Create with Confidence in Hamilton: Professional Gear, Zero Cost
Did you know that you can access a ton of expensive tools like a 3D printer, the Adobe Creative Suite software, or even professional music equipment – all from your local library?
Check out our video to explore Hamilton’s Central Library and all the amazing tools offered there.
Instead of spending hours of research and hundreds of dollars on gear to make that YouTube video or creative project like I have in the past, why not utilize FREE tools that are right here at home?
Hamilton’s Public Libraries are not what you think they are, in fact, they offer an incredible range of FREE tools, services, and programs that go way beyond just borrowing books.
On top of being able to access physical books, eBooks, audiobooks, music, and even movies, Hamilton’s libraries have a ton of super cool tools and services just waiting for you to check out. From electric guitars and drumkits to microphones and lighting, DSLR cameras and GoPro’s, iMac computers, and so much more. Let’s get right into everything you can access at Hamilton’s Public Libraries!
Where is Hamilton, ON?
Hamilton, Ontario is a vibrant city about an hour’s drive from Toronto. It’s home to tons of entrepreneurs and tech companies, and also boasts a whopping 20+ libraries – all a part of the Hamilton Public Library system.
Unfortunately, not many people know about the many programs and services offered by HPL, I know that I didn’t for the longest time. In fact, I’m just learning about the fact that you can book time on a piano at the Central Library in Hamilton, which beats spending a few hundred dollars on a piano that I have ZERO space for in my house.
And that’s why at 360Hamilton, we’re on a mission to ensure everyone can find and access the incredible and FREE services at Hamilton’s public libraries, so we’ve made this informative blog post to help you do just that.
Access Thousands of Dollars' Worth of FREE Tools
Did you know you can create your next masterpiece using the Hamilton Public Library’s “Makerspaces?” Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur, a creative content creator, or simply someone who loves to tinker, the Hamilton Public Library gives you access to thousands of dollars’ worth of equipment—you just need a library card!
Here’s a sneak peek of what’s waiting for you at select branches, since every location offers unique tools and services.
It’s important to note, however, that since the Hamilton Public Library recently faced a significant cybersecurity related outage, some makerspace equipment is unavailable until further notice:
3D printers for designing your custom objects.
Professional cameras and video gear for shooting high-quality content.
Laser cutters and vinyl printers to create beautiful designs.
Music and recording equipment like electric guitars, drumkits, and microphones for that hit single you’ve always wanted to produce.
iMac computers and the full Adobe Creative Cloud Suite for editing, designing, and creating content like a pro.
AND SO MUCH MORE
Find the full list of Makerspace equipment, plus which branch they are available at here. Please note that not all services are 100% free. For example, if you refer to the Makerspace pricing guide, there is a small fee for materials. Regardless, this ends up being WAY cheaper than investing in your own equipment and materials. It’s also extremely helpful if you simply don’t have the space for large equipment like 3D printers, laser cutters, studio tech, etc.
Save Money & Utilize Your Local Library
Imagine the money you could save by recording your next YouTube video or podcast using the library’s state-of-the-art gear. No need to spend thousands on soundproofing, video cameras, computers, lighting, or professional-grade audio equipment—just walk into your local library branch and start creating!
Connect with Others & Learn New Skills
Beyond the “Makerspaces,” Hamilton Public Libraries have also reinvented how we learn and connect with each other. You can attend health and wellness programs, seek help from social workers, or even build your career with access to job searches and a career center filled with resources to help you develop new skills.
Need to practice your English? Join the conversation circles at the library or the newcomer book club. The library has also made it easier for seniors to learn new skills, offering digital literacy tutoring both in-person and online.
Can’t Make It to the Library? No Problem.
Plus, if you’re unable to make it to the library, HPL has your back with its “Home Library service,” delivering books and other materials straight to your doorstep. They also have a “Bookmobile,” what the Hamilton Public Library is calling their ‘branch on wheels.’
It makes stops throughout Hamilton to “ensure everyone can enjoy library materials and services.” It stops Monday through Saturday, all throughout the day, and travels all across Hamilton – from Flamborough to Stoney Creek! Here’s a full list of their upcoming stops: https://www.hpl.ca/bookmobile-stops
Image Source: https://northendbreezes.com/walkabout-hpl-bookmobile/
Libraries: More Than Just a Place to Pick Up a Book
So, as you can see, the Hamilton Public Library isn’t just a place to pick up a book, leave, and then forget to read it or return it—it's a full-blown experience that can change the way you work, play, and learn. It can also give you access to tons of free tools, services, and programs that would otherwise be expensive or inaccessible.
Audiobooks, eBooks, movies, music equipment, graphic design software, and so much more – it's all waiting for you at your local Hamilton Library branch.
How to Get the Most out of Hamilton’s Library Services
1. Get a Hamilton Public Library Card: Signing up is easy. Just bring a piece of ID (like a driver’s license or utility bill with your Hamilton address) to your nearest branch. You can also sign up online in a few easy steps by going to https://www.hpl.ca/librarycard and filling out the online form. You’ll then receive an email with steps on how to register your library card.
If you’re not a resident of Hamilton, don’t worry! HPL has made it so “anyone with a Library card from the neighbouring municipalities can also borrow items from Hamilton Public Library.” Find the full list of municipalities that are covered, plus more details about this program here.
2. Plan Your Time in the Makerspace: Equipment like the 3D printers and professional cameras are in high demand, so be sure to book your time in advance (and at the correct branch that:
a. you intend to visit and
b. has the equipment you’re looking for.
You can also check out HPL’s Makerspace equipment ‘tutorials’ webpage so that even if you’re a beginner, you can take full advantage of everything the Makerspace has to offer. HPL even offers events that teach skills related to the Makerspace, like the event “Create a Website with Wix” on Monday, October 21, 2024, at the Valley Park Branch.
This event starts at 3:30 PM and allows you to learn web design and how to start creating your own website with NO previous knowledge, COMPLETELY FREE.
3. Join Programs and Clubs: Libraries are not just about borrowing books or free Wi-Fi, they are about community. From piano lessons to career-building programs, there are endless opportunities to connect, learn, and grow.
4. Explore the History: The Hamilton Public Library system has been a staple in the community for decades. I encourage you to learn about the history surrounding Hamilton’s Libraries, which we dive into next.
History of Hamilton’s Public Library System
Hamilton’s libraries have been a community hub for a long time. In fact, the first Hamilton Public Library building opened on September 16, 1890, on Main Street West in Hamilton.
From the get-go, the library system wanted to emphasize material on Canadian and local history.
When the Hamilton Public Library opened a new Main Library in 1914 with funding from Andrew Carnegie, the newly named ‘Canadiana Room’ held a separate collection of Canadian and local historical materials. This location was at 55 Main St W.
The building now houses the Superior Court of Justice, Family Court building since the library was later relocated to where the Hamilton Central Library now stands at 55 York Boulevard.
In October of 1974, the Special Collections department opened in the ‘Reference Library’ (which is actually in the BMO building at the corner of Main Street West and James Street in Hamilton) bringing together the ‘Local History Collection, the Canadiana Collection, the Archives and the Rare Books Collection’ together under one roof.
This department was then relocated to its current location at 44 York Blvd. when the new Central library opened in October of 1980.
“Former Hamilton Library” (Now the Superior Court of Justice, Family Court building)
Image Source: https://www.doorsopenontario.on.ca/hamilton-1/superior-court-of-justice-family-court
“BMO Building” in Hamilton, ON
Image Source: https://www.historicplaces.ca/en/rep-reg/image-image.aspx?id=8330#i3
“Hamilton’s Central Library”
Image Source: https://www.hpl.ca/central
Get Your Library Card Today & Unlock a World of Possibilities
So, whether you want to learn a new skill, create professional-quality content, or connect with like-minded people, the Hamilton Public Library is your gateway to innovation, WITHOUT the hefty price tag.
Don’t miss out! Get your Hamilton Public Library card today and unlock a world of possibilities.
Image Source: https://www.hpl.ca/library-card-power
At 360Hamilton, we’re on a mission to change the way people connect to the information they need. That's why we’re actively creating content like this blog post about Hamilton’s libraries, which will help you get to know the wonderful city of Hamilton.
But that’s not all we've been up to. We’re also building online platforms that will enable you to provide a one-stop shop in support of your own community, no matter where you are.
Stay tuned for what’s ahead at www.360hamilton.ca. Soon, you’ll be able to combine innovative tools from videos, blog posts, news articles, online stores, collaboration, and more - all in ONE convenient location.
