Ancaster Branch is closing early April 29 2025, due to a power outage. We aim to have it restored quickly.
The internet at Valley Park Branch is working intermittently. We apologize for the inconvenience.
Due to the ongoing roof repair project, noise and parking disruptions are expected to continue until the end of June. Thank you for your patience.
Extended Access at Freelton Branch is not working. We aim to fix it quickly. Apologies for the inconvenience.
From Monday, May 5 to Saturday, May 31, the Ancaster Branch will be temporarily closed due to a roof and HVAC replacement. During this time, service hours will be available at the Ancaster Rotary Centre, 385 Jerseyville Road West, Ancaster. The last day to pick up your Holds is Thursday, May 1st. Thank you for your understanding.
The digital microfilm machines at Central Library are not working. A single analog machine is available, but it doesn't print. We aim to have the digital devices repaired as soon as possible. We apologize for the inconvenience.
The first phase of renovations will begin at the Sherwood Branch from April 10 to May 2. During this time, noise disruptions may occur throughout the branch due to a basement renovation. Parking, access to the building, and collections will not be affected. Thank you for your patience. www.hpl.ca/sherwood
Please be aware of online phishing attempts impersonating Hamilton Public Library and Library Staff. HPL does not solicit paid freelance opportunities through social media or other messaging applications. HPL does not request personal or banking information through social media or require financial compensation when reviewing job applications. Please report phishing schemes to communications@hpl.ca. If you think you are a victim of fraud, please call the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501.
British Empire Games

The first British Empire Games, now called the Commonwealth Games, were held in Hamilton, Ontario, August 16th to 23rd, 1930. This was due to the vision of Melville Marks Robinson of the Hamilton Spectator, who conceived the idea in the spring of 1928. Mr. Robinson, with the support of his associates in the Hamilton Olympic Club, members of the Hamilton City Council and Parks Board, and some of the leading business men of Canada, was able to bring the Games to Hamilton.
The Games brought together the best athletes of the British Commonwealth. There were 400 competitors from 11 countries in the first games. Local History & Archives possesses a collection of images captured during this historic event, depicting the athletes in competition, celebrating victories, as well as the massive crowds in attendance and the ceremonial elements of the Games.