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.
Sherwood Branch - Public Computers
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Published:
Wednesday, June 11, 2025 - 11:00am
Carlisle Branch Accessibile Washroom Out of Order
The accessible washroom at Carlisle Branch is not working. We aim to get it fixed quickly.
1
Published:
Tuesday, June 10, 2025 - 12:00pm
Sunday Hours - Modified Service, June 22
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.
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Published:
Wednesday, June 4, 2025 - 3:00pm
Westdale Branch - Delayed Opening
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.
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Published:
Tuesday, June 3, 2025 - 2:15pm
Terryberry Branch Elevator Out of Order
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.
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Published:
Saturday, May 31, 2025 - 1:00pm
Public Computers - Audio Volume
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.
All Branches and Bookmobile Stops
Published:
Thursday, May 29, 2025 - 4:00pm
Mount Hope Branch Accessibile Ramp Not Available
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.
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Published:
Friday, May 23, 2025 - 4:30pm
Turner Park Branch - Roof Repair
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.
1
Published:
Monday, April 28, 2025 - 10:00am
Central Library - Microfilm Machine
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.
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Published:
Thursday, April 10, 2025 - 3:30pm
Phishing Scheme
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.
All Branches and Bookmobile Stops
Published:
Thursday, April 3, 2025 - 10:30am
Researchers at HPL
Hamilton Public Library is committed to supporting and collaborating on research that aligns with our mission to enhance community knowledge, inform public policy and improve Library services. Through partnerships with researchers, universities and other organizations, we aim to foster impactful and equitable research initiatives that benefit both the Library and the broader Hamilton community.
We welcome research proposals from academic and community-based researchers who are interested in working with HPL. Please review the How to Submit a Research Proposal below to learn more.
Research Partnership Opportunities
HPL partners with McMaster University's Community Research Platform (CRP) to align Hamilton-focused research opportunities with the Library's strategic priorities. The CRP only works with individuals affiliated with and conducting research at McMaster University.
If you are a McMaster-based researcher, you are required to follow the process outlined in the Research Partnership Guidelines listed below.
Please contact the CRP Program Manager to determine if your study is a fit for the Community Research Platform.
How to Submit a Research Proposal
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Review the HPL Research Guidelines – Before submitting a request, please read our Research Partnership Guidelines to understand our processes, expectations and focus areas.
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Complete the Research Request Form – All researchers external to McMaster University must fill out the HPL Research Request Form with details about your project, including objectives, required HPL involvement, ethical considerations and expected outcomes.
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Submit Your Proposal – Submit your completed form. Our team will review your proposal and assess its alignment with HPL’s strategic priorities and capacity.
Important Considerations
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Limited Capacity for Research Requests: Due to the high volume of research requests, HPL will contact you only if there is interest in participating in your research. The estimated timeline for this is up to four weeks.
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No Guarantee of Future Approvals: Approval of a past research proposal does not guarantee future approvals or ongoing research collaborations. Each submission is assessed independently, based on current priorities and the availability of resources.
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Ethical Compliance: All research involving human participants must receive approval from a recognized Research Ethics Board (REB) before the data collection commences.
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Public Knowledge Sharing: Whenever possible, we encourage researchers to share their findings through public engagement activities at HPL, such as workshops or presentations. Accessible research summaries are required and researchers will be provided with a template.
Past Research Projects
HPL has collaborated on numerous research projects that enhance public library services, community engagement and knowledge-sharing. These projects demonstrate our commitment to cultivating meaningful partnerships and supporting research that benefits HPL and the community.
Recent Projects:
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Aging in Place with Public Libraries: This project examined how public libraries can help older adults maintain their independence and quality of life within their communities.
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Social Work in Libraries: This research explored the integration of social work services within the Library to better support the diverse needs of Members.
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Promoting Digital Literacy Through Public Libraries: This project focused on developing programs to improve digital literacy among community Members, ensuring equitable access to technology and information.
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Hamilton Street Railway (HSR) and Hamilton Public Library PRESTO Card Pilot Evaluation: This evaluation assessed the effectiveness of a pilot program integrating public transit access with Library services to enhance community mobility.
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Hamilton Public Library Food Security Project: This initiative addressed food insecurity by leveraging Library resources and community partnerships to provide accessible food options to vulnerable populations.
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Emotional Labour in Libraries: Stressors in the Library Work Field: This study explored the emotional challenges faced by Library Staff and aimed to develop strategies to improve well-being in the workplace.
