Friends of Fisher Lectures in 2026 (All lectures begin at 6pm and are held in the Maclean Hunter Room at the Fisher Library)

Alexander Pathy Lecture on the Book Arts, Thursday 26 February
Chapbook Class and Research Creation , Claire Battershill

George Kiddell Memorial Lecture, Thursday March 26
Dante’s Inferno, Lorna Goodison

Johanna and Leon Katz Memorial Lecture, Thursday 30 April
Speaker will be LK Bertram

Previous Friends of Fisher Lectures can be found on the library's YouTube Channel.

The Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library is home to the University Archives (UTARMS) and the Department of Rare Books and Special Collections (RBSC). The Department of Rare Books and Special Collections at the Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library is the unit responsible for providing public access and library services to one of the largest holdings of rare books, special collections, and archives in Canada. The print, manuscript, and archival collections are many and varied, reflecting the wide diversity of teaching and research conducted at the University of Toronto.

The Fisher Library holds materials ranging from ancient papyrus fragments to contemporary artists’ books, with many manuscript and print traditions from around the world strongly represented. The extensive archival collections focus on the papers of Canadian authors and cultural figures. Areas of strength include Canadian history and literature, European literature and philosophy, Hebraica and Judaica, Theology, the history and art of the book, the history of science and medicine, history of leftist politics, labour, and social movements, Latin American studies, and Islamic manuscripts.

Fisher Library’s growth and impact have always been shaped by generosity. Since 1984, Friends of the Fisher recognize the importance of preserving, expanding, and ensuring access to these invaluable collections—ensuring they remain available for generations to come.

What it means to be a friend

When you make a gift to the Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library, you join a community of Friends who share a passion for knowledge, history, and discovery. Every contribution helps the Library acquire rare materials, conserve fragile works, and create opportunities for learning through exhibitions, lectures, and publications.

The impact of your support

Your generosity enables:

The purchase of rare books and manuscripts that expand our collections into existing or new areas of research, teaching, and learning.
Preservation through conservation and digitization of fragile works.
Improving access to existing collections by supporting cataloguing and processing projects.
Public programs, exhibitions, and scholarly activities to bring collections to life.

As a Friend, you’ll enjoy:

Exclusive invitations to lectures, events and behind-the-scenes experiences
A subscription to The Halcyon, our twice-yearly magazine featuring stories, acquisitions, and discoveries at the Fisher
Opportunities to connect with librarians, archivists, and fellow supporters
Donors giving $1,000 or more will receive priority registration access for workshops hosted by the Fisher Library. These popular small-group sessions (on topics like Introduction to Special Collections and Medieval Manuscripts) consistently sell out.
Donors giving $10,000 or more will receive an annual invitation to a special private tour, including a rare opportunity to visit the library’s stacks.

Support the Fisher Library

Every Friend ensures the Fisher remains a living resource—where the past continues to inspire new ideas. Join here.

Friends of the Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library

More information

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