Canada’s largest publicly accessible repository of rare books and manuscripts, housing the University of Toronto’s archives and papers of major Canadian literary figures.
At a glance
An academic library on the St. George campus of the University of Toronto, the Thomas Fisher is a research institution of national importance. Part of the Robarts Library building complex, it serves scholars, students and the public.
History
The library was established as a specialized collection within the university to preserve and provide access to rare materials of scholarly and cultural value. It has grown to become Canada’s premier repository for rare books and manuscripts.
What you see
Integrated into the modern Robarts Library complex, the Fisher occupies dedicated spaces designed for the secure housing and study of rare materials. Climate-controlled reading rooms accommodate researchers working with fragile manuscripts and historical documents.
Cultural significance
The library preserves essential records of Canadian intellectual and literary life. Its archival holdings include university records and personal papers of major writers—Margaret Atwood and Leonard Cohen among them—making it vital for literary scholarship and cultural history research.
Key facts
- Location: Toronto, Canada
- Coordinates: 43.66°N, 79.40°W
- Campus: University of Toronto, St. George
- Status: Largest publicly accessible rare book repository in Canada
Practical information & getting there
The library is located on the University of Toronto’s downtown St. George campus. Access to rare materials typically requires advance notice and consultation with library staff. Visit the university website for current hours, access policies and research appointment procedures.
Sources & resources
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