The library is fully accessible with an elevator and accessible parking. Free parking is available on King Street and Elgin Street.
The library has a large collection of books, DVDs, audiobooks, periodicals, video games, and digital resources. We offer space inside the library for independent study, teamwork, and community gatherings. The library hosts revolving art exhibits in the atrium and there are chess tables and pieces throughout the main level to enjoy alone or with a friend. In the adult fiction room patrons can sink into comfortable chairs to read or find a spot at our rotating puzzle table. In the teen area, visitors are invited to check out our teen magazines and large graphic novel collection, in addition to the latest teen fiction. There is also a table where small groups can play one of the many board games in our collection. In the children's room, families can read together on our comfy couch, put on a puppet show, check out our WonderBooks and Launchpads, make a bookmark, or play with one of our many activity kits.
The Port Colborne Public Library — a relaxing space to read, work, collaborate, and explore.
Hours of operation
- Monday, Tuesday, Thursday — 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Wednesday, Friday, Saturday — 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
If you need help, please call us at 905-834-6512 or email us and we will respond to your questions as soon as possible.
Holiday hours
We are closed the following days in 2026.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| New Year's Day | Thursday, January 1, 2026 |
| Family Day | Monday, February 16, 2026 |
| Good Friday | Friday, April 3, 2026 |
| Easter Monday | Monday, April 6, 2026 |
| Victoria Day | Monday, May 18, 2026 |
| Canada Day | Wednesday, July 1, 2026 |
| Civic Holiday | Monday, August 3, 2026 |
| Labour Day | Monday, September 7, 2026 |
| National Day for Truth and Reconciliation | Wednesday, September 30, 2026 |
| Thanksgiving | Monday, October 12, 2026 |
| Remembrance Day | Wednesday, November 11, 2026 |
| Christmas Eve | Thursday, December 24, 2026 |
| Christmas Day | Friday, December 25, 2026 |
| Boxing Day | Saturday, December 26, 2026 |
| New Year's Eve The library is open from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. |
Thursday, December 31, 2026 |
| New Year's Day | Friday, January 1, 2027 |
Administrative contacts
- Rachel Tkachuk - Chief Executive Officer
- Loraine MacDonald - Library Services Manager
History
The library was first established in 1876 when The Mechanics Institute of Port Colborne opened at Town Hall. The library changed locations throughout the years until finally, in 1957, the Arabella Williams Memorial Library opened at 310 King Street.
The block of land was originally purchased by John Williams from William Hamilton Merritt for $825 in the 1860s. In 1948, Arabella Williams deeded the land to the Town of Port Colborne. The gift was conditional that her home be turned into a library, and the rest of the property be used as a park. The gift was made in memory of her brother Emanuel.
The library soon outgrew Arabella's home. The current building was built where the family orchard once stood. The new library featured outdoor seating, large windows, and an auditorium. Renovations over the years added an atrium, access ramps, and moved the main entrance from Elgin Street to King Street.
The library is nestled on what is now known as the Cultural Block. It is bounded by King Street to the east, Catharine Street to the west, Elgin Street to the north, and Princess Street to the south. The Cultural Block consists of the Public Library, the Port Colborne Historical and Marine Museum, Arabella's Tea Room, the Carriage House, L.R. Wilson Heritage Research Archives, a park, and a host of historic buildings.