Frequently Asked Questions
I have questions. Who can answer them?
Email askus@hpl.ca, call 905-546-3200 or chat at hpl.ca.
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Borrowing
Can I place holds?
Yes. Members can access the HPL Catalogue and HPL app. Log into your Library account, browse, borrow and place new (or adjust) Holds on your devices.
When can I pick up my holds?
You will be notified when your Holds are ready for pickup.
How long can I borrow physical library materials, eBooks and eAudiobooks?
In most cases, you have 21 days to enjoy your items. See more information on our Borrowing page.
Beginning Monday August 31, new loan periods for the library items listed below take effect to shorten wait times.
DVD Express - 3 days
DVDs and Blu-rays - 7 days (fiction, children's and languages)
Magazines - 7 days
Bestseller Express - 14 days
DVDs and Blu-rays - 14 days (non-fiction and TV series)
Books - 21 days
Music/Books on CD and Children's Express - 21 days
Are there fines for overdue materials?
HPL permanently eliminated fines on all materials as of March 1, 2022. However, replacement fees are charged for materials more than 28 days overdue. When you bring them back, the fees are reversed. If no one is waiting for the item(s) you borrowed, they’ll be automatically renewed twice.
Does my library card work online?
Some eResources are available without a library card. Visit HPL online and call 905-546-3200, email askus@hpl.ca, or chat with Staff.
Services
Are branches open?
Yes, branches are open hpl.ca/hours. This includes branches with Extended Access.
Which branches are open on Sundays?
Central Library is open Noon-5pm and the Dundas, Red Hill, Terryberry, Turner Park, Valley Park and Waterdown branches are open 1-5pm. Please check hpl.ca/hours for up-to-date schedules.
Is Study Hall open?
After Hours Study Halls, which run 8pm-Midnight, resume Sep 8, 2026. See locations and details at hpl.ca/study-halls.
Can I visit the Bookmobile?
Yes. And there are more sites throughout the region. Specific days and times for each location are listed at hpl.ca/bookmobile.
Can I use a computer?
Public computers are available at all branches.
Can I get help with my tech devices?
Yes. We have drop-in tech programs or you can book an appointment for a one-on-one session. Please bring in your device.
Can I use the Wi-Fi?
Public Wi-Fi is available at all branches.
Is Local History and Archives open?
Central Library's LHA 3rd Floor in-person reading room and Staff are available. In-room reference material, microfilm and other in-person services are available. Online image searching is not available.
Are Makerspaces open?
Yes. For a list of available equipment, visit HPL.ca/makerspace. Visit HPL online, call 905-546-3200, email askus@hpl.ca, or chat with library Staff with any questions.
Are in-person programs offered?
Yes. Visit hpl.ca/events for a full listing.
Can I suggest a Book Club Kit title for HPL’s collection?
Yes. Please use the Suggest for Purchase form.
Can I suggest a purchase?
HPL welcomes suggestions for purchase. Submit a suggestion using our online form.
Is the Home Library Service running?
Yes. Read more information about the Home Library Service.
Can I use my HPL card at other library systems?
Please check with our neighbouring Library systems (Burlington, Kingston, London, Milton, Mississauga and Ottawa). Other systems may have different services and policies.
Can I make a request for an interlibrary loan?
Yes. If you can’t find what you’re looking for in HPL’s catalogue, please fill out the Interlibrary Loan Request form to access items from library systems across Ontario and Canada.
What can I do with my card?
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Use it at any Library branch in Hamilton.
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Borrow books, CDs, movies, magazines, video games and more.
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Access online resources such as newspapers, articles and special databases (consumer reports, auto repair, genealogy research).
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Download eBooks, eAudiobooks, music, movies and magazines.
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Use digital media labs and Makerspaces.
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Access Hamilton's Civic Museums for free.
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Pick up a free PRESTO card for children age 6-12.
Can I register for a new library card?
Yes. Anyone living, working or studying in Hamilton can register for a free Library card at any HPL branch. Please bring proof of your current address and identification, such as:
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A valid driver's license (permanent or temporary)
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Ontario photo card
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Two pieces of current identification (one should include your current address)
Print / Copy / Scan / Laminate
Can I print remotely (Print to Go) and pick it up at a branch?
Yes, Print on the Go is available at all branches.
Can I print, photocopy, or scan at a branch?
Printing is available at all branches. Photocopying and scanning is available at all branches.
How do I check my account?
Please log in to a computer at any of our branches to see your balance listed in the PaperCut pop-up on the top right of the screen. You can also ask Library Staff for help.
Where is my balance?
We have restored balances as accurately as possible. If you notice a discrepancy, please speak with Staff at any branch, chat online at hpl.ca, email askus@hpl.ca, or call 905-546-3200.
My balance needs to be corrected. How can I fix this?
Please speak with Library Staff via phone 905-546-3200, chat at hpl.ca, email askus@hpl.ca, or in-branch.
What if I have questions?
Please reach out. Library Staff is available to answer questions in-branch, online at hpl.ca, via email at askus@hpl.ca, or call 905-546-3200.
Can I scan to USB?
Yes, please ask HPL Staff for assistance.