Meet the Author
Karenna’onwe — Dr. Karen Hill
Tuesday, September 29
5:00pm - 6:00pm
West Harbour Branch
West Harbour- The Medicine Wheel CircleJoin Karenna’onwe — Dr. Karen Hill, as she shares her new book, The Good Mind.
Join Karenna’onwe — Dr. Karen Hill, as she shares her new book, The Good Mind, about her mother who was born during the Depression on Six Nations of the Grand River Territory. Hill, an award-winning Mohawk physician and advocate for traditional Indigenous knowledge, will be in branch to chat with library visitors. Books will be available for purchase on-site, or feel free to bring yours for signing.
Karenna’onwe (Gaw-law-naw-oo-way) Karen is a Mohawk physician from Six Nations of the Grand River Territory. She is the mother of two sons and stepmother to five daughters. She completed medical school in 2003 and a Family Medicine Residency in 2005 – both from McMaster University. Her passion is to see Traditional Indigenous Knowledge return to the centre of life and healthcare for Indigenous people across Canada. In 2015 Karen became the first recipient of the Thomas Dignan award for Indigenous Health conferred by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons. In the same year she also received The College of Family Physicians Excellence Award for leading the way in Indigenous collaborative care in primary practice. Also, in 2016 she was honoured by McMaster University with a Community Impact Award.
West Harbour Branch
The temporary West Harbour Branch at Pier 8 (formerly the Canadian Marine Discovery Centre) officially opened Wednesday, July 29, 2026. This space will offer core Library services, programs and an Indigenous-focused collection of books and resources, an 'Intention of Water' art installation, and create opportunities to connect, learn and gather on the waterfront.
The long-term Discovery Centre Project Study is underway. Hamilton Public Library and the City of Hamilton's Indigenous Relations Division, in collaboration with consultant Lord Cultural Resources, are developing a Program Design and Development Study to guide the future of the site. The vision includes a new library branch, an Indigenous gathering space, a café and visitor amenities.
Community input will continue to shape this work through public outreach and updates. Study recommendations are expected to be presented to City Council in 2027.
Note that the patio is not available for use at this time. Please enjoy indoor seating by the windows facing the lakefront.
