Education
Toronto Library Launches Free Coding Bootcamps
Public libraries across the city are offering accessible tech education, helping teens and adults build digital skills.
June 11, 2025 at 20:07 — By By Horizon Tribune Editorial Team
Toronto Public Library branches across the city are launching a new series of free coding bootcamps aimed at making tech education more accessible to people of all ages. The initiative, titled 'Code at the Library,' is part of a broader push to equip Torontonians with digital skills in an increasingly tech-driven economy.
Open to teens and adults, the bootcamps offer beginner-friendly instruction in Python, web development, and game design. Classes are held in dedicated digital innovation hubs at 12 library locations, each equipped with laptops, software, and hands-on support from trained instructors.
The program has been especially popular among high school students looking to supplement their curriculum and adults seeking new career paths. 'I never thought I’d be learning to code at my age,' said 42-year-old participant Denise Wong. 'But the instructors are so patient, and it’s actually fun.'
Each bootcamp runs for four to six weeks and culminates in a final project — anything from building a personal website to programming a simple video game. Graduates receive a certificate of completion that can be used for job applications or school portfolios.
Instruction is led by a mix of library staff, local tech volunteers, and guest instructors from partner organizations like Ladies Learning Code and Bitmaker Labs. The program is designed to be inclusive, with sessions available in multiple languages and accommodations for participants with disabilities.
Library officials say the response has exceeded expectations. 'We had a waitlist before the first class even started,' said technology services manager David Kaplan. 'It shows there’s a real hunger for these kinds of learning opportunities, especially in neighborhoods that have been underserved.'
In addition to coding, the program includes workshops on digital literacy, online safety, and career pathways in the tech sector. Job seekers can also access one-on-one resume reviews and portfolio coaching.
To support the initiative, the library partnered with local startups and tech firms, many of which provided hardware, funding, or volunteers. Councillor Janet Lin praised the effort, calling it 'a brilliant example of libraries evolving to meet the needs of the 21st century.'
Plans are already underway to expand the program to additional branches later this year. Mobile pop-up labs are also in development to reach residents in more remote or underserved areas of the city.
As Toronto cements its place as a North American tech hub, programs like 'Code at the Library' ensure that opportunity doesn’t remain the domain of the few — but becomes accessible to all.