Central Library: Main Elevator Out of Order
One of the main elevators at Central Library is currently out of order. Estimated time of disruption is unknown. We apologize for the inconvenience.
Library Services Update
HPL is recovering from the City of Hamilton's cybersecurity-related incident, which began Sunday February 25 and continues today. Learn more.
- Public computers are available at all branches. JAWS (Job Access With Speech) computers are not available.
- Printing is available at all branches.
- Photocopying and scanning is available at all branches except at Westdale & Concession.
- Public Wi-Fi is available at all branches.
- Makerspace services are available at select locations.
Contact Library Staff at 289-779-7588, hpl.ca or askus@hpl.ca. Check hpl.ca/events for programs and hpl.ca/hours for open hours.
Borrowing
What do I need to borrow material?
To borrow library materials, you will need your library card number and your PIN. A PIN is assigned when you register for a card.
You can change this PIN at any time, through your My HPL library account or at any library branch. Please make sure you bring identification when you wish to make changes to your account in person.
How long can I borrow material?
The loan period for most circulating items is 21 days with following exceptions:
- Express DVDs –7 days
- Magazines –7 days (adult and children's, non-renewable)
- Park Passes –7 days
- Book Club Kits –42 days
- VLS members’ loan period –120 days
When you check out materials you will receive a receipt with the due date for the items you have borrowed. A receipt can also be emailed to you. You can also check MyHPL for due dates.
Borrowing Limits
For more information about library cards, see Types of Library cards.
Renewals
Items that are eligible for renewal will automatically be renewed on the due date up to three (3) times following initial checkout. Members with email notification will receive an email informing them of which items have been renewed and which items will be due.
The following items are not eligible for renewal:
- Items requested by another member
- Magazines
- DVD Express
- Bestseller Express
Renewal of Interlibrary loan materials is subject to the guidelines of the lending library.
Reserves/Holds
Members may reserve an item to be picked up at a preferred location. This is referred to as placing an item on “hold.” Upon notification that a reserve is available, members have 7 open days to pick up the item. The following physical items cannot be reserved:
- Magazines
- DVD Express
- Bestseller Express
Returns
Items borrowed from the Hamilton Public Library need to be returned to an HPL location. Drop boxes are available for the return of items when the location is closed. If a Hamilton Public Library item is returned to another library system in error, the card holder is responsible for all fees and associated charges. Certain items may need to be returned during open hours.
Suspension of Borrowing Privileges
Borrowing privileges are suspended when members have overdue materials over the threshold limit. Suspensions only apply to physical borrowing; digital collections and resources remain accessible.
Partnerships
HPL cardholders can also borrow materials from Burlington Public Library. Read more about this partnership at More to Borrow | HPL
Through OverDrive/Libby HPL cardholders can access eBooks and eAudiobooks at Burlington, Ottawa, London, Kingston and Mississauga libraries. Read more information about this partnership at hpl.ca/More-to-Borrow.