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.
Public Computers - Audio Volume
All Branches and Bookmobile Stops
Published:
Thursday, May 29, 2025 - 4:00pm
Barton Branch Accessibile Washroom Out of Order
The accessible washroom at Barton Branch is not working. We aim to get it fixed quickly.
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Published:
Thursday, May 29, 2025 - 11:15am
Sherwood Branch - Temporary Closure
As the 1st floor renovation wraps up, the Sherwood Branch will be closed on Thursday, June 5, to reset the spaces. Service hours will resume on Friday, June 6. Thank you for your patience.
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Published:
Thursday, May 29, 2025 - 11:00am
Concession Branch's Children's Department Closure for Repair
Concession Branch's children's department will be closed on the morning of Monday, June 2nd for minor repairs. We apologize for the inconvenience.
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Published:
Monday, May 26, 2025 - 2:15pm
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
All Branches Closed - May 30, Staff Professional Development
All HPL Branches are closed on Friday May 30 for Staff Development. Bookmobile is off the road and Extended Access is not available. HPL's online card registration, catalogue and eResources are not available until 5pm due to scheduled maintenance. All branches reopen Saturday May 31.
All Branches and Bookmobile Stops
Published:
Monday, May 12, 2025 - 8:00am
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.
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Published:
Monday, April 28, 2025 - 10:00am
Ancaster Branch - Temporary Relocation in May
Until Saturday May 31, the Ancaster Branch is temporarily relocated to the Ancaster Rotary Centre, 385 Jerseyville Road West, Ancaster. The Wilson Street branch is closed for a roof and HVAC replacement and is expected to reopen on Monday June 2 at 9am.
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Published:
Wednesday, April 16, 2025 - 11:00am
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
Join an HPL Book Club or Create One
If you’re looking to discuss the last book you read and always on the lookout for the next great read, join a HPL Book Club, or create your own club.
HPL offers many Book Clubs that feature fiction, non-fiction, romance, and French Check out our virtual clubs hpl.ca or join an in-person book club at a branch.
If you are keen to create a club with fellow book lovers, HPL has more than 350 titles to choose from in the Book Club Kit collection. Each kit has 10-12 books of the same title, along with a discussion guide, author bio and reviews — all contained in a large bag.
To borrow a kit, you need a valid HPL library card. Then, browse the collection, place holds or pause the kit for pick up at a later date. Kits can also be renewed, if no other book club is waiting for it.
Join a book club by signing up online at hpl.ca, or place a hold on a Book Club Kit.
Have more questions? Read through the Book Club Kit FAQ below.
Book Club FAQ
What is a Book Club Kit?
A Book Club Kit contains 10-12 copies of one title. When possible, it includes 10 standard copies and two large print copies. The kit also contains discussion questions, reviews, a sign-out sheet and an author biography.
Who can borrow Book Club Kits?
Anyone with a valid HPL card. Need one? Head to any HPL branch to sign up for a card. Bring two pieces of identification: one with your photo and one with your current address.
Can I still use my Book Club Kit HPL card?
Yes. But new Book Club Kit cards are no longer created, as all Members can place holds on any items in the catalogue with their personal HPL card.
Can Book Club Kits be reserved in advance?
Yes. You can browse the kits from our library catalogue and titles can be paused for a later date. Titles cannot be reserved for a specific date. Branch staff can help you place holds on Kits. Contact HPL at 905-546-3200, email askus@hpl.ca or chat at hpl.ca.
How many Book Club Kits can I put on hold?
You can place holds on up to 50 Kits. Book Clubs are encouraged to use Pause Holds to manage their Kits. You can see where you are in the holds queue to determine when your Kit may become available.
Where can Book Club Kits be picked up?
Kits can be picked up at any of our 23 branches.
How long can book clubs keep a Kit?
They can be borrowed for six weeks. Kits can be renewed if there are no other clubs waiting for the title. No fines are charged so you can hold on to your kit a few days longer if needed.
Can Book Club Kits be renewed?
Yes. Book Club Kits can be renewed if there are no other clubs waiting for the title. No fines are charges if you need to hold on to the Kit a little longer.
How many kits does HPL have?
HPL has over 350 kits.
How are Book Club Kits selected?
HPL’s Collection librarians carefully choose titles for purchase. They take into consideration reviews and current events when purchasing Kits.
Can I suggest a Book Club Kit title for HPL’s collection?
Suggestions are accepted here, and are considered alongside new, high-demand and timely titles. Not all suggestions are selected for purchase.
What if I return a copy damaged or lose my Kit?
Fines are not charged. Please let HPL Staff know if a copy is damaged or lost.
