The computer lab on the 1st floor is currently out of order. There are limited public computers available on the 2nd floor. Printing and photocopying are still available. We apologize for the inconvenience.
The accessible washroom at Carlisle Branch is not working. We aim to get it fixed quickly.
Due to day-long IT maintenance (7am-5pm), the following branches are closed on Sunday, June 22: Central Library, Dundas, Red Hill, Terryberry, Turner Park, Valley Park and Waterdown. Sunday service hours resume on Sunday, June 29.
Please note that the HPL catalogue, Library accounts, and online resources will not be available during this time frame. We apologize for the inconvenience.
Due to Staff training, the Westdale Branch will open at 10am on Monday, June 16. You may visit Central Library and the Dundas Branch as your next nearest locations for your library needs. Thank you for your patience.
The parking lot elevator at Terryberry Branch is not working. Members will need to use the accessible ramp at the Mohawk entrance and the inner elevator. We're working to get it fixed quickly.
Please note that the audio volume levels on our public computers are having issues. The estimated time of disruption is unknown at this time. Thank you for your patience.
The accessibility ramp at Mount Hope Branch is damaged. The handrail is not available. The ramp will not be available while being repaired. We aim to fix it quickly.
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.
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.
Total Solar Eclipse April 8
The Countdown is Totality On
The Solar Eclipse has come and gone!
If you would like to donate your ISO safety solar eclipse glasses, return them to any HPL Branch or Bookmobile visit. HPL and McMaster University have teamed up with the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada - Hamilton Centre to collect and redistribute. Thank you for returning your glasses.
Get Equipped for the Eclipse – Safety Glasses - Out of Stock!
You should never look at the sun without proper protection. During most of the total solar eclipse, you should only look directly at the Sun if you are using protective eyewear.
HPL no longer has solar glasses. More than 80,000 were distributed to the public. You may be able to pick up a pair at Haldimand Public Library branches, McMaster University, Six Nations Public Library.
Safe Solar Eclipse Viewing
A solar eclipse occurs when the moon partially or totally covers the Sun. It is fascinating, but it is important to guard against damage to your eyes. Follow these options for safe viewing.
Safety First
Use approved solar eclipse viewers that meet international standard ISO 12312-2. Glasses distributed by Hamilton Public Library are provided by McMaster University and meet these standards. Make sure the glasses are not damaged or scratched before use. Sunglasses, even those with a very dark tint, are NOT sufficient protection.
Watch Online
Watch an online livestream of the event from a verified source such as NASA Live. Alternatively, check out a recording of the eclipse after it has happened.
For more information visit 2023 Eclipse.
Frequently Asked Questions
The eclipse will begin in downtown Hamilton around 2:03 p.m., totality will be around 3:18 p.m. and will last 1 minute and 50 seconds, the eclipse will end around 4:31 p.m. For the exact time at your location visit 2024 Eclipse Simulator
No, Hamilton is on the edge of the totality path, so some areas will not be in totality. These areas will still experience an eclipse, but the sun will not be totally blocked out. To see if your location is in totality and for the exact time at your location visit 2024 Eclipse Simulator .
The path of totality is where observers will see the Moon completely cover the Sun.
In the path of totality, where the Moon completely covers the Sun, the sky will become dark, as if it were dawn or dusk. For those who only experience a partial solar eclipse, the sky will appear slightly darker than it was before the eclipse, depending on how much the Moon blocks the Sun in their location.
You can expect the temperature to drop about 5 degrees Celsius, depending on the humidity and cloud cover at your location.
Space Reads for Earthlings
Browse a celestial selection of books about solar eclipses, the stars and the universe.
Far Out Science and Space-Themed Programs
Become one with the night sky inside the McMaster portable planetarium, learn about Stars, Planets and More with the Hamilton Amateur Astronomers Club and take part in a Solar Eclipse themed STEAM Learning Lab. April 8 is also your headquarters for PA Day fun, with morning programming for kids of all ages.
Countdown Until Solar Eclipse: