½ HALF STAR REVIEW n The Hamilton Public Central Library has become an uncomfortable and unsafe place for families, students, and regular patrons. What should be a quiet, welcoming civic space is now routinely disrupted by open drug use, particularly in the washrooms. Methamphetamine, fentanyl, marijuana, and cigarette smoke are not subtle — they are obvious, persistent, and seemingly ignored.nThe situation in the washrooms is unacceptable. Floors 2, 3, and 4 are often inaccessible due to people occupying stalls for extended periods while visibly intoxicated. Reporting the issue to staff accomplishes nothing. I have filed complaints, returned an hour later, and found the exact same individuals still passed out or using drugs. There is no follow-up, no enforcement, and no urgency.nn Staff appear either unwilling or unable to intervene. I was explicitly told that security could not remove men from the men’s washroom because no male security was scheduled, and the guards on duty refused to enter. That alone highlights a glaring failure in planning and management. A major downtown public facility without adequate, appropriately staffed security coverage is negligent. The main lobby frequently smells of urine, and the space has effectively turned into a drop-in centre rather than a library. While homelessness is a complex social issue, allowing public facilities to deteriorate into unsafe environments helps no one — not patrons, not staff, and not those in crisis.nn The bigger question is oversight. Who is responsible for security contracts and staffing decisions? Who is holding anyone accountable? The lack of action feels less like oversight and more like indifference or worse.nnBravo, City Hall‼nn This is what neglect looks like.
The library was Amazing very organized and have some great Adult programs and services.
I am so amazed by a library that has a beautiful staff quite polite and informative. As well as the piano room on the second floor, and I just finished booking a slot for a later date on the 4th floor studio recording room... I bless everybody in the world to have this type of library for themselves. And I hope that you all have a great new year in the Brave New World . Prosperity and health and much love to you all.nChristopher Paul SmithnPlease be good to yourself and othersn.
A Central library staff employee named Sarah was very helpful. I was able to get a printout made directly from my phone. She walked me through it step by step. Much appreciated
I had a wonderful experience at the Hamilton Public Library. I especially want to thank Tess, who went out of her way to help me merge my PDF files. She was incredibly kind, patient, and truly looked for a way to help instead of just saying no.nnHer support made a stressful task so much easier, and I really appreciated her willingness to assist with such care and understanding.Thank you so much, Tess!
Hamilton Public Library - Terryberry Branch
3 km
Extremely kind and friendly staff, and an almost serene environment best suited for s...
