Adults once again need a valid Hamilton Library card to enter the Central library branch in downtown Hamilton.
The Hamilton Public Library (HPL) resumed its Central Library Access Policy on Tuesday, October 13. The reinstatement of the policy occurred without any public notification. The HPL did not update its website or any of its social media channels with notice.
This publication confirmed the change with an in-person visit to the library during Tuesday evening.
Because HPL issued no public notice, it is not known why the policy was reinstated.
The Library Board approved the policy in a 7–2 vote on March 11, 2026. Under it, Chief Librarian Paul Takala is authorized to implement access restrictions when adult disruptions, such as the use of illicit drugs inside the library, would otherwise force a branch to close to protect the health and safety of patrons and staff.
The policy was first implemented for two months, from March 16 to May 16, 2026. That followed months of deteriorating safety conditions at the downtown branch over the winter. The crisis in drug use and “adult disruptions” became so severe that Sunday hours at the Central branch ended and the children’s area was relocated to the second level.
In February 2026, explaining the Sunday closure, Takala stated that people were distributing drugs inside the Central Library and that drugs were being dealt openly beside the children’s area.
The Board held a special meeting on June 18, 2026, to hear from the public after the pilot. CUPE 932, which represents HPL workers, spoke in opposition, as did numerous public delegates.
Ward 2 Councillor Cameron Kroetsch and then-citizen member Kojo Damptey were the two votes against the policy on March 11.
The next Library Board meeting is October 21. Anyone wishing to delegate on the policy must register by the end of tomorrow, October 14.
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Published: October 13, 2026
Last updated: October 13, 2026
Author: Joey Coleman
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