Project Update December 20, 2024

Proposal for Consultant Required for the Discovery Centre Program Design and Development Study for the Hamilton Public Library Board

Hamilton Public Library (HPL) is exploring the redevelopment of the former Canadian Marine Discovery Centre through the creation of a new library branch, Indigenous gathering space, cultural heritage exhibition space, café, and visitor amenities. This future multi-role facility will be located in the previously purpose-built Parks Canada interpretation centre, 77 Harbourside Way at Hamilton’s Pier 8. 

HPL offers a bid opportunity for a Discovery Centre Program Design and Development Study. The Study will inform the repurposing of the building as part of the West Harbour and waterfront redevelopment. 

Contract # C8-02-24
City of Hamilton Bid Opportunity: hamilton.bidsandtenders.ca 

Envisioning the New Discovery Centre 

Hamilton Public Library (HPL) is embarking on an exciting Program Design and Development Study to test the feasibility of a new Discovery Centre (77 Harbourside Way) as part of the City of Hamilton’s West Harbour Project. 

The Discovery Centre would feature: 

• A gathering place defined, led and staffed by local Indigenous peoples. 

• A modern Library Branch with a full range of services. 

• A showcase for captivating cultural heritage-based experiences and exhibitions. 

• Shared spaces that create a welcoming, accessible building. 

• A relaxing café to connect with friends, neighbours and colleagues. 

HPL has identified one overarching goal for the site – the opportunity to advance social cohesion within the community by deliberately creating spaces, programs and services that attract people of all ages, cultures and economic backgrounds. 

To learn more about this exciting initiative and to hear about opportunities to provide feedback and support, please sign up for project email updates:  

Click this link to opt-in to receive future Discovery Centre Project and Study updates. 

Contact Us to share what you like about the concept, any questions or considerations.

A successful Hamilton Discovery Centre will be:   

• A free, open and vibrant space that welcomes residents and visitors from all ages and backgrounds 

• An accessible space that keeps its doors open all week and all year long  

• Engaging for residents of both new and existing North-end neighbours  

• A place that helps us understand our individual and collective heritage  

• A gathering place, where everyone comes together to learn each other’s past, present and future stories 

• Revitalized and animated with activity – inside and outside  

Significant engagement with members of the Indigenous community and consultation with the public is part of the work ahead. 

As HPL develops the core elements of the Program Design and Development Study, we will gather input from interested parties and include regular community consultation and updates. We aim to select a consultant to begin work in summer 2025, with a completed Study ready for Council review in 2027.  

Visit our outreach team at the following events: 

• Open Streets Sunday May 26th 10am to 2pm

• Open Streets Sunday June 23rd 10am to 2pm 

Last updated December 2024