Hamilton Public Library opens temporary Indigenous-focused branch on waterfront

A new chapter is coming to Hamilton’s waterfront, one centered on Indigenous stories, culture, and connection.

A temporary library branch has opened at the former Canadian Marine Discovery Centre at 77 Harbourside Way, offering Indigenous collections and programming while the city works on a long-term vision for the site.

The provisional West Harbour branch is meant to bring life and culture to the waterfront location. While it features typical library amenities, including computers and photocopying services, the main highlight is an Indigenous-focused collection of books and art.

“It’s really important that we work on the urban Indigenous strategy and engaging local Indigenous communities which there’s a lot of lack of knowledge, ignorance of everyone about the cultures and the histories of the people that occupied this land for very long, and they’re still here,” said Paul Takala, Hamilton Public Library CEO and chief librarian.

To celebrate the official opening on the waterfront, members from neighbouring First Nations and Hamilton’s urban Indigenous community gathered at the library to share teachings, songs, drumming, dance and more.

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The space was renovated to incorporate a new layout, including shelving units and program areas, while reusing much of the original infrastructure. City officials say there could be many more changes to come.

“We’re going to make this sort of the anchor part of our Indigenous collection in the system,” Takala said. “So if anyone’s interested in Indigenous history, fiction, other things – they’ll be able to come here and access that as we work on the broader program.”

The City of Hamilton and the Hamilton Public Library say they are committed to working with Indigenous partners to make the waterfront site a permanent fixture.

Results of community feedback on the temporary branch are expected to go before city council next year to help determine the future design and use of the building.

“It could take us a long time to get the full development of the site done in terms of capital funding, also finalizing the vision which will go to council and the board late next year,” Takala said. “So we wanted to get it open so we could start growing the program as we plan for the future.”

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