JPL Membership

Membership and Friends

The Jewish Public Library is an independent, non-profit, community-based organization.

The “Jewish” part of the Jewish Public Library refers to the collection, not the users. The Library is open to everyone. However, only members may borrow from our collections. You are welcome to visit our library without being a member and utilize our services during opening hours.

Unlike your local city library, we are funded by the community for the community. Consequently, we depend on the support of our members to continue to serve our community.

Membership has its privileges

Members have access to:

  • The largest circulating Judaica collection in North America
  • Access to our eBook Collection of the hottest new releases
  • Databases for academic research
  • Supporting the Jewish Public Library Archives, the repository of our community’s history
  • A free hour of a genealogical session with the Jewish Genealogical Society,  (not applicable to Online Only Membership)
  • 5% off a new membership at the YM-YWHA, (not applicable to Online Only Membership)
  • 15% off regular ticket prices at the Segal Centre for Performing Arts, (not applicable to Online Only Membership)
 Membership Category Regular Price 
 Family $72
 Individual $54 
Federation CJA Employee  $36 
Senior (60+)  $36 
Senior Couple (60+) $54 
Student (> 26 w/valid student ID)  $36 
Online (access to eBooks & online databases only)  $18 
Children (up to 13 years of age)  $18 


 

A tax receipt will be issued for the portion of fees exceeding the first $55.  

For new immigrants arriving in Canada, the JPL offers a free one year membership with proof of new arrival. Our partners at Ometz allow for us to make these connections.

If you are struggling financially, Ometz is also able to recommend a $15 subsidized membership. Proof of social assistance may be required. Please come to the circulation desk or contact us to learn more.

Honoured Memberships

Each Honoured Membership includes a full Family membership, plus a tax receipt issued for the portion of fees exceeding $55.

Benefactor $180  
Governor $360  
Friend $540

Friend Membership

Becoming a Friend of the JPL is to become a part of a community of advocates, thinkers, and individuals whose stalwart commitment to the Library’s mandate remains vital to our spirit and sustainability. It is because of our Friends that the Library will be able to remain a vibrant and dynamic institution for generations to come.

As our most honoured membership category, Friends are entitled to a variety of benefits such as two complimentary tickets to cultural events, no late fees, and invitations to Friends-exclusive events. One such event is the highly anticipated Norma Cummings, z”l, Annual Friends Keynote Cocktail Reception which began in the home of Norma and Jack Cummings almost thirty years ago. Today, Friends of the Library are a pillar of our institution. Join today!

*Honoured Memberships are exempt from our Fall 2022 promotional discount. 

You will also benefit from discounts from our community partners:

One free hour of genealogical assistance with the Jewish Genealogical Society

5% off a new membership at the YM-YWHA

15% off a new subscription at the Segal Centre for Performing Arts

Frequently asked membership questions

What happens if I lose my card?
There is a $5 replacement charge for lost or stolen cards. If you’ve forgotten your card when you come to the library, you may still borrow books with a valid piece of ID. 

What if you don’t have my book? Can you get it?
In most cases, yes. The Library can borrow books from another library in Canada using our Interlibrary Loan service on your behalf. You must be a JPL member to benefit from this program.

Can any book in the collection be borrowed?
All books except for those located in the Reference collection and other special collections can be borrowed. For more information on borrowing please check out borrowing page.