Renovations on a temporary West Harbour library branch at Pier 8’s former Discovery Centre are on track for a July 7 completion, though officials caution it will take roughly two weeks after that to move in library materials before a soft-launch opening.
The Hamilton Public Library says the new branch will be open seven days a week, with a minimum of 61 hours of service Monday to Saturday, plus additional hours on Sunday.
HPL Director of Facilities and Sustainability Chad Roglich said July 7, 2026, is the target date for completing renovations, with a soft-launch opening expected near the end of July.
“The renovation work is very moderate. There’s no plumbing, no major electrical [work], it is a refresh,” Roglich said in an interview. “We’re removing some fixtures, we’re patching some walls.”
Following the completion of renovations, he expects it will take approximately two weeks to “bring in the stacks [for library materials], bring in the exhibition pieces, and ensure that everything is ready to go.”
Chief Librarian Paul Takala said the HPL will do a soft-launch opening as soon as the facility is ready.
HPL Board Member Nick van Velzen said the planned 61 hours per week, plus Sunday hours, is good news for the community.
“I’m very happy about the quick, anticipated opening,” van Velzen said. “I’m thrilled about the anticipated 61 hours of opening every week – especially the Sunday opening for what we can call a destination branch.”
The HPL will be partnering with Indigenous organizations in operating this temporary branch, and consultations with the community are ongoing.
The Discovery Centre will operate as a library branch for the foreseeable future.
Future Permanent Branch Planning Continuing
The HPL is planning a new permanent branch at the same location, which will be incorporated as part of the Waterfront Shores residential redevelopment of the site. The project is paused, with the City of Hamilton and the Waterfront Shores corporation citing the slowdown in the housing market. The nine-phase development will see approximately 1,500 new residential units built.
The overarching vision for the permanent facility includes the standard library branch, a dedicated Indigenous gathering space, cultural heritage exhibition areas, an on-site café, and various visitor amenities.
Hamilton architectural practice DPAI has recently taken over as the design sub-contractor for the long-term design and viability study for this Indigenous-focused facility. The firm replaces Brook McIlroy, which ceased operations and entered into bankruptcy in April 2026. DPAI will operate as a sub-contractor to Lord Cultural Resources, the primary consulting firm hired to lead public engagement, programming, and design.
The study, which is being conducted in partnership with the City of Hamilton Indigenous Relations Division, began in the fall of 2025. Final results and a complete master plan are expected to be presented to Hamilton City Council in 2027.
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Published: June 13, 2026
Last updated: June 13, 2026
Author: Joey Coleman
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