Hamilton Public Library to Open Temporary West Harbour Branch at Former Marine Discovery Centre

HAMILTON, ON – April 30, 2026 – Hamilton Public Library (HPL), in partnership with the City of Hamilton, will open a small, temporary West Harbour Branch, activating the waterfront site with services and programs while long-term plans continue.

The interim space, located at the former Canadian Marine Discovery Centre (77 Harbourside Way) is expected to open in summer 2026.

The temporary branch will offer library services, programs and an Indigenous-focused collection of books and resources. The space is being refreshed with minimal, targeted renovations led by architecture and mechanical engineering firm mcCallumSather to support a functional pop-up library. This work focuses on updates to layout, shelving and program areas, while largely reusing existing finishes and furnishings through a lean, cost-effective approach that prioritizes only the essential improvements needed to support library operations and cultural programming.

“We are excited to launch the new, temporary West Harbour Branch this July. Community feedback supported the temporary use of this site as we plan for the long term,” says Paul Takala, Chief Librarian, Hamilton Public Library. “The space will provide residents and Indigenous community members with opportunities to connect, learn and gather while long-term plans continue to take shape.”

From a city-building perspective, this initiative reflects a broader vision for Hamilton’s waterfront as a place for connection, learning and cultural exchange.

“Our waterfront is one of Hamilton’s great gathering places, and this temporary library branch will create new opportunities for residents to connect, learn and spend time together by the water,” says Mayor Andrea Horwath. “It expands access to library services, celebrates storytelling and cultural exchange, and supports a welcoming public space for Hamiltonians while we continue working with Indigenous partners and the community on a long-term vision for this important site.”

Advancing this vision, the City is focused on ensuring the space is activated in a way that meets community needs both now and in the future.

“This is a practical way to bring an important public space into use now, while longer-term planning continues with Indigenous partners and the community,” says City Manager Marnie Cluckie. “The temporary branch expands access to library services on the waterfront and keeps this site active and useful for the community.”

Central to this work is ensuring the space reflects and supports Indigenous communities and perspectives.

“This temporary site will offer Indigenous collections and programming that bring together local residents and Indigenous people from many Nations to share knowledge, stories and perspectives,” says Katelyn LaForme, Director of Indigenous Relations, Indigenous Relations Division, City of Hamilton. “This short-term plan allows us to activate the facility while we work to create a place that showcases the diverse culture, language and art of Indigenous people in this area.”

The longer-term Discovery Centre Program Design and Development Study is ongoing in partnership with the Indigenous Relations Division and Study consultant, Lord Cultural Resources. The Study will guide the future use and design of the building. The vision for the site includes a new library branch, an Indigenous gathering space, a cultural heritage exhibition space, a café and visitor amenities.

The project is being shaped through ongoing collaboration with Indigenous communities and partners, with a focus on creating a welcoming space that reflects Indigenous perspectives, supports cultural expression, and strengthens community connections across Hamilton.

The Study is guided by a Steering Committee and Working Group with representation from Indigenous communities, the City of Hamilton, and Hamilton Public Library. The Study began in Fall 2025, with results expected to be presented to Council in 2027.

Project updates are available at hpl.ca/discovery-centre.

About Hamilton Public Library
The Hamilton Public Library is a vibrant hub for information and culture, providing our diverse community the Freedom to Belong and Discover. As one of the largest library systems in Canada, Hamiltonians discover something new at our 23 locations, Bookmobile, or through our extensive digital collections. Visit us online at hpl.ca. Connect with us on X and Instagram @hamiltonlibrary, and Facebook at HamiltonPublicLibrary.

About City of Hamilton Indigenous Relations Division
The Indigenous Relations Division provides action-oriented, strategic leadership and guidance to advance the implementation of Hamilton's Urban Indigenous Strategy (UIS). The team supports leaders and staff from city divisions and departments in making progress towards the goals of the UIS and to strengthen the City’s relationship with Indigenous communities.

About mcCallumSather
mcCallumSather is a Canadian-owned, multi-disciplinary team offering architecture, mechanical engineering, and interior design. Their work emphasizes sustainable, thoughtful design, focusing on practical, efficient solutions that support both immediate use and long-term community value.

About Lord Cultural Resources
Lord Cultural Resources was founded by Gail and Barry Lord in 1981 and has become a global leader in cultural planning for museums, cultural districts, and the creative economy. With offices in Toronto, New York, Los Angeles, Madrid, and Mumbai, the firm has contributed to over 2,700 projects in 57 countries and 450 cities.