The Library collection contains over 3 million images depicting the history of Hamilton and surrounding areas dating as far back as the mid-1800s. At least 20,000 mounted photographs are available to be requested for viewing.
Approximately 13,000 images have been digitized and are available for viewing online here.
The Library has also provided detailed information about the various photograph collections on its website. These are listed alphabetically under “Photograph Collections” and can be found here.
The Library holds the daily negatives of the Hamilton Spectator, dating from 1955–1998, as well as special interest negatives from the Spectator. The special interest negatives are arranged by subject. The Woods Collection contains photographs of Hamilton and the surrounding areas, including fire department pictures. The Library has detailed Finding Aids for the photograph collections.
The Library also has a Postcard Collection, categorized by subject and with Finding Aids in the Library. The collection includes cemeteries, churches, fire department, military, schools, and a general collection of Hamilton postcards.
Digital Sites
The Library created a number of digital sites that are available online through the Library website. These are archived, curated sites housed on the Library & Archives Canada website. Please click here for more information.