Toronto Public Library Launches Youth Podcasting Studio

Teenagers will now have access to professional audio equipment and mentorship at selected branches across the city.

The Toronto Public Library (TPL) has unveiled a new podcasting studio dedicated to youth creators, marking a significant step in the institution’s efforts to promote digital literacy and creative expression. The studio, located in the renovated Youth Hub at the Parkdale branch, offers access to professional-grade recording equipment, editing software, and mentorship.

Aimed at teens aged 13 to 19, the space is designed to be both educational and empowering. 'Young people have important stories to tell,' said project lead Jasmine Abara. 'This studio gives them the tools to explore identity, community, and creativity through the power of voice.'

The initiative is part of the library’s broader Digital Innovation Hubs program, which has introduced makerspaces and media labs in several branches across the city. What sets the Youth Podcasting Studio apart is its dedicated focus on amplifying young voices and providing structured support through weekly workshops and drop-in sessions.

Workshops will cover the full production cycle — from scripting and sound design to interviewing and editing. Youth facilitators and local podcasters will lead sessions and offer personalized feedback. Participating teens can choose to create solo shows, collaborate with peers, or contribute to a shared TPL podcast channel.

To ensure accessibility, all services are free and equipment is available on-site. Users can book two-hour sessions and will be provided with headsets, microphones, soundproof booths, and computers with licensed editing software such as Audacity and Adobe Audition.

Since its soft launch last month, the studio has already hosted over 40 teens and helped produce a dozen pilot episodes. Topics range from mental health and music reviews to community interviews and personal storytelling.

TPL partnered with local youth organizations and media arts collectives to shape the program. One key collaborator was VibeArts, a nonprofit specializing in equity-based arts programming. 'We wanted to make sure this wasn’t just tech access, but a space for authentic, culturally relevant storytelling,' said VibeArts coordinator Nyasha Mensah.

Library staff also received specialized training in youth engagement and podcast production, ensuring that the environment is welcoming and inclusive. Posters, zines, and a curated resource library help creators find inspiration and develop their narrative voices.

City officials have praised the initiative as a model for other municipal libraries. Councillor Dianne Saxe called it 'an investment in civic engagement and media literacy for the next generation,' noting that podcasting encourages critical thinking and communication skills often neglected in traditional curricula.

The Parkdale branch was chosen for the pilot due to its high youth traffic and community diversity. If successful, TPL plans to expand the program to additional branches in neighborhoods such as Scarborough and Rexdale by next year.

Registration for summer programming is now open online, and the studio will also host a podcast showcase in August to highlight emerging youth talent. The event will be open to the public and feature live recordings, Q&A panels, and awards for outstanding episodes.