For full Fines and Fees information, see the Fines and Fees Policy.
I want to borrow Library materials, but I have large fines on my account, what can I do?
Please contact staff to discuss your fines. Fines are not charged from March 15, 2020 to December 31, 2021.
My child has large fines on their account, what can I do?
All fines on youth material fines are permanently eliminated, effective March 15, 2020. Please contact staff if you have any questions.
My account is blocked, can you tell me why?
Accounts may be blocked for several reasons: an incorrect address or phone number, the borrowing limit is reached, material is missing (ex. a disc from a CD set). To discuss why your account is blocked, please contact us.
Note: Accounts are now blocked when 20 items are overdue on your account.
What does the term ‘Material Mixup’ message mean on my account?
Material Mixup is the name given to items that have been returned to the Library incomplete. (For ex. A DVD case returned to HPL is missing a disc.) Items returned incomplete result in a Material Mixup block and need to be resolved.
I have a damaged item ‑ will I be billed for it?
Items returned damaged are not billed. Please return your item to the closest branch or chat with staff.
I have lost an item, what should I do?
All lost items are not billed. However, Library Members must let staff know the item is lost.
Is the Library no longer issuing fines?
The Hamilton Public Library is not charging library fines from March 15, 2020 to December 31, 2021. All fines for youth materials are permanently eliminated, effective March 15. This ensures access to the library without fear of fines and supports the community through the pandemic and the recovery period. Learn more: Fines and Fees Policy.
Is it true children’s items are no longer fined?
Yes. All fines on youth materials are permanently eliminated, effective March 15, 2020. Learn more: Fines and Fees Policy.
How can the Library afford to do this? Who is paying for this?
The amount collected by fines and fees continues to decline annually and takes up a lot of staff time. HPL is launching a pay-it-forward donor fund to support Hamilton youth literacy and learning. The fund increases access to quality learning resources, to better prepare Hamilton’s youth for tomorrow.
How can I help the Library?
There are several ways you can help HPL.
You can also pay your fines, or pay it forward and help others.
I would like to pay for an item that is damaged/lost, can I do this?
Yes. Please Donate or contact HPL to contribute to the Library’s programs and services.