Toronto just found a way to save our libraries $1 million

The City of Toronto always seems like it's looking to save money, but today Mayor John Tory announced a multi-pronged money-saving plan, which includes making changes to how parts of Toronto run.

In this plan, which will reportedly save Toronto tens of millions of dollars, the city will reduce the number of leases it holds, move some of its office space out of the downtown core and create collaborative work environments, which will see a greater number of employees working in certain areas.

As for the libraries, the city will start letting Torontonians pay their fines at self-checkout stations - this will apparently save $1 million.

By offering more services online, the city plans to reduce its 41 service counters down to five full service counters by 2021. In-person transactions cost the city $23 each and transacations completed over the phone cost $16 - online transactions cost only $2 each. These online transactions will also be more convenient for users and Mayor Tory says it's time Toronto joins the 21st century.

"People expect to be able to pay their bills and receive permits through the internet, just like they can access services in other parts of their lives. Right now if you have a restaurant in Etobicoke you have to go to a counter at the East York Civic Centre to get your restaurant license but then you have to go to another place in your own area of town to get a patio license. It makes no sense," said Tory.

Photo by Kevin Morris via the blogTO Flickr pool.

by Staff via blogTO