About the Library

FILM REFERENCE LIBRARY

About the Library

We would like to acknowledge the key role that Gerald Pratley (1923–2011) played in the establishment of the Film Reference Library. Pratley was a true champion of film and a tireless leader. As Founder of the Ontario Film Institute, he ensured that a collection of materials indispensable to film education, production, and research became housed and preserved for future generations. In 1990, the Province of Ontario selected TIFF to be the guardian of the Ontario Film Institute, granting its holdings of film prints and film resources and prompting the creation of TIFF’s Film Reference Library.

Hours and Location

The TIFF Film Reference Library accepts walk-in visitors.

If you would like to visit us while the Lightbox is closed, please call us at 416-934-3275 upon arrival to be let into the building.

If you would like an appointment, please contact libraryservices@tiff.net to book a time or request research assistance. We recommend booking at least two days in advance when possible, to ensure the requested materials can be made accessible.

The Library provides virtual reference services via our phone number below and via email.

Film Reference Library and CIBC Canadian Film Gallery

4th Floor, TIFF Lightbox
350 King Street West, Toronto
416-934-3275 | libraryservices@tiff.net

Hours

Sunday
Closed
Monday
Closed
Tuesday
12pm–5pm
Wednesday
12pm–5pm
Thursday
12pm–6pm
Friday
12pm–6pm
Saturday
12pm–5pm

Our Affiliations

Fédération International des Archives du Film

Association of Moving Image Archivists

Canadian Museums Association

Cinémathèque québécoise

Ontario Museum Association

Ontario Library Association

Library in the News

Tour the library in this interview with Senior Manager & Special Collections manager - What She Said!

10 Unique Items From the TIFF Film Reference Library - The Review

Inside the Film Reference Library at the TIFF Bell Lightbox - Blog TO

Interview with Library Director on "In Love with the Stars" Exhibition - FAJO Magazine


A proud affiliate member of the International Federation of Film Archives (FIAF), the Film Reference Library is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and providing access to a comprehensive collection of materials – including 35mm films – to promote Canadian and international film scholarship.

Film Reference Library and CIBC Canadian Film Gallery
4th floor, TIFF Lightbox
Reitman Square, 350 King Street West, Toronto
416-934-3275 |