Terryberry and Westdale Branches
Renovations at both the Terryberry and Westdale Branches are wrapping up. Both locations are expected to reopen in mid-July. Please stay tuned to our website and social media channels for updates. Thank you for your patience.
The Accessible Washroom at the Binbrook Branch is temporarily unavailable.
Please be advised that the Accessible Washroom in the Binbrook Branch is currently out of order. There is no estimate when the issue will be resolved at this time. We apologize for the inconvenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Last Updated: April 27, 2022.
Jump to:
Are Hours Changing at HPL Branches?
Yes. Hours are gradually expanding. We’re open Monday-Saturday now. Please check hpl.ca/hours for up-to-date schedules.
Services
Can I use a computer?
Yes. Computer use is first-come, first-served for up to three hours. Computers are available when the branch opens until 15 minutes before it closes. Check branch hours. All computer users need a library card.
Can I get help with my tech devices?
Yes. Book an Appointment online and HPL Staff can help you via email or on the phone.
Can I use the Wi-Fi?
Wi-Fi is available during open hours and outside the branch 24/7. For your safety, please maintain physical distancing.
Is the Visiting Library Service running?
Yes. But it has a new name. Visiting Library Service is now called Home Library Service. Read more information about the Home Library Service.
Is the Bookmobile on the road?
Yes. Bookmobile schedules are listed at hpl.ca/bookmobile.
Is Local History & Archives open?
Yes. As of April 27, in-person visits are now available. If you require assistance, please contact our Staff at 905-546-3200 or visit lha.hpl.ca
Are Makerspaces open?
Yes. For details about available equipment, booking time and project pick up options go to hpl.ca/makerspaces.
Contact Makerspace Staff at 905-546-3200 x3406 or email your questions to dml@hpl.ca.
Is HPL offering programs?
Starting May 2022, limited in-person programming resumes. Some HPL and partner-led programs continue to be offered virtually. Visit hpl.ca/events for full event listings.
Is in-person tutoring permitted in branch?
Yes. Library visitors may use the space for tutoring or quiet study while observing all health and safety protocols currently in place (in accordance with Regulation 364).
Are room rentals available?
No. This service is likely to return in Fall 2022.
Is food and drink permitted?
Visitors can consume covered drinks and snacks while at a branch. However, to keep our spaces tidy, hot meals (e.g. burger, fries, pizza, etc.) are not permitted.
Can I suggest a Book Club Kit title for HPL’s collection?
Yes. Suggestions are welcome however not all of them are selected.
Print / Copy / Scan
Can I print remotely and pick up at a branch?
Yes. You can use our wireless printing service, Print on the Go. Submit your print job online, receive confirmation and go to any branch to release and pick up your print. Bring your library card. Here’s a Quick Steps instruction sheet to help you use our Print on the Go service.
Can I print, photocopy or scan at a branch?
Yes.
Borrowing
Can I place holds?
Yes. Visit hpl.ca to browse titles and put items on hold. You will need a library card to do this.
When can I pick up my holds?
When you receive a notice from HPL that your holds are ready, visit the branch and staff will direct you.
How long can I borrow physical library materials, eBooks and eAudiobooks?
You have 21 days to enjoy your physical items and can choose to borrow eBooks and eAudiobooks for 7, 14 or 21 days, through OverDrive.
Do I need to bring back my library items?
Yes. Please return all library materials on the due date or when they are no longer renewable. As of March 1, 2022, members will have a block-to-more-borrowing placed on their library account for overdue materials not returned. Materials can be returned into any of the drop boxes at HPL’s 23 branches.
Are there fines for overdue materials?
HPL permanently eliminated fines on all materials. As of March 1, 2022, Members with overdue materials face blocks to more borrowing. This block is removed when overdue materials are returned. More information is on Service Fees.
What options do I have if the item I'm looking for is not in the catalogue?
Please check out HPL's online collections of Read. Watch. Listen. Learn options.
HPL cardholders can also borrow materials from Burlington Public Library. Read more about this partnership at hpl.ca/Borrow-Around-the-Bay.
Also, through OverDrive HPL cardholders can access eBooks and eAudiobooks at Burlington, Ottawa, London and Mississauga libraries. Read more information about this partnership at hpl.ca/More-to-Borrow. You can also request an item through the Interlibrary Loan service.
What if I don’t have a library card?
You have three options: register for a library card by calling 905-546-3200, get an eCard online at hpl.ca/online-register. You can also come into any branch to register for a physical library card. All library cards can be used to borrow physical items or access a large collection of digital content on hpl.ca/online.
Does my library card work online?
Yes. HPL has all you need to keep you informed and entertained. Use your card or Register online for a card to borrow physical items and to access movies, music, newspapers, magazines, e-learning and more, all for free.
Safety
Can I come into a branch without a mask?
Yes. In alignment with Provincial recommendations, the City of Hamilton has repealed Hamilton’s Face Coverings and Masks By-Law effective as of March 21, 2022.
Where can I find more information about COVID-19 vaccines?
Please visit the City of Hamilton’s COVID-19 Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions page to learn more. Updates about mobile clinics in the City are also posted on our site at hpl.ca/book-your-shot.
I have more questions. Who can answer them?
Email askus@hpl.ca, call 905-546-3200 or chat at hpl.ca.
