Frequently Asked Questions

Last Updated: September 15, 2022.

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. Computers in Makerspaces shut down 30 minutes before closing. 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.

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.

Can I visit the Bookmobile?
Yes. And there are more sites throughout the region. Specific days and times for each location are listed at hpl.ca/bookmobile.

Is Local History & Archives open?
Yes. Head to the 3rd Floor of Central Library, (55 York Blvd.) to access in-person all the fascinating resources housed. If you require assistance, please contact our Staff at 905-546-3200 or visit lha.hpl.ca.

Are Makerspaces open?
Yes. More branches offer more high-tech equipment. For details about available equipment, booking time and project pick-up options (only available for 3D printing and laser cutting) go to hpl.ca/makerspaces.

Contact Makerspace Staff at 905-546-3200 x3406 or email your questions to dml@hpl.ca.

Are in-person programs offered?
Yes. In-person programs are back, as well as virtual programs and events. Visit hpl.ca/events for full event listings.

Is in-person tutoring permitted in branches?
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?
Not yet. This service is likely to return in the New Year. Please check hpl.ca for updates.

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 find the dedicated holds section. Staff can help too.

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. Members with unreturned overdue items will have a block-to-more-borrowing placed on their library account. Materials can be returned to 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 card online at hpl.ca/online-register or by calling 905-546-3200. You can also visit 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.