Layton’s books to rest at Ryerson University

The family of Jack Layton, the late New Democrat leader, has donated his book collection to Ryerson University. The donation was announced by President Sheldon Levy at the Ryerson Senate meeting on Oct. 4, reports The Eyeopener. Levy said the University is still in the “thinking stages” as to what to do with the books. Renaming or appointing a Chair position to honour Layton is also being considered.

Layton began lecturing in the politics department at Ryerson in 1974. He stopped teaching after joining Toronto City Council in 1982. He earned an MA (’71) and a PhD (’84), both from York University.

On May 2, Layton led the New Democrats to new heights, winning 103 ridings out of 308 total to become the official opposition for the first time. He died of cancer on Aug. 22 at the age of 61 and was honoured with a state funeral.