Library Questions

During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Is the library open?
HPL branches currently offer On Demand Takeout only (no appointment necessary). Pick up holds, Print on the Go, Makerspace projects and Grab and Go bags Tuesday-Friday 10am-6pm, Saturday 10am-5pm. (Note: All HPL branches are closed Sunday and Monday beginning Jan. 25.) Requests for library materials can be made on site. HPL Staff will retrieve all items for you. Access to public computers and washrooms is not available.

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 pick up. Bring your library card or library card number. Staff will retrieve it for you when you arrive at the branch. Here’s a Quick Steps instruction sheet to help you use our Print on the Go service.

Reminder:
Your document is handled using appropriate hand hygiene and health and safety measures. Please note: scanning and printing is done using a shared public printer. As an additional safety precaution, you may want to quarantine your documents for 72 hours upon arriving home.

Can I photocopy/scan at a branch?
Yes. Bring your items to any branch and staff will take the documents to be photocopied or scanned into the branch and bring them back to you as you wait. Rest assured, Staff wear appropriate PPE and sanitize their hands in the retrieval and return process.

Are Makerspaces open?
No. But you can submit your projects online and we’ll get it ready for you to pick up. Beginning Monday January 11, there are four branches where you can pick up 3D print projects: Central, Red Hill, Terryberry or Turner Park. Just choose your branch when you submit your project. All other Makerspace materials (vinyl, posters, buttons) can only be picked up at Central Library. Please inform Staff you are attending to pick up a Makerspace Takeout request.

How do I get library materials?

Check in with the Greeter and show your library card or provide your name and phone number. HPL Staff will retrieve holds, print jobs, Makerspace projects and any requested library materials. 

What if I don’t have a library card?

You may enter a HPL branch to register for a library card. Or go online at hpl.ca/online-register to get an eCard. These can be used to borrow physical items during the Provinicial Shutdown.

Can I come into a branch without a mask if I am medically exempt? 
As of Dec 7, 2020, anyone entering HPL branches must wear a mask or face shield. For Members who are medically exempt (according to the City by-law) Staff will offer a sanitized face shield to be worn. If Members choose to refuse the face shield, they can’t enter a branch. Members may request their holds be brought to them outside. Hamilton Public Library is committed to reducing the spread of COVID -19 in our community. 

Does my library card work online? 
Yes. HPL has all you need to keep you informed and entertained. Register for a card to access movies, music, newspapers, magazines, e-learning and more, all for free. 

Can I use a computer? 
No. During the provincial shutdown there is no access to computers.

Can I get help with my tech devices?

Yes. Book an Appointment online and HPL Staff can help you virtually via email or on the phone.

Can I use the WiFi?
Outdoor use of WiFi is available 24/7 as long as physical distancing is maintained.

What is the safety protocol for libraries?
HPL follows the province’s COVID-19 safety plan.  

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. Return all library materials into any of the drop boxes at HPL’s 22 branches. 

Will I be fined for overdue materials? 
HPL is permanently eliminating fines and fees on children’s and youth materials and waiving fines for everyone else until December 31, 2021. More information is on our FAQ page. 

Can I place holds? 
Yes. Visit hpl.ca to browse titles and put items on hold. When you receive a phone call or email from HPL indicating they’re ready, pick them up at your selected branch. No appointment necessary. Staff will retrieve your holds.

How many library materials can I place on hold?
You may place up to 50 holds at any one time. Magazines and Reference materials are not eligible for holds at this time. Please place holds through the online catalogue

What options do I have if the item I'm looking for is not in the catalogue?
Please checkout HPL's online collections of Read, Watch and Listen options.

When can I pick up my holds? 
When you receive a notice from HPL that your holds are ready, pick them up at your selected branch. No appointment necessary. Staff will retrieve your holds. 

I returned my library materials, but they still appear as overdue on my account. 
Rest assured HPL received your items but items are quarantined for three days. Thank you for your patience. 

Is HPL offering programs? 
All HPL and partner-led programs are virtual. Go to hpl.ca/events for more information. 

How long can I borrow physical library materials? 
You have 28 days to enjoy your items. 

How long can I borrow an eBook/eAudiobook?
HPL has more than 100,000 eBook and eAudiobook titles to borrow for 7, 14 or 21 days through OverDrive.

Is the Visiting Library Service running? 
Yes. In a modified way. Read more information about the Visiting Library Service. 

Is the Bookmobile on the road? 
Yes. Please check the Bookmobile page for more information about the hours and stops and how you can pick up your holds and drop off your returns. 

Is Local History & Archives open? 
No. It is currently closed, due to health precautions. Staff are available to answer questions. Email askus@hpl.ca or call 905-546-3200 or chat at hpl.ca.  

I have more questions. Who can answer them? 
Email askhpl@hpl.ca, call 905.546.3200 or chat at hpl.ca.