change pin,

  custom research service,

  digital collections,

  online reference,

  make donations,

  summer reading club registrations and activities,

  access to subscription databases in library and externally.

The library is extending its own suite of e services to enhance online service delivery.

Some future initiatives include:

  expansion of the Virtual Reference Library,

  expansion of online reference services e.g., online interaction with reference librarian,

  creation of a single search interface for access to TPL's multiple electronic databases,

  enabling library customers to create personalised versions of the homepage,

  electronic notification to customers of services and programs of specific interest to

them,

  increase in the number of electronic databases offered to the public.

Funding for initiatives is provided through partnerships with public and private sectors:

  partnerships with various levels of government e.g., Human Resources Development

Canada, Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, 

  Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, 

  partnerships with the private sector e.g., Toronto Star,

  TPL Foundation fundraising initiatives,

  digitisation grant funding. 

Savings have not been realised, as substantial resources are required to fund 

requirements of networking and electronic service delivery. The Toronto Public Library

is currently experiencing dramatic increases in the demand for electronic services and

continues to balance this growth with that of traditional services. 

Josephine Bryant, the CEO feels that libraries can play a pivotal role in community

interaction with e government because of their:

  positions as focal points in the community,

  experience in development and maintenance of digital information,

  knowledgeable and trained staff who can teach required informational skills,

  extensive and convenient opening hours ,

  role as advocates for public space in a digital world.

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