Hamilton Waterfront Discovery Centre Study to Reimagine Library Branch and Indigenous Gathering Space

HAMILTON, ON – September 23, 2025 – Hamilton Public Library (HPL) in partnership with the City of Hamilton’s Indigenous Relations Division (IRD) is moving forward with the redevelopment of the former Canadian Marine Discovery Centre at 77 Harbourside Way on Hamilton’s waterfront.  

The vision for the site includes a new library branch, Indigenous gathering space, cultural heritage exhibition space, café, and visitor amenities. 

After a competitive process for a Study consultant, Lord Cultural Resources has been chosen to lead the Discovery Centre Program Design and Development Study. The Study will guide the future use and design of the building and help shape the next phase of planning and engagement. 

Lord Cultural Resources was selected through a competitive process for strong cultural and community-based design, demonstrated commitment to Indigenous collaboration, and thoughtful approach to complex, multi-partner projects. Their proposal reflects shared values of inclusive consultation, cultural sensitivity, and design excellence. 

Lord Cultural Resources will work closely with the project team, Indigenous community, local partners, and members of the public to gather ideas, input, and feedback. Community voices are essential in shaping a shared vision for the site—one that honours Indigenous perspectives, fosters connection, and reflects Hamilton's diversity. 

“We thank Library staff, the City of Hamilton, the City’s Indigenous Relations staff, Indigenous community members, and Hamilton residents. This is an exciting and inspiring step toward reimagining the former Discovery Centre as a welcoming, inclusive place of learning, gathering, and cultural celebration,” says Gagan Batra, Board Chair, Hamilton Public Library. “We look forward to working with Lord Cultural Resources and the community to bring this vision to life.” 

"The study for this site is an important step forward in bringing together Indigenous people from many nations with HPL and the City to share knowledge, stories and perspectives," says Katelyn LaForme, Director of Indigenous Relations, Indigenous Relations Division, City of Hamilton. "We want to come together in a good way, to create a place that is meaningful and provides an opportunity to showcase the amazing and diverse culture, language, and art of Indigenous people in this area." 

“Hamilton was the birthplace of our co-founder, Barry Lord, who believed in a people-first philosophy when it came to rethinking our cultural spaces,” says Dov Goldstein, Lord Partner.  “We look forward to working with the Library, Hamilton’s Indigenous Relations staff, Indigenous community members and local residents to re-envision this important waterfront site into a vital and welcoming gathering space.”   

The project is guided by a Steering Committee and Working Group, established in 2024, with representatives from the Indigenous community, the City’s Indigenous Relations staff, and Hamilton Public Library staff. These groups will continue to support the process alongside the consultant team. The Study is expected to begin Fall 2025 and results presented to Council in 2027.  

Project updates will be posted regularly at hpl.ca/discovery-centre. 

About Hamilton Public Library 
The Hamilton Public Library is a vibrant hub for information and culture, providing our diverse community the Freedom to Belong and Discover. As one of the largest library systems in Canada, Hamiltonians discover something new at our 23 locations, Bookmobile, or through our extensive digital collections. Visit us online at hpl.ca. Connect with us on X, Instagram @hamiltonlibrary, and Facebook at HamiltonPublicLibrary.     
 
About Indigenous Relations Division 
The Indigenous Relations Division provides action-oriented, strategic leadership and guidance to advance the implementation of Hamilton's Urban Indigenous Strategy (UIS). The team supports leaders and staff from city divisions and departments in making progress towards the goals of the UIS and to strengthen the City’s relationship with Indigenous communities. 
 
About Lord Cultural Resources 
Lord Cultural Resources was founded by Gail and Barry Lord in 1981 and grew to become the world’s most impactful cultural planning firm focused on museums, cultural districts, and the creative economy. With offices in Toronto, New York, Los Angeles, Madrid and Mumbai, Lord Cultural Resources has helped to create places, spaces and experiences in over 2,700 projects in 57 countries and 450 cities.