Griffin pins commemorating the opening of Lillian Smith Branch

These commemorative pins were given to staff who helped set up the new Lillian Smith branch. The paper with the two small pins reads: “In appreciation of your contribution to Toronto Public Library.”

The actual bronze griffin statues at the front door of the branch are among the most recognizable symbols of Toronto Public Library. 

● The lion griffin (east side) is named Judith, in honour of Judith Merril. Her donation of books in 1970 grew into our Merril Collection of Science Fiction, Speculation & Fantasy, housed on the branch’s 3rd floor.

● The eagle griffin (west side) is named Edgar, in honour of Edgar Osborne. His donation of books in 1949 grew into our Osborne Collection of Early Children’s Books, housed on the branch’s 4th floor.