Food insecurity is a growing issue in Canada. Inadequate or insecure access to nutritious food has a significant negative impact on mental, emotional, social and physical health. Public libraries have a long history of working to address community issues, including food insecurity. They connect community members to information and resources, offer programs that teach food skills, host community gardens and occasionally distribute food.

Hamilton Public Library (HPL) is working with three Masters of Public Health Students, Kiara Pannozzo, Moizza Zia Ul Haq and Maiura Muralitharan, to identify the most strategic and impactful approaches for addressing food insecurity and to complement the ongoing efforts of other organizations in Hamilton who are working to reduce food insecurity.

This study involves a literature review of public libraries and food security programs, an environmental scan of food initiatives in Hamilton, and interviews with leaders involved in these initiatives. The project will produce a report to support HPL in making informed decisions about its food security programs.