Beginning October 13, 2026
Central Library welcomes everyone. Beginning October 13, adults accessing designated areas will present a valid Hamilton Public Library card for Staff to scan at the Greeter station or enter as a Member’s guest. Children and teens under 18 are exempt.
The Check-In Protocol is scheduled to remain in place through April 5, 2027.
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Planning Your Visit
Do I need a Library card to enter Central Library?
You do not need a card to enter Central Library. First-floor programs, Social Worker and community partner supports, public computers, printing, photocopying and holds pickup remain accessible without showing a card.
Adults aged 18 and older accessing designated areas must present a valid Library card or accompany a Member as a guest. Signs and Staff will help you find the services you need.
Can I bring a guest?
Each Member with a valid Library card may bring up to two guests into designated areas. Guests do not need their own Library card or identification. The Member is responsible for their guests’ behaviour.
Do children and teens need to check in?
Children and teens under 18 are exempt. Parents and caregivers aged 18 and older follow the check-in process when accessing designated areas.
Can I use a washroom without a Library card?
Yes. Visitors without a Library card can ask Staff for assistance accessing a washroom. A Security staff member will accompany them.
What if I do not have a Library card or need help with my card?
There are many benefits to having a HPL card. Register online or visit Staff at the Information Desk. Staff can help you register for a Library card, replace a lost card or receive assistance accessing your account.
If you do not have identification or a fixed address, Staff can help you review your membership options in accordance with HPL procedures.
You can also enter designated areas as one of a Member’s two guests without your own Library card or identification.
What if I live outside Hamilton or have a blocked or suspended account?
Please speak with Staff. They will review your situation in accordance with HPL’s membership and access procedures and explain your options.
What about programs, appointments and partner services?
First-floor programs and on-site Social Worker and community partner supports remain accessible without showing a card.
Adults attending programs or appointments in designated areas follow the check-in process. Children and teens under 18 are exempt.
For partner events and meetings, the organizing department will coordinate access arrangements and provide any specific instructions to attendees.
Why HPL Is Introducing the Check-In Protocol
HPL tested a Library card check-in process at Central Library from March 16 to May 16, 2026 in response to current safety and service delivery challenges. Following that Pilot, regular operations resumed May 19.
HPL is reinstating a Check-In Protocol in response to current safety and service delivery challenges at Central Library. The decision draws on the spring Pilot evaluation, historical incident patterns and feedback from Staff, Members and community partners.
The protocol supports a safe and welcoming environment, the intended use of library spaces, programs and services, and fewer safety incidents and operational disruptions. It also helps maintain access to library services while connecting people with available support.
This operational decision was made by library leadership, and the Library Board was informed.
HPL recognizes the concerns about access and inclusion raised during the spring pilot. Staff will provide membership assistance, and HPL will monitor barriers and adjust the process as needed.
Monitoring and Updates
HPL will monitor safety incidents, emergency responses, library visits, service access and feedback from Staff, Members and partners. These measures will be considered together when reviewing the protocol and its effects.
Incident data is shared through monthly Library Board reports. Any changes to the process or its scheduled end date will be communicated to Staff and the public and reflected on this page.
About the Spring Pilot
The Central Library Card Access Pilot ran from March 16 to May 16, 2026. Regular operations resumed on May 19.
The evaluation reviewed safety, library operations, service access and feedback from Staff, the public and community organizations. Several safety indicators improved during the pilot, while feedback also identified concerns about access and inclusion. These findings helped inform the current Check-In Protocol.