Central Library - Jackson Square Lobby Entrance

The Jackson Square entrance doors have experienced an operational malfunction today, Monday, March 2. The doors are currently left partially open, allowing mobility aids to enter and exit. The estimated time of disruption is unknown at this time. Thank you for your patience.

Published:
Monday, March 2, 2026 - 1:00pm
Barton Branch Washrooms Out of Order

All public washrooms at Barton Branch are not working. We aim to get it fixed quickly.

Published:
Saturday, February 28, 2026 - 4:00pm
Valley Park Community Centre Closure

From March 23 until April 12, Valley Park Community Centre will be closed for renovations, reopening April 13. Pool and changerooms will remain closed until early summer 2026. 

Valley Park Branch will remain open during the renovations for your library needs.

www.hpl.ca/valley-park

Published:
Friday, February 27, 2026 - 11:00am
Carlisle Branch - Exterior Filming

Filming will take place Mar 3-4, 7am to 11pm, at 1464 Centre Rd. This may impact traffic flow in the surrounding area.

Published:
Friday, February 20, 2026 - 2:15pm
Concession Branch: Renovations

As of Monday, March 2, Concession Branch's Living Room and Makerspace areas are closed. (The next nearest Makerspaces are Sherwood and Terryberry Branches.) Seating may be limited at times. Renovations are expected to be completed in late Spring. Thank you for your patience.

Published:
Tuesday, February 10, 2026 - 1:00pm
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
Central Library - Living Room Renovation Preparation

Starting Tuesday February 10, the First Floor Living Room is closed due to renovation preparations. Study and work spaces are available on Floors 2-4. Thank you for your patience.

Published:
Friday, February 6, 2026 - 9:00am
Bookmobile Service Modification

Please note the following Bookmobile visit updates.

Wednesday, March 4
St. Elizabeth Village: 1:15-1:45pm - Cancelled
Gemini: 2-2:30pm - Cancelled
Rosedale: 5-6:30pm - Cancelled

Friday, March 6
Winona: 11am-Noon - Cancelled
Queen Victora: 3-4pm - Cancelled

Published:
Monday, February 2, 2026 - 3:15pm
Carlisle Branch Accessible Washroom Out of Order

The accessible washroom at Carlisle Branch is not working. We aim to get it fixed quickly.

Published:
Tuesday, January 27, 2026 - 12:30pm
Central Library - Sunday Hours Paused

Effective Sunday, February 1, Sunday service hours at Central Library will be paused. 

Sunday Hours will continue at Dundas, Red Hill, Terryberry, Turner Park, Valley Park and Waterdown Branches from 1-5pm.

www.hpl.ca/hours 

Published:
Wednesday, January 21, 2026 - 11:00am

FAQ - Volunteer page

What do I need to be a Hamilton Public Library volunteer?

  • The Hamilton Public Library offers a wide variety of volunteer opportunities and each position requires different qualifications. For further information please read the detailed descriptions for each of our positions.

What is the time commitment required to be a volunteer?

  • The volunteer programs at the Hamilton Public Library have varying time commitments. Programs such as Reading Buddies run only during the summer. Other programs require longer commitment times. The English Language Learning (ELL) Tutoring program requires a minimum commitment of six months.

How long does it take to be placed in a volunteer position?

  •  Placement times vary by the position. Some volunteer programs run only at certain times of the year (such as Teen Tech). Other programs such as the English Language Learning (ELL) Tutoring program take longer for placement since the volunteer and student need to be matched based on several factors including schedules, gender, approximate age and other factors.
  • Application forms are kept on file for six months; you will be contacted if there is a position available.

How old do I have to be to volunteer?

  • Youth volunteers must be 14 and older. Opportunities available for youth include Teen Tech and Summer Reading Buddies. Please note that volunteer applicants under 18 require a parent/guardian signature on the application form.
  • Adult volunteers must be 19 and older. ELL Tutoring positions are open to adults only.

Do I need a Police Check?

  • Volunteers ages 18 and older will need to provide Police Checks once they have been accepted as a volunteer. The position description will specify which type of Police Check is required.
  • Please do not apply and pay for a Police Check before being accepted as a volunteer.

Who can I use as a reference if I'm a teen?

  • Teens who are applying for youth volunteer positions can use a teacher, guidance counsellor, neighbour, family friend, a member of their place of worship, past or present employers (including someone you have babysat for) or other adults who can confirm that you are suitable for the position. Remember to include their phone number and to ask permission before using someone's name as a reference.

Where can I find more information?

  • The Volunteer Coordinator can be contacted at (905) 546-3200 x3620 or volunteer@hpl.ca