October is Women's History Month
Women’s stories shape our communities, challenge our thinking and inspire new possibilities. October is National Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate the women and girls who contribute to a better, more inclusive Canada.
At HPL, hear from women working in literature, history and music, find your next read in HPL’s Women’s History Month collection, and connect with opportunities to learn, create and find support.
The month also includes two occasions for reflection: International Day of the Girl Child on October 11 and Persons Day on October 18. Continue learning through the Women of Impact in Canada gallery, which shares the achievements of women across politics, the arts, sciences and other fields.
Stories, History and New Perspectives
October’s programs bring women’s research and storytelling into conversations about history, imagination and some of Hamilton’s most compelling stories.
At Central Library on October 6, Dr. Megan Armstrong traces Halloween’s transformation from a celebration rooted in ritual, community and the supernatural to a playful night of fright in From Harvest to Horror: The Roots of Halloween. Dr. Meredith Reddy continues the journey into the supernatural at Westdale on October 8 with Ghosts and Ghostbusters: 19th Century Spiritualism, exploring ghost stories and the people who investigate them.
On October 13 at Central Library, Sarah Farr and Megan Janssen-McBride brings new details and competing perspectives to Evelyn Dick: Did She or Didn’t She?, revisiting the notorious Hamilton case that captured national attention.
For younger readers and their families, children’s author Joyce Grant introduces her latest release, This is a Library Book, at the HPL Local Author Launch on October 17, from 1–2pm in Central Library’s Hamilton Room.
Find Your Voice
Whether you are developing a manuscript or ready to share a ghost story, HPL offers opportunities to connect with women writers and develop your craft.
Lisa Richter, HPL’s 2026–2027 Writer in Residence, supports Hamilton’s creative writers through feedback and conversation. Join her Writing Circle at Central Library on October 15 or book a one-on-one writing consultation.
At West Harbour on October 21, Anna Chatterton hosts Ghost Story Open Mic Night, inviting participants to share original ghost stories with established writers and storytellers. Return on October 28 to hear Karma Brown and Jessica Hamilton join Nick Cutter and moderator Andrew F. Sullivan for the Fright Fest Author Panel, a conversation about spine-chilling stories and the craft of writing horror.
Hear Local Talent
Women musicians bring their voices and artistry to HPL branches throughout October. The month opens with the Patti Payne Trio at Red Hill on October 1, followed by Lily Sazz with Rob Lamothe at Central Library and Hayley Verrall at Barton on October 2. Trickbag performs at Dundas on October 3.
Central Library welcomes Emma Whale on October 9 and Vintage Noise on October 16. Later in the month, hear Amanda Jansen at Sherwood on October 26.
Connect with Support
Women’s History Month is also an opportunity to connect with services that support women’s well-being. Women’s Education and Rural Support (WEARS) and Counselling is available Mondays at Turner Park and Tuesdays at Binbrook. The program provides free, confidential counselling, advocacy, referrals, family court support, safety planning and workshops, along with support for wellness and coping skills.
Beyond the Library, the Women of Impact in Canada online gallery offers more stories of courageous women whose achievements continue to influence life in Canada.