The entrance to the Barton Branch parking lot off of Milton St. is currently inaccessible due to construction. The parking lot can still be accessed via the alley off Fullerton St. during this time.
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.
Due to Driver availability, Bookmobile has the following schedule modifications for the month of June. We apologize for the inconvenience.
Bookmobile Service June Modifications
Friday, June 19:
- Six Nations Public Library - Cancelled
- Maplewood- Cancelled
Wednesday, June 24:
- Swansea - Cancelled
- Helen Detwiler - Cancelled
- Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum - Cancelled
Saturday, June 27:
- Stoney Creek Arena - Cancelled
- Riverdale - Cancelled
- Discovery Centre - 3-4pm instead
Tuesday, June 30:
- Greencedar - Cancelled
- Mountview - Cancelled
The "Where-to-Look" Index

The Where-to-Look is a major reference tool in Local History and Archives, and has been part of the Hamilton Public Library since the 1930s. This is a unique catalogue of subject index cards telling members 'where to look' to find the information they are interested in researching. Library staff have indexed books, periodicals, newspapers, archives and many other sources since the original Where-to-Look was started. The information within is updated regularly, and currently contains more than 250,000 references to information concerning people, events, buildings, companies, churches, etc., all relating to Hamilton and the surrounding area.
Born from practicality and necessity, Local History and Archives' "Where-to-Look" is an indispensable fixture of the department, connecting staff and members to what they need to find within Local History and Archives' collections. Visit Local History and Archives today, and staff will happily show you how to use it in your own research.







