| Want to know more? The FAQs have you covered. |
The Ōtara Library, located inside the Ōtara Town Centre at 46 Fair Mall, has been temporarily closed.
After recent heavy rain led to a roof leak, City Care’s inspection of the library found that some areas of the ceiling need further attention.
As a result, the Library and Parks and Community Facilities teams have decided to pause services at Ōtara Library temporarily, while a full building inspection is carried out. This is to make sure the space stays safe and welcoming for everyone.
The Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board support the temporary closure.
Chair Apulu says, “Our teams have worked together to make the thoughtful decision to close the Ōtara Library until further notice while we investigate issues found with a section of the roof following the recent heavy rain. An engineer inspected the site on Tuesday 13 May 2025. Thankfully, no incidents have been reported.
“Our council staff routinely check all council facilities to make sure they’re safe and accessible for everyone. All council buildings are checked each year, with more detailed inspections done regularly. Every building gets a full check at least once every five years. We’ll share more updates as soon as they’re available.
“In the meantime, all library goers are welcome to visit nearby libraries including Tupu Youth Library (102 Dawnson Road), Papatoetoe War Memorial Library (30 Wallace Road) or Manukau Library (3 Osterley Way).”
A site visit took place on Monday 12 May 2025. City Care, Council, and Facilities teams worked with the Library Manager to support staff and visitors, and to help plan next steps. Health and safety steps are being followed, and the site remains secure while checks and planning continue.
The next day (Tuesday 13 May 2025), a structural engineer checked the building and confirmed there are no major issues with the roof or structure. The focus is on weather tightness (keeping the building dry and dealing with water that’s already gotten in).
Parks and Community Facilities Manager Bill Teaukura says, “Following a meeting today (15 May) our teams have commenced the repair work. The library will stay closed while the work is completed, but we’re aiming to safely reopen right after. Looking ahead, a full roof replacement at 46 Fair Mall is planned for the next financial year — a big step toward solving the weathertightness issues for good.”
Temporary closure FAQs
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Why is the Ōtara library closed?
The Ōtara library has been temporarily closed from Monday 12 May, to allow for a full inspection and repair of the roof, following signs of wear and damage. This is a precautionary step to keep everyone safe.
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Is it safe?
Yes, this closure is a proactive measure. No one has been harmed, and this step is being taken to ensure the building remains safe for staff and visitors in the long term. A structural engineer confirmed there are no major issues with the building.
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How long will the library be closed?
Not long! We are currently carrying out a full building inspection. Once our team’s complete remedial works and do final checks, the library will reopen shortly after. Our beloved library kaimahi will be operating out of Ōtara Arts and Music Centre (OMAC), Te Puke Ōtara and other nearby libraries, so if you have any questions, you are welcome to visit them there for assistance.
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Why wasn’t this issue found earlier?
Our buildings are regularly checked as part of routine maintenance. Recent weather prompted a closer look, which helped us spot signs that the roof needed more attention. A full roof replacement at 46 Fair Mall (which includes the library) is planned for the next financial year — a big step toward solving the weathertightness issues for good. The Ōtara-Papatoetoe local board has been strongly advocating for improvements in the Ōtara Town Centre area, advocated for investment in urban regeneration and improvements.
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Can I still borrow and return books?
Yes! We’re working to set up alternative services, such as a temporary pick-up/drop-off point or mobile library services. Stay tuned for updates on when and where these will be available.
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What happens to my current loans?
Loan periods have been extended, and no overdue fines will apply while the library is closed. You can check your account online or contact us for help.
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Where can I go instead?
Nearby libraries are open and ready to welcome you (Tupu Youth Library (102 Dawnson Road), Papatoetoe War Memorial Library (30 Wallace Road) or Manukau Library (3 Osterley Way). You can also access a wide range of digital services anytime at Auckland Libraries website.
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Will library events still happen?
Events are on hold until the library is safe to re-open. We’ll post updates on our social media.
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Who can I contact if I have questions?
Our beloved library kaimahi will be operating out of Ōtara Arts and Music Centre (OMAC), Te Puke Ōtara and other nearby libraries, so if you have any questions, you are welcome to visit them there for assistance.
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Will the library look different when it reopens?
No big changes are being made, so the library will look much the same when it reopens.
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How can I keep using library services while the building is closed?
You can still use your library card at any other Auckland Libraries location and access eBooks, audiobooks, and other online resources anytime through our website.
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Can I still use Wi-Fi or printing services?
These services aren’t available at Ōtara Library right now, but nearby libraries offer free Wi-Fi, printing, and computer access.
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What’s happening with other library services like the Justice of the Peace (JP), classes, and Storytimes?
Some services will move nearby — the JP will be at the Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB), and licence classes at Te Puke. Others, like Storytimes and Wriggle & Rhyme, will pause until the library reopens.
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