Borrowing History

Borrowing history is an opt-in feature allowing you to view a list of physical items you have borrowed from the library. Toronto Public Library does not keep a record of your borrowing history unless you enable this feature in your account. You may opt out of this service at any time.

What you will see in your borrowing history

What you will not see in your borrowing history

Frequently asked questions

Does this feature track all my borrowing history?

Once you opt in to borrowing history, physical books, audiobooks, DVDs and CDs will appear on your borrowing history list after the items have been returned to the library. Magazines, uncatalogued paperbacks and some other types of materials are not included in borrowing history.

When does my borrowing history start?

Borrowing history starts from the date you opt in and onwards. Your past borrowing history is not available.

Is there a limit to the number of items retained in my borrowing history?

Currently there is no limit to the number of items displayed in your borrowing history. However, as more customers begin to use this feature, the Library may need to limit the number of items retained to ensure optimal performance.

Will eBooks and eAudiobooks show up in my borrowing history?

At this time borrowing history is limited to physical materials only. You can still view your eBook and eAudiobook borrowing history using your OverDrive account. We are considering the integration of both physical and digital borrowing history as a future enhancement.

Can I sort my borrowing history?

Yes, you can sort your borrowing history by title, author, format, date borrowed and date returned. You can also add titles to your saved lists.

Can I search my borrowing history?

Yes, you can search your borrowing history by title or author.

Can I download and print my borrowing history?

Yes. You can download your borrowing history and print it if you like. Simply click the download link at the bottom of your borrowing history page.

Can I delete items from my borrowing history?

Items cannot be deleted from borrowing history. This feature may become available as a future enhancement.

What happens if I turn the feature off, then want to turn it back on again at a later date?

You may opt in and opt out at any time, however, only the items returned during the period when you were opted in will show up in your borrowing history list. Once you opt out, you will still be able to view your borrowing history for the period during which you were opted-in.

Where is my borrowing history information stored? What happens with the information?

Borrowing history records are stored on secure TPL servers in Toronto for those customers who have opted in to the feature. The information is encrypted and cannot be decoded outside of the borrowing history application.

Can staff turn on/off borrowing history for me?

Staff cannot turn borrowing history on or off for you. Use the settings in your account to opt in or out.

Who can I contact if I have more questions about borrowing history?

You can speak to staff at your local branch, or contact Answerline by phone, live chat, or email.

Are there any circumstances where the library would make this information available to a third party?

TPL takes your privacy seriously. Under the terms of the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, the Library cannot share customer information with any third party, unless legally compelled to do so by a law enforcement agency to aid an investigation. Questions about the management of personal information can be directed to the Data Governance and Privacy Risk Advisor, Toronto Public Library, 789 Yonge Street, 416-395-5658.