Toronto Writer Walks 300KM In 10 Days For Tribute To Mother

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A Toronto Writer Is Walking to All 100 Toronto Public Library Branches in 10 Days to Honour Her Late Mother

TORONTO, ON — In a deeply personal and physically demanding tribute, Toronto writer Marci Stepak will walk more than 300 kilometres across the city, visiting all 100 Toronto Public Library branches over 10 consecutive days from April 7 to April 16, 2026.

The journey marks the one-year anniversary of her mother’s passing — a lifelong Torontonian whose connection to the Toronto Public Library spanned more than five decades. Her belief was simple and unwavering: knowledge should be free, and curiosity should belong to everyone.

Just days before her passing, in a conversation that included funeral arrangements, she reminded her daughter to return her library books — “so other people can enjoy them too.” That moment now serves as the emotional foundation for the walk.

A City-Wide Journey With Purpose

Stepak will average roughly 30 kilometres per day, navigating the full breadth of Toronto — from Etobicoke to Scarborough, through Midtown, East York, and the Beaches — ultimately finishing at the Toronto Reference Library, her personal favourite branch.

The route required hours of manual planning, as no existing mapping tool accommodates a journey of this scale. Members of the public can follow the route or join along the way via the full map and calendar:

Supporting Community Through Libraries

Funds raised will support the Toronto Public Library Foundation, with a focus on programs for older adults — including outreach initiatives that combat isolation and foster community connection.

These programs played a meaningful role in Stepak’s mother’s life, making this initiative both a tribute and a continuation of that impact.

At a time when public spaces and shared resources face increasing pressure, the walk stands as a powerful reminder of the role libraries play in connecting communities.

An Invitation to the City

Torontonians are encouraged to join Stepak for any portion of the walk. Along the way, she will be documenting the journey and sharing stories that highlight the importance of libraries in people’s lives.

More information, updates, and ways to get involved: