Extended Access at the Freelton Branch is not working. Please visit during staffed hours. We aim to fix it quickly. Apologies for the inconvenience.
The accessibility door at Carlisle Branch is not working. We aim to fix it quickly.
Study Halls at Central Library, Dundas, Red Hill, Terryberry, Turner Park and Waterdown branches are open Thursday May 22, 8pm-Midnight. The planned Thursday closure for maintenance is cancelled.
On Thursday, May 15, the library reopens with normal hours but with the following service limitations:
- 1st Floor is closed to the public
- Limited browsing collections of Express Adult Fic and Express DVDs are available on the 2nd Floor
- Holds pickup is available on the 2nd Floor
- Reduced number of public computers on 2nd Floor
- Printing and copying available on 2nd Floor
- Seating capacity is reduced
- All 2nd Floor collections (teen, children, and graphic novels) are available
- Parking, washroom and elevator access are not affected
Please refer to hpl.ca/events for up-to-date program listings. Most programs will continue as normal on the 2nd Floor or in the basement.
All HPL Branches are closed on Friday May 30 for Staff Development. Bookmobile is off the road and Extended Access is not available. HPL's online card registration, catalogue and eResources are not available until 5pm due to scheduled maintenance. All branches reopen Saturday May 31.
The Friday May 30 Bookmobile visits to Huntington Park, Winona and Maplewood Avenue are cancelled.
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.
Until Saturday May 31, the Ancaster Branch is temporarily relocated to the Ancaster Rotary Centre, 385 Jerseyville Road West, Ancaster. The Wilson Street branch is closed for a roof and HVAC replacement.
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.
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.
Discovery Centre
Project Update February 14, 2025
The Study RFP closed Wednesday February 12. The evaluation team will begin review. Updates will be posted on City of Hamilton Bids and Tenders website.
Contract # C8-02-24
City of Hamilton Bid Opportunity: hamilton.bidsandtenders.ca
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, Hamilton (formally 57 Discovery Drive) 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, Hamilton (formally 57 Discovery Drive)) as part of the City of Hamilton’s West Harbour Project.
The Discovery Centre would feature:
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A gathering place defined, led and staffed by local Indigenous peoples.
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A modern Library Branch with a full range of services.
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A showcase for captivating cultural heritage-based experiences and exhibitions.
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Shared spaces that create a welcoming, accessible building.
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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:
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A free, open and vibrant space that welcomes residents and visitors from all ages and backgrounds
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An accessible space that keeps its doors open all week and all year long
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Engaging for residents of both new and existing North-end neighbours
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A place that helps us understand our individual and collective heritage
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A gathering place, where everyone comes together to learn each other’s past, present and future stories
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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.
Last updated December 2024