Hinton's public library first opened on January 12, 1970 and was housed in the Harry Collinge High School. In February 1984, Hinton Municipal Library opened its doors in its own facility and has proudly served its community ever since.
Some of the exciting innovations that have occurred are:
In 1989, the library became fully automated.
In 1991, the video collection was added.
In 1994, the Armchair Travellers series was launched.
In 1995, 14 CD-ROM's & Internet service became available to HML patrons.
In 1997, a Technical Services partnership with Harry Collinge High School (part of the Grande Yellowhead Public School Division) provides all Hinton high school students with a free 1 year membership.
In 2000, the Library published Picture Hinton, a collection of local stories & pictures as a fundraiser toward a Library expansion.
In December 2000, the library switched from the Mandarin Library system to the Dynix system upon becoming a member of the Yellowhead Regional Library system.
In March 2006, after years of planning and fundraising by the Board, Hinton Town Council gave their unanimous approval for the Library expansion and renovation project.
Thanks to an Alberta Centennial Legacies grant, a Federal Cultural space grant, a contribution from Yellowhead County, and a partnership with Hinton Adult Learning and Literacy, the project became feasible.
The Library operated from a temporary location while the work was done and was ready to open its doors again in mid September.
The new features included a new entrance, a new circulation desk with a workroom close by, RFID technology and self check-out, an Archives room, a new children's library area, a program room, a Video Conferencing suite, quiet study space and offices, and meeting spaces for Hinton Adult Learning and Literacy.
The grand opening on October 27, 2006 was attended by many and the ribbon-cutting was done by MP Rob Merrifield, MLA Ivan Strang, Mayor Glenn Taylor, and Board Chair Peter Lanosky.
In January 2009 the Polaris Library system enabled Hinton Library patrons to access the TracPac online catalog and a huge array of online services.
In February 2014, the library celebrated it's 30th anniversary!
In November 2014, the library received a grant from Telus, allowing us to purchase iPads and video game consoles for public use.
In 2019, we opened up our new quiet study study spaces to the public.
In March 2021, we unveiled our new makerspace, giving patrons access to a 3D printer, and sewing and embroidery machines!
In April 2022, the meeting room was renamed to honour Tom Peterson, a local historian and friend of the library.
In January 2023, the library eliminated late fees to enhance access for patrons of all demographics and backgrounds.
In February 2024, the library celebrated it's 40th anniversary.
