robarts library expansion

Huge expansion of Robarts Library finally set to begin

You either love or hate the University of Toronto's Robarts Library, the huge Brutalist structure at the corner of St. George and Harbord streets.

The building has been earmarked for expansion for a number of years now, with a five-storey addition by Diamond and Schmitt Architects announced back in 2015. Construction was supposed to start last year, but as Urban Toronto reports, it'll finally begin this summer.

robarts university toronto

Looking at Robarts from the south west. Photo by Diamond and Schmitt Architects.

Called Robarts Common, the new part of the building will include 1,200 new work and study spaces as well as a cafe and outdoor public space.

This marks phase 2 of the Robarts' revitalization project. Phase 1 included updating existing study spaces and the library's electronic infrastructure as well as opening new special collections.

Lead photo by

Diamond and Schmitt Architects


Latest Videos



Latest Videos


Join the conversation Load comments

Latest in City

Here are all the 2025 statutory holidays in Canada

Huge stretch of TTC subway spanning 11 stations closed for the next 2 weekends

Most people in Toronto now think that the city is moving in the wrong direction

11 million Canada Post parcels now undelivered ahead of Black Friday

Busy Toronto street kicks off major makeover set to wrap in 2025

Here's how much money you could save during Canada's GST holiday

Huge changes planned to 'transform' a major Toronto street

Canadians working in certain fields can expect a big pay bump in 2025