Feel like you’re drowning in data and not sure what to do with it? The journey from finding data to making sense of it can be challenging.

That’s where TMU Libraries’ Statistical Consultation and Learning Service (SCLS) comes in. Led by Data Librarian Kevin Manuel and Statistical Support Specialist Bhaswati Mazumder, the SCLS was recently honored with a travel award from the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation. The award recognizes their 50th Annual IASSIST data conference presentation, “Enhancing Research Support through Collaboration: The Impact of the Statistical Support Specialist at TMU,” which showcases how the SCLS is helping bridge the gap between data retrieval and analysis.

Offered through the Libraries’ Geospatial Map and Data Centre (GMDC), the SCLS helps researchers understand and make sense of their data and statistical information. While libraries have always provided expertise in locating and retrieving information, SCLS now ensures there’s additional guidance analyzing and interpreting data effectively.

“TMU Libraries has long recognized a need for statistical support based on requests from our patrons wanting to analyze data that the Libraries provides,” says Manuel. “The addition of the service and a Statistical Support Specialist has allowed the GMDC to offer a full complement of data discovery plus statistical analysis assistance.”

The SCLS provides in-class instruction and hands-on support for graduate students and faculty. And, while the service supports all researchers, it offers additional support for anyone from non-quantitative backgrounds working on data-intensive projects for the first time. The service aims to make quantitative research accessible and less intimidating.

The award, from the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, is a nod to these data consulting initiatives that help to advance scholarly conversations, collaborations and understanding on and of data and statistical science.

As the 2025 term begins, the SLCS is introducing new programming that adds to their outreach and teaching efforts. Since the field of quantitative research is always evolving, to ensure the Libraries’ keep pace, the Service is launching Stats Chat, a weekly workshop series starting this fall. 

Stats Chat is a drop-in workshop series that offers learning sessions on a variety of data and statistical topics every Thursday afternoon. “These sessions are designed to strengthen the TMU community’s data and statistical literacy,” says Mazumder. “My goal with the weekly Stats Chat is to create an open dialogue that helps participants discover the learning approaches and tools best suited to their individual needs.”

Through guest talks, class visits, and faculty consultation, SLCS is also actively exploring how to incorporate new instructional materials to make learning statistics and data analysis more effective.

 

 

“How we analyze data is constantly evolving—SCLS is here to connect researchers with the tools and resources to grow with it,” says Mazumder. By bridging the gap between data retrieval and analysis, the SCLS is empowering researchers to better understand and present their data.

 

 

 

 

If you missed last week’s Library orientation workshops, don’t worry. We’ve got you covered!

Check out Navigating TMU Libraries.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Learn how to formula solid research questions, borrow textbooks, and access media creation and immersive studios.  It’s all at the Library!

Research help

Researching for a project, essay or assignment? Visit the Library.

Librarians can help you understand every step of the research process. Whether you are new to research or a graduate student, it’s important to know the resources, process, services and opportunities available to help you succeed.

Research help is offered in a variety of ways: you can drop-in, request an online appointment, chat in real-time, or sign up for a workshop. 

It’s easy, all you need to do is ask!

Check out these helpful services and resources:

• Learn to formulate effective research questions
• Get research help
• Research help guide
• Take a workshop, sharpen your research skills

 

Access the information you need!

TMU Libraries academic search tool called Omni allows you to seamlessly access and search TMU Libraries, as well as 18 other Ontario university libraries–all in one place, at the same time!

Not only do you have access to over hundreds of thousands of ebooks, electronic journals, magazines, professional publications, newspapers, and streaming videos through TMU Libraries, but you can also access over 25 million physical items from 18 other Ontario university libraries.

Feeling overwhelmed and wondering where to start?

Subject librarians can help you understand available resources, and how to access and use them. Find your subject librarian

Subjct guides are curated by librarians. These are excellent resources that contain access to research and information in specific subject areas.

 

Take advantage of the Media Creation and Immersive Studios, and the Digital Media Experience Lab

These spaces and studios are for you! Regardless of what you’re studying you have access to photography, video, sound editing and podcasting equipment. 

If you’re interested in creating an immersive experience for a project the Libraries’ Immersion Studio provides you with the support and resources to make it happen.

The Digital Media Experience Lab is the Libraries’ makerspace. Here you have access to media stations, 3D modelling software and printers, sewing machines and so much more.

And, the Media Creation Studio is a beginner space where you can learn video editing, podcasting or still photography.

Staff are onsite to assist you whether you’re a beginner or an expert!

 

Borrow textbooks, laptops, camera kits and microphones

Of course you can check out print material at the Circulation Desk, but did you know you can also borrow textbooks, laptops, cameras, tripods, GoPros, and microphones?

Check the loan periods, and the equipment borrowing and lending pages for more information.

 

Specialized collections, and spaces

Material ConneXion is an onsite textile and material collection of items to explore, examine and research. This collection provides a tactile understanding of materials with information about each item, e.g. the type of material, what its make up is, and/or if it’s sustainable. 

While it is available to all students, it is primarily used by interior design, fashion, engineering, architecture and business students.

Geospatial Map and Data Centre (GMDC) provides access to specialised geospatial software, data and statistical resources. There are data, map and GIS librarians, analysts, and a statistical consultant and learning specialist. Here you can get assistance with GIS information and software, learn how to locate and access statistical information and data, and how to analyze and present it. There is also a large print map collection!

Special Collections offers access to rare books and primary source material like Canadian World War II comic books, Late Victorian avant-garde magazines, an original chromolithic edition of the Grammar of Ornament, a thank you note from Winston Churchill and so much more. Explore unique opportunities for research from the history of fashion and graphic design to women artists in the 19th century.

TMU Archives holds the historic record of the university from its days as a polytechnic institute to becoming a university. Explore images of campus life from the first days of nursing studies, activism, journalism, and even the construction of the Library building.

 

Study spaces, computer stations and labs

There are nine floors (2 – 10) available for work and study, each offering different types of spaces and seating options. 

There are computer stations and labs, group study rooms, open group tables, and individual carols and soft seating. 

Learn more and find your favourite study spot!

 

 

 

A significant collection of works by the late, visionary poet bpNichol has been generously donated to Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) Libraries. bpNichol’s revolutionary work, particularly in concrete poetry, was a staple of the university’s curriculum in the 1970s. The donation, while solidifying TMU Libraries’ role as a significant repository for Canadian literary history, ensures bpNichol’s poetic legacy will continue to inspire and inform generations of researchers and students.

The collection, comprising nearly 200 items, is a donation by Brian Dedora, poet and close friend of bpNichol’s. However, its journey to TMU Libraries began with English professors Aaron Tucker (now at Memorial University) and Dale Smith who recognized Dedora’s collection as having great academic value, and brought it to the attention of Val Lem, head of Collections and former English literature liaison librarian. 

Lem, also seeing the value of the collection, then worked with Special Collections Librarian, Alison Skyrme to acquire it for TMU Libraries.

“Dedora’s extensive collection of works by and about bpNichol, arguably one of Canada’s most important and challenging poets of the 1970s and 80s, represented an opportunity for TMU Libraries to strengthen its collections that support the study of Canadian literature from the 20th century,” says Lem.

Its breadth and depth is what makes this collection exceptional. While not a complete set of published works, it is one that would be difficult, maybe even impossible to replicate since much of it  was acquired as a result of the close friendship between bpNichol and Dedora.

In addition to published materials, there are many items personally inscribed to Dedora including Christmas cards and small printed pieces that would have only circulated among friends and family. 

“The inclusion of cards and poetic artworks created for family and friends is a fascinating view into how bpNichol’s creativity was expressed in personal correspondence and offers insight into the author’s literary community,” says Skyrme.

One of the collection highlights is the GrOnk/Ganglia Press (of which Nichol was publisher) materials, including the complete series of GrOnk magazines and nicely preserved newsletters. These pieces alone make for a prized collection.

Another highlight is the complete Seripress catalogue. Works issued by Seripress are highly collectible and quite scarce. The catalogue donation includes the first book ever issued by the press, titled The Adventures of Milt the Morph in Colour. The book is a large portfolio made up of stunning collaborative works between bpNichol and artist Barbara Caruso, including 8 serigraphs limited to only 25 copies and signed by Nichol and Caruso. 

The bpNichol collection, now held at TMU Libraries’ Archives and Special Collections, offers researchers, students and faculty an invaluable resource for study. English scholars will find rich material for studying experimental poetry, sound poetry, and the Canadian literary avant-garde. Graphic design students and researchers can now explore first-hand the visual and typographical innovations present in bpNichol’s work, especially through the Seripress and Ganglia Press materials. The collection also provides insights for anyone examining the intersections of language, art, and media.

This generous donation will be known as the Collection of Brian Dedora and Donald Irving, partners of 46 years, during which time Dedora built the collection and Irving curated the framing and hanging of some of the Seripress collaborations. Facilitated by Professors Tucker and Smith and TMU Librarian Val Lem, the collection is an impressive acquisition of rare books and ephemera that ensures bpNichol’s vibrant and influential voice will continue to challenge, inspire, and redefine the boundaries of artistic expression.

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Upcoming bpNichol event!

Join us Thurs., Sept. 11, 5:30-7:30 p.m. to celebrate the bpNichol collection at TMU Libraries

Opening remarks at 6:15 p.m. by Mark Robertson, Dean of Libraries followed by Dale Smith, TMU English Professor in conversation with Brian Dedora, friend and contemporary of bpNichol and donor of this collection.

Materials from the bpNichol collection will be on display

Register:
https://bpnicholcollection_tmulibraries.eventbrite.ca

 

 

As the Spring/Summer 2025 term wraps up, please ensure any outstanding fines are paid and overdue items are returned. Students with fines more than $25 or overdues will not be able to view their grades until their accounts are cleared.

You can pay fines at the Circulation Desk (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or OneCard) or by phone at 416-979-2149. We do not accept personal cheques.

For questions, contact us at access@torontomu.ca.

Good luck with your exams!

This past spring, when a middle school teacher reached out to the libraries’ Faculty of Community Services liaison librarian, Jane Schmidt asking about a potential Library visit, it opened an opportunity to spark imaginations and expand ideas about academic libraries. The idea for a visit then evolved from a Library tour into a unique and eye-opening excursion that offered curious middle schoolers a firsthand glimpse into the world of academic discovery.

When first approached about a visit, Schmidt’s initial reaction was: “why not introduce these kids to the incredible tools, knowledge, and spaces we have at TMU Libraries? Maybe it will light a spark.”

While many of the students mentioned wanting to go to university after high school, having a chance to ”see and walk through the campus, explore the library, and interact with the resources—that makes it real. That’s powerful,” says Schmidt.

With that, what started as a simple tour developed into something more meaningful. The visit became an intentional effort to demystify post-secondary education. An itinerary for the visit was set. When the students arrived on campus they were guided into various areas of the Main TMU Library, exploring everything from 3D printing and virtual reality in the Digital Media Experience Lab to participating in a scavenger hunt in the stacks.

At the Libraries’ Media Creation Studio, they had the chance to hear their own voices in the podcast booth and learn about lighting for photography. At the Immersion Studio they heard about creating immersive experiences for school projects, and while amazed, it wasn’t just the tech that caught their interest. Students were equally curious about the stacks. “I was really touched by how many of them opted to explore the books rather than only play with the tech,” says Schmidt.

Perhaps one of the most memorable moments of the visit came during their time spent at the Archives and Special Collections. There, students discovered early camera equipment, TMU’s retired Eggy the Ram mascot head, and Wampum Belts—which prompted conversations around reconciliation and the university’s renaming.

“They showed an impressive understanding of why renaming matters. We connected it to the broader context of reconciliation and even discussed the renaming of Dundas Station,” says Schmidt.

The visit wasn’t just eye-opening for the students—it was exciting for the teachers as well.

The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with Mr. IIic, one of the class teachers, referring to the visit as “formative,” stressing its long-term value. “The kids don’t know how enriching it is,” says IIic. “But it will come back to them—when they see a piece of tech or remember a conversation. It plants a seed.”

As for offering more school visits?

“Absolutely, we’ll do it again,” says Schmidt. “Investing in young people is never time wasted. If we want the next generation to be curious, thoughtful, and engaged, we need to give them opportunities to see the wider world—and their place in it.”

 

 

 

Nam Jin Yoon joins TMU Libraries from Columbia Law School where he was the Head of Public Services at the Arthur W. Diamond Law Library. While at Columbia, he was also a Lecturer in Law teaching Legal Research & Writing and Advanced Legal Research Techniques. Prior to becoming a librarian, Nam Jin practiced as an associate at Latham & Watkins LLP, where he represented clients in a diverse array of commercial litigation matters and maintained an active pro bono practice with a focus on representing underserved youth.

Nam Jin holds a Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School (2016), a Master of Library and Information Science from the University of Washington (2019), and a BA in English from Amherst College (2012).  

As Head Law Librarian, Nam Jin will be responsible for continuing to build a robust and innovative law library branch that includes a rich collection of quality legal resources, an outstanding legal research instructional program, and student focused services customized to meet TMU’s unique law curriculum. 

Nam Jin moves into the position following John Papadopoulos’ inaugural term as Head Law Librarian. John remains at the Law Library continuing to provide legal research expertise to faculty and students. 

“I’m delighted to join TMU Libraries in its ongoing work to support the students and faculty of the Lincoln Alexander School of Law,” says Nam Jin. “I’m honored to have the opportunity to continue John’s vision of developing a unique law library dedicated to furthering the law school’s innovative curriculum.”

Nam Jin joins the Libraries’ leadership team, reporting to Mark Robertson, dean of Libraries, while also working closely with Donna Young, dean of Law, as well as the law faculty and the library team. 

“We’re thrilled to welcome Nam Jin as our new Head Law Librarian,” says Mark. “He is an exceptional librarian and promises exciting developments for the Law Library’s services, collections, and spaces.  We are all looking forward to working with him.”

Fun fact about Nam Jin: he is a freelance crossword writer for the New York Times!

 

 

The Bikram S. Dhillon and Family Medical Library will be the School of Medicine’s gateway to learning, an essential resource for study, research and collaboration.

Toronto, July 10, 2025 – Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) today announced that Bikram Dhillon, CEO of BVD Group, and his family have made a transformational donation to the TMU School of Medicine in Brampton. The school welcomed its first cohort of future physicians earlier this month with the launch of its Postgraduate Medical Education (PGME) programs.  Over 100 residents began their training in 16 newly accredited residency programs. The Dhillon family’s multi-million dollar contribution will support the establishment of the university’s new Medical Library along with two new student awards.

Recognizing that the costs of undertaking a medical education can be a challenge for many promising candidates, the Dhillon family established two new awards programs. The Bikram S. Dhillon and Family Scholarship—worth up to $50,000 each—will be awarded to five outstanding students  demonstrating commitment to health in their community. And, each year, five incoming students of high academic standing will receive the Bikram S. Dhillon and Family Award, providing $5,000 to each student toward their medical education.

TMU is proud to recognize the generosity of Bikram Dhillon and family through the naming of the Medical Library. The Bikram S. Dhillon and Family Medical Library will be the School of Medicine’s gateway to learning, an essential resource for study, research and collaboration. The Dhillon family’s generous donation to the TMU School of Medicine aligns with their notable history of giving back to the community, and their keen awareness of the need to strengthen medical education and local health care.

Learn more:

Media release : Bikram Dhillon and family make landmark gift to TMU School of Medicine

Toronto Met Today; Bikram Dhillon and family make landmark gift to TMU School of Medicine

 

The Toronto Metropolitan University Libraries is pleased to announce this year’s 2025 Open Educational Resources (OER) Grants, supporting the creation and adoption of openly licensed learning materials.

Open Educational Resources (OER) are educational materials that are free to use, adapt, reproduce, and share. These resources can take many forms, including courses, modules, textbooks, multimedia, assessments, and other supplementary content.

The OER Grants program aligns with TMU’s commitment to open education, innovation, inclusive teaching, and enhancing student learning. It builds on the Libraries’s strengths in digital scholarship, Open Access, and OER publishing and dissemination. 

The Libraries is pleased to be offering three types of OER Grant opportunities. In addition to a grant offered solely by TMU Libraries, two additional grants are being offered via a Partnership grant model, with TRSM and CELT. 

2025 Toronto Metropolitan University Libraries Open Educational Resources (OER) Grants

Offered and supported by The TMU Libraries, these Open textbook and multimedia creation grants have been offered by TMU Libraries since 2018. A total of $30,000 is available in two categories of grants. 

2025 Toronto Metropolitan University Library and Ted Rogers School Of Management OER Partnership Grant

The TMU Libraries and Ted Rogers School Of Management 2025 OER Partnership Grant  encourages the creation and adoption of open educational resources (OER) with a focus on 100-level and 200-level business courses. This grant also was offered in 2020 and 2022, and to date the projects produced have saved TMU students an estimated $1 300 000. A single $40,000 two-part grant that runs over two years will be available to the successful proposal. 

2025 Teaching with OER Grant: A partnership between TMU Libraries and the CELT

New this year TMU Libraries and the Centre for Excellence in Learning and Teaching (CELT) are pleased to announce a new joint Teaching with OER Grant to encourage the creation and adoption of open educational resources in large enrolment classes. The grant will also be supported by CELT’s Digital Learning Team (DL) which will provide pedagogical / instructional design and multimedia production services. A single $15,000 grant will be available to the successful proposal. 

The deadline for all three grants this year is September 30th, 2025. 

 

Madison Hall just completed her first year as a graduate student in TMU’s Photography Preservation and Collections Management at the Creative School. This summer, through the Young Canada Works program, she’s gaining experience researching and handling special collections at the Libraries’ Archives and Special Collections. 

The Libraries’ Special Collections are home to a growing mass of prominent photography collections that include: the student First Edition Photobook Collection; the Kodak Collection; and the Collingwood Collection–composed of photos taken in Ontario between 1940s and 1990s. The latter is especially appealing to Hall as she notes she has, “a particular interest in early-to-mid twentieth century photography.”

Her role at the Libraries’ Archives and Special Collections is not the first opportunity Hall has had to work with older materials. She previously held positions at local history museums and a municipal archive, which she credits as giving her a solid foundation in collections handling and archival research. However, this is her first time working with special collections at a library, a different environment that adds to her breadth of experience. “My current role at TMU Libraries’ Archives and Special Collections is particularly valuable in order to consider how library-based collections operate differently from other cultural/heritage institutions–especially in terms of descriptive standards, and the emphasis on serving academic as well as public audiences,” she says.

In this role, Hall is working towards an internship credit–a requirement of her graduate program–while gaining valuable experience in an area that she may one day be interested in working in. “I have aspired to become either an archivist or collections manager since my first job in a museum, and have a keen interest in how primary sources, especially photographic materials, can help shape or change our understanding of history,” says Hall. 

Not only is Hall gaining experience handling photography collections, but she is also receiving mentorship from Special Collections Librarian Alison Skyrme to whom she reports. “It’s been wonderful to work with Madison and see her put into practice the archival and photographic preservation skills she has learned in theory,” says Skyrme. “She has naturally adapted classroom concepts to the real challenges of working with an archive collection with all the attendant preservation issues. She is becoming a thoughtful steward of our visual history.”

Hall’s goal throughout the summer is to learn as much as she can about making collections accessible and engaging to the public, “while preserving the quiet legacy of vernacular photography,” she says. In working with the Collingwood Collection, she is gaining hands-on experience with rehousing, condition assessments, description, digitization, and public outreach with photos that require careful handling and contextual research. In so far as the experience relates to her studies, Hall adds “these are things that I have developed a theoretical grasp on.” Through her role at the Archives and Special Collections she is able to take that theoretical knowledge and put it into practice.