625 Dufferin Street, just south of St. Clair Avenue West, is what used to be called Earlscourt Branch of the Toronto Public Library. Now the Dufferin/St. Clair Branch, this 2008 Heritage Toronto plaque in front has this to say:

Coordinates: 43.676989 -79.442439

Click here for a larger map

Originally named for its local community (annexed by Toronto in 1910), Earlscourt Branch replaced a smaller Toronto Public Library branch opened in 1913 in a nearby rented space. Toronto architect Charles J. Gibson designed this building in a Georgian-influenced style, visible in its strict symmetry, round-arched windows, and entrance portico with columns. "Earlscourt" Branch was further distinguished by its interior murals, painted between 1925 and 1932 by George A. Reid, principal of the Ontario College of Art, and by two of Reid's former students, Lorna Claire and Doris McCarthy. In 1973, the branch was renamed Dufferin/St. Clair to indicate more clearly its location. The murals were painted over in 1964, but through the leadership of local residents, one was restored to view in 2004. Other murals were restored during a renovation completed in 2008.

More Toronto Public Library Plaques
Beaches Branch, Toronto Public Library
Dovercourt Branch, Toronto Public Library
George H. Locke Memorial Branch
High Park Branch, Toronto Public Library
Riverdale Branch, Toronto Public Library
Runnymede Branch, Toronto Public Library
Western Branch, Toronto Public Library
Weston Public Library
Yorkville Branch, Toronto Public Library

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