Concession Branch - Renovations Underway

Renovations are expected to be completed by May 7. Construction repairs and noise may impact your next visit. Thank you for your understanding.

Published:
Monday, April 13, 2026 - 1:15pm
Turner Park - Study Hall Cancellations

Due to maintenance and construction, Study Hall is cancelled on Thursdays, April 16 and 23 (8pm-Midnight). The parking lot will also not be available on Thursday, April 23 (10pm-5am) and Friday, April 24 (10pm-5am). We apologize for the inconvenience.

Published:
Wednesday, April 8, 2026 - 2:30pm
Mount Hope Branch - Delayed Opening, Monday, May 4

Due to Staff training, Mount Hope Branch will have a delayed opening of 2 pm on Monday, May 4. You may visit Turner Park Branch as the next nearest location for your library needs. Thank you for your patience.

Published:
Friday, March 27, 2026 - 8:00am
Central Library: Children's Area Renovation on 2nd Floor, March 30-April 27

Starting March 30, renovations for the 2nd floor Central Children's Area will begin. Programs will still be offered as scheduled and there will be a temporary pop-up Children’s Area on the northeast side of the 2nd floor (near the Piano Room), including access to collections and train tables. Thank you for your patience during this time.

Published:
Monday, March 23, 2026 - 9:00am
Bookmobile Service Modifications

Due to driver availability, Bookmobile is off the road for the following. We apologize for the inconvenience.

Tuesday, April 21

  • Greencedar 5:30pm-6:30pm (instead of 4-5pm)
  • Mountview 5:30-6:30 pm - Cancelled

Friday, April 24

  • Winona 11 am-Noon - Cancelled
  • Maplewood 2:30-4 pm - Cancelled

Tuesday, April 28

  • McMaster 3:30-4:30 pm - Cancelled

Wednesday, April 29

  • Swansea 10-10:30 am - Cancelled
  • Helen Detwiler 11 am-Noon - Cancelled
  • Warplane Museum 3-4 pm - Cancelled
Published:
Monday, March 16, 2026 - 10:15am
Sherwood Branch: Renovations

As of Monday, March 2, Sherwood Branch's 2nd floor is closed due to renovations. Makerspace, Children and Teen's collection are temporarily available on the 1st floor. All programs will be held in the basement program room. Renovations are expected to be completed in late Spring. Thank you for your patience.

Published:
Tuesday, February 10, 2026 - 1:00pm

Library Card Access Pilot

Library Card Image

Take a short survey to help inform next steps about Central’s Library Card Access pilot: hpl.ca/card-access-survey


Library Card Access Pilot; Check-in Process

Hamilton Public Library’s Central Library welcomes thousands of people daily, including children, families, students, newcomers, job seekers and seniors who depend on the Library for learning, community and support.  

Throughout winter, the Library saw a rise in disruptive behaviour and illegal drug use, which undermined its ability to provide a safe, welcoming space for all visitors.  

To address these challenges while ensuring vital services, Hamilton Public Library is launching a pilot requiring a library card to access the floors at Central Library.  

Pilot Details

Dates: March 16 for up to two months  

Adults (18+) must show a library card to access Central Library floors during the pilot. Children and teens are exempt.  

Please note that parents and/or caregivers require their own library card.

Why Are We Doing This Pilot?  

This pilot aims to lower incidents at Central Library so families, students, seniors, job seekers and other visitors can use the space safely.  

Our Commitment to Access

Hamilton Public Library is committed to serving everyone in our community. Staff will assist visitors in obtaining a card and connecting with services, including support for individuals without a permanent address.  

At the same time, the Library aims to provide a safe environment where families, students, seniors, staff and visitors can use the spaces comfortably.  

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Library card to enter Central Library?  

During the pilot, adults (18+) must show a valid Hamilton Public Library card to enter Central Library. Children and teens are not required to show a card.  

What if I don’t have a Library card?  

Library staff can help visitors register for a card quickly. Cards are free for Hamilton residents.   

What if I don’t have an address or identification?  

Staff can assist individuals who may not have a fixed address.   

Can I still attend programs or pick up holds?  

Yes. Library services, programs and collections will continue to operate as usual.   

How long is the pilot?  

The pilot runs from March 16 for up to two months. 

Get a Library Card
Letter to Residents