The OISE Library Margo Sandor Children's Literature Collection

Collection Overview

The Margo Sandor Children’s Literature Collection (CLC) contains approximately 8,000 works of fiction, from big books and picture books to short story collections, poetry, fairy tales, graphic novels, and novels for young adults. Purchases for the CLC are made using an endowment fund created through a generous donation by Peter Sandor in 1997. Peter and his wife Margo immigrated to Canada in 1957 and Peter’s donation is in memory of Margo, who was a children’s librarian.

Scope

The CLC includes works of fiction appropriate for children and young adults, in kindergarten through grade 12. 

Collection strengths:

There is a focus on acquiring Canadian works, award and honour books, dual language books, dual format text / Braille books, books to support math literacy, Indigenous works, and books on themes including bullying, peacemaking, social justice, and multiculturalism.

Chronological Coverage:

Most materials in the collection have been published post World War II, though there are a number of older items of historical / research value in the collection. Currently, most works purchased are newly published (i.e. within the last 2 years). Older works are collected selectively.

Geographical Coverage:

An emphasis is placed on Canadian works, as well as U.S. and international award winners. Other works are collected selectively.

Language:

Most resources are published in English. French language materials are collected selectively. Dual language books (English and a second language) are collected selectively. 

Additional information

To learn more about the collection, please see Education: Children's Literature or contact Emily Hector: 416-978-7964; emily.hector@utoronto.ca