By Sean Delaney
After 40 years with the Toronto Public Library, Domenica Venir—beloved Branch Head of the Humber Summit Library—has officially retired. On April 5th, the community bid farewell to one of the most compassionate and dedicated librarians one could ever hope to meet.
We caught up with Dominica on her second last day before retirement and had the pleasure of completing an interview. In a warm farewell, we were joined by MPP Tom Rakocevic, Toronto City Councillor Anthony Perruzza, and Sandra Farina, Executive Director of the Emery Village BIA, to present commemorative scrolls.
From the moment you meet Domenica, her warmth is unmistakable. When asked what first sparked her love of libraries, she smiled and said, “Yes, I have definitely been a reader since I was young. My dad actually worked for the Toronto Public Library. He was a custodian and later a maintenance mechanic. He got me in when I was 16. I started part-time at the Dufferin-St. Clair branch—and it just grew from there.”
Her career blossomed into a lifelong mission of service. Whether it was helping someone find a book or navigating complex paperwork, Domenica always delivered with care.
“We’re here to help,” she said. “It’s gone beyond books now. Libraries have become community hubs.”
That role as a connector to the community was clear in a story Domenica shared about a newcomer family from Ecuador. “They had very little English, and we helped them print some immigration forms. A few weeks later, the husband returned with an Ecuadorian flag, thanking us for helping his wife become a permanent resident. I’ll never forget that moment.”
Over the years, Domenica’s passion evolved. “I started with early childhood education. I loved visiting schools and doing programming with kids. But recently, I found myself drawn to seniors. I do painting classes with them—and they’re so committed, showing up rain or shine.”
One of her proudest accomplishments came during the COVID-19 pandemic. “We were tasked with calling every senior library cardholder to check in. The stories they shared… it was incredible. They were just so happy someone thought of them.”
When asked what she found most rewarding, she didn’t hesitate. “Helping people. Whether it’s finding a book or a community resource, just knowing we could be there for someone—that made the day worthwhile.”
Though Domenica is retiring, she isn’t slowing down. “I’m looking forward to relaxing and travelling. But I have plans—maybe teaching painting classes for seniors in the fall. I’ll still be around.”
And of course, she promised she’ll be reading the Emery Village Voice—her favourite local newspaper.
Domenica, thank you for your incredible service. You’ve left a legacy of kindness, knowledge, and community that will be felt for years to come.