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 

1. Review the HPL Research Guidelines – Before submitting a request, please read our Research Partnership Guidelines to understand our processes, expectations and focus areas. 

2. 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. 

3. 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 

• 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. 

• 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. 

• Ethical Compliance: All research involving human participants must receive approval from a recognized Research Ethics Board (REB) before the data collection commences. 

• 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: 

• 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.​  

• Social Work in Libraries: This research explored the integration of social work services within the Library to better support the diverse needs of Members.​  

• Evaluation of the Social Work Program at Hamilton Public Library: This research evaluated Hamilton Public Library’s on-site social work program to understand how integrating social work services within the library supports vulnerable community members, staff, and inclusive community wellbeing.

• 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.​  

• 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.​  

• 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.​  

• 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.​  

• Storytime On Wheels: Developing Inclusive & Culturally Relevant Mobile Outreach Model For Hamilton Public Library: This project examined how mobile library Storytime programs can expand inclusive early learning and physical literacy opportunities for underrepresented preschool children and families in diverse communities.