News and Updates

 

Project Update July 27, 2026

Construction at the temporary West Harbour Branch has finished and we have moved in! Library Staff have been hard at work shelving collections, arranging furniture and shelves, installing the network and setting up equipment. The space will feature a circular seating area inspired by the Anishinaabe teachings of the Medicine Wheel (more information about the Medicine Wheel can be found here). 

Over the next little while, Staff will put the finishing touches on the space and then we will be ready to open to the public.

There will be a special Indigenous-led opening celebration for the new Branch on Saturday, August 15 from 1pm – 4pm – all are welcome to attend. The event will feature ceremony, song, drumming, dance, cultural teachings and opening remarks as we celebrate this welcoming community space in the Northend Hamilton neighbourhood.

Project Update July 9, 2026

The Discovery Centre Study continues to make progress. Since launching in July 2025, the project team has completed Phase 1 Listening and Learning. Phase 2 is now well underway: the team has completed an analysis of comparable facilities, a Visitor Experience Strategy, and a Facilities Plan outlining the types of spaces the reimagined building will need. Work is now focused on a Schematic Design and Operating Plan, bringing the vision of a dynamic community space together. The study is expected to be completed in the fall of this year.

Project Update June 23, 2026

Construction is underway at the new West Harbour Branch, in anticipation of the mid-summer opening to the Hamilton community. Existing large-scale windows will help bring in natural sunlight, setting up the tone for a warm welcome. 

Light demolition work is planned to turn the former restaurant space into an Indigenous-focused HPL Branch. It will include a Children's area, collections with a focus on Indigenous works, public computers, program space and art and exhibits that share stories of the Indigenous community. Members will soon be able to sit, read and enjoy the view of the water. 

Stay tuned to our website and social media channels for its opening date and official grand opening festivities.

 

Hamilton Public Library, in partnership with the City of Hamilton, has announced a temporary West Harbour Branch at the former Canadian Marine Discovery Centre.

Expected to open in summer 2026, the Branch will offer library services, programs and an Indigenous-focused collection while the Discovery Centre Study continues to guide the long-term vision for the site.

Read the full news release for more details.

Project Update March 16, 2026

The Discovery Centre Study is advancing through extensive engagement with Indigenous communities, local partners, and the broader public to shape a welcoming place that reflects Hamilton’s diverse stories and cultural priorities. Current work is focused on understanding what the community wants to experience in the space, while developing the visitor experience, facility planning, and long‑term operating strategies. The project remains on track, with findings from public input directly informing the final concept that will guide how the new space could serve residents and visitors alike.

Project Update January 5, 2026

Hamilton residents and members of Six Nations of the Grand River and Mississaugas of the Credit are invited to participate in a Discovery Centre survey from January 5 to 23, 2026, to share ideas and feedback on the revamped facility. The survey can be completed online, and paper copies are available at all HPL Branches and Bookmobile visits and must be returned on or before January 23.

Project Update September 23, 2025

After a competitive process for a Study consultant, Lord Cultural Resources has been chosen to lead the Discovery Centre Program Design and Development Study. The Study will guide the future use and design of the building and help shape the next phase of planning and engagement. 

The project is guided by a Steering Committee and Working Group, established in 2024, with representatives from the Indigenous community, the City’s Indigenous Relations staff, and Hamilton Public Library staff. These groups will continue to support the process alongside the consultant team. The Study is expected to begin Fall 2025 and results presented to Council in 2027.  

 

The Study RFP evaluation team concluded their review of proposals in late April, 2025. We will have a formal announcement this summer or early fall to share the exciting next steps as we move into a year of public engagement. A completed Study will be ready for Council review in 2027.