Freelton Branch has no power. The branch is open but the computers [and elevator] are not working. We are unsure when power will be restored.
Freelton Branch Without Power
Published:
Thursday, July 2, 2026 - 6:45pm
Heat Warning Notification for the City of Hamilton
Heat Warning for the City of Hamilton.
Significant heat and humidity will arrive on Tuesday June 30.
For information about heat-related illnesses, cool place locations and reducing your risk, visit hamilton.ca.
Published:
Tuesday, June 30, 2026 - 9:00am
What's Happening Guide Changes
The What's Happening Guide has been retired and replaced with different communications channels and tactics. You can find the new Summer Reading Flyer here. Watch for future communications updates.
Published:
Monday, June 29, 2026 - 3:00pm
Sunday Hours Return to Central Library
Sunday hours return to Central Library. Beginning July 5, Central is open Noon to 5pm. Dundas, Red Hill, Terryberry, Turner Park, Valley Park and Waterdown branches are also open Sundays, 1 to 5pm. hpl.ca/hours
Published:
Monday, June 29, 2026 - 1:00pm
Carlisle Branch Accessible Door Out of Order
The accessibility door at Carlisle Branch is not working. We aim to fix it quickly.
Published:
Thursday, June 25, 2026 - 2:45pm
Study Halls Pause for Summer Break
After Hours Study Hall is not available in July and August. Hours will resume Tuesday, September 8. www.hpl.ca/study-halls
Published:
Tuesday, June 23, 2026 - 3:00pm
Construction at Barton Branch
The entrance to the Barton Branch's parking lot off Milton Street is currently inaccessible due to construction. Please use the alley entrance off Fullerton Street.
Published:
Wednesday, June 17, 2026 - 9:15am
Phishing Scheme
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.
Published:
Wednesday, June 10, 2026 - 5:00am
Bookmobile Service Modification
Bookmobile Service Modifications
Thu Jul 2:
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Rockton Cancelled
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Mohawk Gardens Cancelled
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Meadowlands Cancelled
Fri Jul 3:
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Winona Cancelled
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Queen Victoria Cancelled
Mon Jul 6:
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Special Event - All Stops Cancelled
Published:
Friday, May 22, 2026 - 12:00pm
Local History and Archives Policy
Policy Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to outline the mandate, scope and objectives of the Hamilton Public Library’s Local History and Archives collections and archival activities and the authority under which the department operates.
This policy articulates the key objectives with respect to the acquisition, preservation and access to materials in the Local History and Archives collections which will reflect the Mission Statement and Strategic Priorities of the Hamilton Public Library. The policy outlines process and expectation to assure transparency, accountability and preservation of trust.
Key Points Summary
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The library’s Local History and Archives Policy outlines the key principles and key objectives of the library’s archival collection development and access.
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The Local History and Archives Policy outlines the key criteria for the acquisition, access and reappraisal of archival materials.
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A central role of Local History and Archives is to collect, preserve and make accessible materials which illustrate the history of the Hamilton area and its peoples.
Definitions
Accession is the formal acceptance into custody and recording of an acquisition.
Acquisition is an addition to the holdings of a repository.
Archival Processing is the physical and intellectual control work done by archives employees to fully prepare archival materials for use, access and long-term preservation.
Deaccession is the removal of material from the holdings of a repository.
Digital Preservation is the management and protection of digital information to ensure authenticity, integrity, reliability, and long-term accessibility of digitized and born-digital information.
Digitization is the process of transforming analog information into digital form.
Preservation encompasses actions taken to extend the useable life of material and records by minimizing physical and chemical deterioration, preventing loss of information and ensuring continual access and use over time.
Reappraisal is the process of identifying material that no longer merits inclusion in a repository.
