Back Online! The Toronto Library’s Triumph Over Ransomware

Dear Readers,

Today, I deviate from my usual legal musings to address a matter of utmost importance—one that strikes at the heart of our shared intellectual sanctuary: the library. As you may have heard, our beloved Toronto Public Library recently faced a cyber onslaught. On October 26, 2023, the Toronto Library’s online systems were held hostage, encrypted by digital bandits demanding a ransom. Accounts were frozen, searches thwarted, and holds suspended—the very essence of our library experience compromised.

The Importance of Libraries

In a world awash with misinformation, libraries remain steadfast in their commitment to truth. They are the guardians of knowledge. When algorithms peddle half-truths, bad actors sow discord, and echo chambers amplify biases, weaponizing misinformation to undermine trust, libraries stand firm. They are not mere repositories of books; they are the beating hearts of democracy. They invite us to explore, question, and discern.

The Phoenix Rises

Today is a day for celebration. Our online accounts, searches, and cherished holds are back online. The library, like a phoenix, emerges from the ashes of cyber chaos.

As we embrace normalcy, let’s recognize the library staff’s unwavering efforts to restore services.

In the spirit of resilience, let us reaffirm the library’s role as a beacon of light. For in these uncertain times, when truth is our compass, libraries remain our North Star.

With gratitude,

-Chad

Toronto Public Library