The following Bookmobile visits are cancelled this month. We apologize for the inconvenience.
Wednesday, May 14: Swansea and Helen Detwiler
Thursday, May 15: Rockton and Meadowlands
Mohawk Gardens, 2-2:30 pm instead
Bennetto, 4:30-5:30 pm instead
Friday, May 16: Huntington Park
Friday, May 30: Huntington Park, Winona, and Maplewood
In preparation for the 1st Floor renovations, the Sherwood Branch will be closed on Wednesday, May 14. It is expected to reopen on Thursday, May 15 with the completion of the basement renovation. Thank you for your understanding.
All HPL Branches are closed on Sunday, May 18, and Victoria Day, Monday, May 19. Bookmobile is off the road. Extended Access and Study Hall services are not available. Our Virtual Branch is open at hpl.ca.
On Tuesday, May 13, a fire drill will be held at 11 am at Central Library. You may visit the Barton or Locke Branches as alternate locations for your library needs. Thank you for your understanding.
Due to the ongoing roof repair project, noise and parking disruptions are expected to continue until the end of June. Thank you for your patience.
From Monday, May 5 to Saturday, May 31, the Ancaster Branch will be temporarily closed due to a roof and HVAC replacement. During this time, service hours will be available at the Ancaster Rotary Centre, 385 Jerseyville Road West, Ancaster. The last day to pick up your Holds is Thursday, May 1st. Thank you for your understanding.
The digital microfilm machines at Central Library are not working. A single analog machine is available, but it doesn't print. We aim to have the digital devices repaired as soon as possible. We apologize for the inconvenience.
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.
Why is Hamilton Public Library adding online library card registration?
Hamilton Public Library wants to offer all Hamiltonians the opportunity to connect and use Library resources – online and in person.
Who can apply for a library card online?
Anyone who lives, works or studies in Hamilton is eligible for a library card.
How can someone apply for a library card online?
You need to fill out the Online Library Card Registration form.
Please fill out the form with all the necessary information. The form is available under My HPL located on the upper right of the website. Online library card registration will be one of the drop-down options under My HPL.
The form can also be found in the Get A Library Card page on hpl.ca.
What can I access once I get my online library card number?
You can immediately enjoy all our digital content — eBooks, eAudiobooks, download music, online learning tools and research databases.
Can I borrow physical items with an online HPL card?
Yes, Members can use their online card to borrow physical items in-branch. You’ll be asked to show identification when it’s your first time borrowing physical items.
Can I use the online HPL card to get into Hamilton Civic Museums?
Library card holders can use their Library card to enter Hamilton Civic Museums. Each person needs their own card. Stay up-to-date on the list of Hamilton Civic Museums that are open.
I already have a Hamilton Public Library card. Do I need an online library card number to access HPL’s digital content?
No. Your current library card number already has access to all HPL digital content. Simply log in with your existing library card number and PIN.
Can I apply for my child’s card online?
Yes. For children under 14, a parent or guardian must consent and complete the electronic application form.
Can I add the name of someone else who can have access to my account?
No, however, they can apply for their own card online.
I tried to apply online and it keeps giving me error messages.
Some of the possible reasons for the errors are IP addresses outside of Canada, an already existing account, misspelt street names, etc. There is usually a red circle with a question mark inside beside the field that is generating the error. Hovering over the red circle will explain the error. If the error persists, please call 905-546-3200, email askus@hpl.ca or click the chat button at hpl.ca.
I prefer to receive mail at a different address. Can I put my mailing address in the online library card registration form?
Sorry. We need your home address in the application to confirm that you live, work or study in Hamilton.
Why can’t the form confirm my address?
Some new addresses and apartment addresses can’t be verified by databases. If this is the case, visit any library branch and talk to staff. You can also call 905-546-3200, email askus@hpl.ca or click the chat button at hpl.ca.
I’ve lost my online HPL card. What should I do?
Call 905-546-3200, email askus@hpl.ca or click the chat button at hpl.ca if you need help. Or bring valid ID to any HPL branch where staff can help.
I applied for an online HPL card but didn’t receive the welcome email.
Your security settings may be blocking the email. Please check your spam/junk mail folder.
Can I get an online HPL card to replace a lost or stolen card?
No. Please contact the Library immediately to report your lost or stolen card. Call 905-546-3200, email askus@hpl.ca or click the chat button at hpl.ca You need to replace it in person at any HPL branch.
Can I purchase a non-resident library card online?
Not currently. We are hoping to offer this soon. Please visit any HPL branch to get a physical non-resident library card.
