Preview the New HPL.ca

We're excited to share a preview of the new HPL.ca before its official launch on September 15.

Explore the new site, discover updated navigation and get familiar with the improved online experience designed to make it easier to find Library services, programs, collections and information.

If you encounter an issue or have feedback, please let us know through our Contact Us page.

Published:

Wednesday, September 2, 2026 - 3:00pm

Kenilworth Branch - Parking Lot

Due to a fence replacement, the parking lot is not available on Friday, September 11, the morning of Saturday, September 12 and on Tuesday, September 15. Nearby street parking is available. Thank you for your patience.

Published:

Wednesday, September 2, 2026 - 2:00pm

Barton Branch - Construction in Area

Please note that Milton Avenue at Barton Street is under construction. Access to the parking lot is limited. Nearby street parking is available and an HSR route out front. Thank you for your patience.

Published:

Monday, August 31, 2026 - 2:30pm

Print on the Go Currently Unavailable

The Print on the Go service is not working at all Branches. We aim to fix it as soon as possible.

Published:

Thursday, August 27, 2026 - 12:30pm

Delayed Openings and Closures

Due to Staff training, the following service modifications are planned.

Red Hill: Friday, September 18, Delayed Opening of 10 am
Central Library: Tuesday, September 29, Delayed Opening of 10 am

Visit www.hpl.ca/hours for open alternate locations.

Published:

Tuesday, August 25, 2026 - 2:00pm

Bookmobile Schedule Modifications for September

Bookmobile has the following schedule modifications for September:

Please visit www.hpl.ca/bookmobile for updates on service modifications.

Saturday, September 12

Stoney Creek - Cancelled
Riverdale - Cancelled

Thursday, September 17

Mohawk Gardens - Cancelled
Meadowlands - Cancelled

Friday, September 18

Winona - Cancelled
Queen Victoria - Cancelled

Published:

Monday, August 24, 2026 - 9:30am

Blizzard of 1898

The Blizzard of 1898

One of the earliest documented snow storms in Hamilton took place in February 1845 when it snowed continuously for three days. The overland four horse stage coach to Toronto took two days to complete the trip from Hamilton. Possibly the worst snow storm ever to hit the Hamilton area, however, took place just over 100 years ago. On December 4, 1898 the snow began to fall. It continued to fall all night leaving a heavy coating of snow on everything. Then, on Sunday at noon, the temperature plummeted and strong winds picked up. Telephone and hydro poles began snapping off and live wires crackled across James Street North for over an hour before the power could be turned off. Large tree branches fell, in some cases just barely missing pedestrians. There were no outside telephone or telegraph connections and the city was without electricity for nearly thirty-six hours. No trains could get in or out of the city and the streetcars were at a complete standstill.

Following are some views of Hamilton after the great storm of '98!