Frequently Asked Questions
Last Updated: March 18, 2024.
What happened to some City of Hamilton and Hamilton Public Library services?
The City of Hamilton experienced a cybersecurity incident. To learn more, visit https://www.hamilton.ca/cyberincident. To learn how this impacts Library services, read below.
Good news, HPL Members: Access to Libby, OverDrive and most online resources (Kanopy, Hoopla, etc.) are available. Enter your HPL library card number; no PIN is required.
HPL Members do not have access to partner libraries' (Burlington, London, Kingston, Mississauga and Ottawa) digital collections at this time.
Some of HPL's services and programs continue to be impacted by the cybersecurity incident with the City of Hamilton. Check back often for updates.
Thank you for your patience.
I have questions. Who can answer them?
Email askus@hpl.ca, call 289-779-7588 or chat at hpl.ca.
Jump to:
Borrowing
Can I place holds?
No. Not yet. We’re working on getting our catalogue back in action soon. Visit hpl.ca to browse titles.
When can I pick up my holds?
We’re not able to organize holds yet until our catalogue is working again. Please come to the branch and Staff will help you find your library materials.
How long can I borrow physical library materials, eBooks and eAudiobooks?
You have 21 days to enjoy your physical items.
Should I bring back my overdue materials now?
Yes, please. We now have a process to check in items. Bring back your items so others can enjoy them too.
Are there fines for overdue materials?
HPL permanently eliminated fines on all materials as of March 1, 2022.
Does my library card work online?
Some eResources are available without a library card. Visit HPL online and call 289-779-7588, email askus@hpl.ca, or chat with Staff.
Services
Are branches open?
Yes, branches are open hpl.ca/hours. Study Halls are available. Extended Access is cancelled.
Which branches are open on Sundays?
Central Library is open Sunday from Noon-5pm and the Dundas, Red Hill, Terryberry, Turner Park, Valley Park and Waterdown Branches are open 1-5pm. Please check hpl.ca/hours for up-to-date schedules.
Can I visit the Bookmobile?
Yes. And there are more sites throughout the region. Specific days and times for each location are listed at hpl.ca/bookmobile.
Can I use a computer?
No. Currently, our public computers are not available. We’re working on a solution to have them back in action as quickly as possible
Can I get help with my tech devices?
Sorry. Not right now. We’re working on restoring our computer systems to bring back this program.
Can I use the Wi-Fi?
Members can access HPL’s Wi-Fi service at all branches except Ancaster, Carlisle and Valley Park branches. Please be patient as service may be interrupted while our team works to ensure stable connectivity across all branches.
Is Local History and Archives open?
Central Library's LHA 3rd Floor in-person reading room is open and Staff is available. In-room reference material, microfilm and other in-person services are available. Online image searching is not available.
Are Makerspaces open?
Select Makerspace equipment is available starting March 5, 2024. The Waterdown Branch Makerspace remains closed. The photo/video, sound studio, and gamespace is open at Central library on a first-come, first-serve basis. Visit HPL online and call 289-779-7588, email askus@hpl.ca, or chat with library staff with any questions.
Are in-person programs offered?
Most programs are running. Virtual programs are not available. Visit hpl.ca/events for up-to-date information.
Are room rentals available?
Not yet. This service is expected to return in January 2025. Please check hpl.ca for updates.
Is food and drink permitted?
Visitors can consume covered drinks and snacks while at a branch. However, to keep our spaces tidy, hot meals (burgers, fries, pizza, etc.) are not permitted.
Can I suggest a Book Club Kit title for HPL’s collection?
We are not able to accept suggestions at this time. However, Book Clubs are still circulating.
Is the Home Library Service running?
Yes. Read more information about the Home Library Service.
Can I use my HPL card at other library systems?
Please check with our neighbouring library systems (Burlington, Kingston, London, Mississauga and Ottawa). Other systems may have different services and policies.
Can I make a request for an interlibrary loan?
New ILLO requests can’t be fulfilled at this time.
Print / Copy / Scan / Laminate
Can I print remotely and pick up at a branch?
No. Sorry. The network outage prevents us from offering this service for now.
Can I print, photocopy or scan at a branch?
No. We hope to get this service back up soon.