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Biblio Bash 2025 Raises Over $1M for Toronto Public Library Youth Programs

Programs and Partnerships Supporting Teen Social Health and Mental Wellness to Be Expanded

Photos: George Pimentel

On April 3rd, the Toronto Public Library Foundation (TPLF) made history by raising an extraordinary $1,070,100 in support of Toronto Public Library programs—surpassing all fundraising targets.

Co-presented by Fitzrovia and CIBC, Biblio Bash 2025 brought together 425 guests and 37 of Canada’s most notable authors for a sold-out black-tie gala. Toronto’s business leaders, philanthropists, city builders, and library champions united to raise unprecedented funds for programs and partnerships supporting teen social health and mental wellness.

With reports of declining mental health among Toronto teens on the rise, there is an increasing focus in the healthcare community on investing in programs that foster social connectedness. Toronto Public Library’s expansive network of over 100 branches serves as a hub for safe, inclusive environments where teens can engage in activities like book clubs, spoken word workshops, and access designated teen spaces and after-school Youth Hubs.

At a time when community resources are stretched thin, teens need the Library more than ever.

During the evening, guests heard a powerful story from Arden, a registered nurse, who credited the Library’s Teen Council volunteer program with helping him overcome anxiety and pursue his career aspirations. Arden attended the gala with TPL Librarian Claire Argyropoulos, and their story was beautifully captured in a short film supported by Community Sponsor The MacNamara Family.

The evening’s host, journalist, author, and CBC commentator Elamin Abdelmahmoud, spoke about the profound role libraries play in the lives of young people and emphasized their importance in community building.

Biblio Bash Co-Chairs Claire MacNamara and Farah Nasser expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the guests for their generosity and for supporting the largest and busiest public library system in North America.

Toronto Public Library’s City Librarian, Vickery Bowles, was recognized for her decades of service and highlighted the TPL Foundation’s vital role in sustaining critical library programs:

“I can tell you over the years I have witnessed first-hand the difference donors and sponsors make in the lives of the residents we serve. You simply cannot underestimate the importance of having access to a public library and its services – particularly for Toronto’s young people.”

The night sky and stars evoked a sense of wonder, and the theme “Written in the Stars” took guests on a journey through nightfall, completely transforming the Toronto Reference Library space. Sipping cocktails in the second-floor book stacks—courtesy of Cocktail Sponsor Mantella Corporation—guests were transported to a time of epic tales, magical myths, and literary legends.

In the atrium, each table welcomed a notable guest author, thanks to Author Host Sponsor Bazil Developments. Among the buzz-worthy authors in attendance at the sold-out gala were John Irving, Emma Knight, Karl Subban, Zalika Reid-Benta, Carley Fortune, David A. Robertson, Scaachi Koul, Robert Rotenberg, Jane Urquhart, and Ian Williams. To see the full list, visit bibliobash.ca.

In keeping with the gala’s tradition, interactive experiences gave guests unique mementos to take home—bespoke poems from the talented artists at Posey, printed photos in the iconic stacks (sponsored by Air Canada), and sore feet from dancing the night away to the Supersonic Hearts Band. Layne, the Auctionista, energized the room with bids on courtside Raptors tickets and an exclusive “Dinner in the Stacks” with bestselling author and Academy Award-winner John Irving.

Celebrity photographer George Pimentel brought back his always-popular Portrait Studio, capturing the stylish crowd in their dazzling “night star” attire. The evening’s Media Sponsor was long-time TPLF partner, the Toronto Star.

Foundation CEO Will Scott underscored the Library’s impact in providing safe and welcoming spaces for Toronto’s youth:

“As a former middle school teacher and the father of a teenage daughter, I know how tough it is to be a teenager these days! Loneliness rates have doubled, and middle and high schoolers report significant levels of psychological distress. Libraries play a vital role in fostering a sense of belonging and connection. They can truly change lives and uplift entire communities. We are so grateful for the support here tonight.”

upport the Spring Campaign

For anyone wishing to contribute to TPLF’s Spring Campaign, all public donations are now being matched up to $50,000 until June 13th, thanks to a generous matching gift.

👉 Donate now at: tplfoundation.ca/match

📸 More photos by George Pimentel Photography available here.