Looking to shake up your weekend plans? Across Tāmaki Makaurau, there's a wonderful network of 57 libraries that exists thanks to rates funding. All are unique and cater to their community – perhaps you haven’t checked out a library for a while? There’s never been a better time to visit.
Auckland Council Libraries are a haven of surprise and delight. So why not wrap up a trip to a library that you’ve never been to before, with an outing to a part of Auckland you’ve never been to before. Consider it a chance to step out of your usual routine, discover new books, new places and new corners of Auckland.
Call a friend, bring the whole whānau or head out solo, and choose from coastal gems to leafy hideaways. Here are eight new or recently upgraded libraries that are worth the journey (with a few local highlights to make the trip extra special).
NORTH
Mahurangi East Library
Best reads, non-fiction or fiction? Mahurangi East Library is now revamped with new library sections and a variety of great reads for Aucklanders to enjoy.
Start your trip north with a visit to Mahurangi East Library, a cosy and community-focused spot that was renovated just last year. This location now offers an upgraded children’s area and fresh new layout for all Aucklanders to read and relax in or even work remotely. The new space also caters to the use of bigger tables for those keen on boardgame action - chess anyone? Plus, the community hub this library is located in offers a brand-new indoor sports venue, bringing joy not only to the bookworms, but also local groups, schools and the wider community looking to get active.
The greenery outside Mahurangi East Library helps to make a warm atmosphere as you come in to find your next best read.
For an outdoor adventure nearby, visit the Goodall Reserve to combine your library visit with a nature walk, skate park or community garden; enjoy a stop at an art gallery or sculpture trail along the way or a coffee at one of the nearby cafes.
Ōrewa Library
Have you been to Ōrewa Library recently? The refurbished library is the place to be when you're in the area.
You’ll light up at Ōrewa Library, and not just because the natural light floods this space, this location invites you to stick around for a little longer. The recent upgrades here have resulted in a new mezzanine floor which houses the teen collection, space to work from your ‘home away from home’, study or read. The mezzanine also includes a large room which can be divided into two spaces offering flexibility and opportunity to use this venue as needed by staff and the wider community.
The multi-level interior of Ōrewa Library makes accessing and enjoying your favourite books a joy with multiple areas to tuck away and get lost in your next reading journey.
Head straight from the shelves to the sand. Ōrewa Beach is perfect for a swim, stroll or fish and chips picnic. A great excuse to check out a book and the view.
EAST
Glen Innes Library
Community gatherings at Glen Innes Library show how important spaces like these are for connecting with people in your area.
Glen Innes Library is buzzing with energy. It’s a place where people go not just to read, but to connect, learn and create at this modern hub that reflects the diversity of its community. With a fresh new roof, this welcoming, spacious and sunny location is perfect for enjoying a good read, working remotely, listening in on a Storytime with library staff or joining a community group like Cook the Books, a monthly get-together to try new foods and celebrate cultures.
Explore the nearby Te Ara Ki Uta Ki Tai shared path which links the suburb to the waterfront or enjoy the local eateries and discover the neighbourhood beyond the shelves.
Flat Bush Library
Flat Bush is now welcoming the community to visit and enjoy the great book collections on offer.
A new chapter awaits out at Flat Bush, as more permanent community facilities including a pool, library and community centre are on the way. Meanwhile there’s the interim Flat Bush Library to satisfy all library-related needs; printing, e-collections, public computers, free wi-fi, events, browsing collection, and, as with all Auckland libraries, the ability to request items from anywhere across the Auckland Council Library network.
Flat Bush Library has comfortable areas to kick back and unwind with a good book or two.
Flat Bush Library is located right in the Ormiston Town Centre, bringing endless opportunities to peruse at your hearts content, with a children’s playground directly outside the library or check out the nearby Barry Curtis Park just across the road.
CENTRAL
Remuera Library
You never know who you will end up meeting at Remuera Library, potentially even a superhero or two.
At Remuera Library you’ll find heritage charm, with its elegant interiors and cosy reading areas. A recent seismic strengthening project included a refresh of the interior with new carpet, paintwork and restored wooden shelving, adding to this delightful environment in which to sit and relax, read a book or magazine or join in one of the many group activities on offer. Call in to view the beautiful tukutuku panels created by Te Puāwai weavers from Ngāti Whātua to mark the recent centennial of this special heritage library.
As you enter Remuera Library, take a moment to appreciate the historical exterior of the building.
After your visit, enjoy the idyllic village by browsing the boutique shops along Remuera Road or stop for brunch at one of the many cafes nearby. Combine your visit with a gentle climb up Ōhinerau (Mt Hobson) to enjoy magnificent views of the Waitematā and beyond.
Point Chevalier Library
The new library at Point Chevalier is now open for Aucklanders to visit and stay a while.
For another inner-city option, check out the new modular library located in the coastal suburb of Point Chevalier. This interim library ensures all the services, and literary adventures are available for visitors and readers while plans are under way for a new facility. Stop by for a browse, and when you check out the next title on your reading list you can it read it in the nearby courtyard featuring new seating and gardens.
Head further down Point Chevalier Road to the beach end and explore the area further with a stroll along the stunning coastal walkway; stop for a play with the whānau at Coyle Park or Eric Armishaw Reserve. If world-class attractions are more your speed, then be sure to visit the local highlights: Auckland Zoo, MOTAT and Western Springs.
WEST
Titirangi Library
Titirangi Library has a great kiddie area for young ones to play and imagine.
Nestled among the Waitākere Ranges, Titirangi Library is as inspiring as the landscape that surrounds it since recently reopening its doors to Aucklanders following refurbishments. With stunning views overlooking Manukau Harbour, this library offers a newly refreshed library space and an exciting new programme of events, ensuring there's something for everyone – from early literacy sessions for tamariki and whānau to community activities and lively book chats. Stop by for a visit and celebrate this newest chapter of Titirangi Library.
And while you’re there, wander the Titirangi village galleries, grab a coffee or head into the Waitākere Ranges for a bush walk. This is a place where both you and your imagination can run wild.
Blockhouse Bay Library
Not just serving as a library but a information hub, Blockhouse Bay Library is a connector to what is happening in the local neighbourhood.
At the heart of its neighbourhood, Blockhouse Bay Library continues to be a much-loved gathering place where visitors stop by to borrow books, connect, learn, create and discover. Recent upgrades have made it an even more welcoming spot for all ages and a varied programme of offerings include children’s activities like Pokemon Club, community meetups including book clubs, crafty workshops and for older community members after cognitive stimulation there's BrainCharge. This is a library that knows its audience and always has room for newcomers.
Take a stroll through Blockhouse Bay Beach Reserve or visit the local shops. It’s an easy-going outing with plenty to enjoy nearby.
Auckland’s libraries provide endless opportunities for discovery, connection and life-long learning. Challenge yourself to step outside your usual chapter; visit a library you’ve never been to, explore a new neighourhood and know that adventure awaits, of books and much more.