Did you know that there’s over 1.2 million pukapuka (books), magazine, eBooks, eAudio books and eMagazines available from your local library?
And that’s just a taste of what Western Bay of Plenty District Libraries have on offer.
There are four libraries spread across the Western Bay in Te Puke, Ōmokoroa, Katikati and Waihī Beach, so there are no excuses for not dropping in.
And now is the time to get back to your library according to Team Leader Libraries (East), Amanda-Jane McFadden.
“Your local library has a lot happening, maybe more than you know. In the last year our library network has run holiday programmes, reading, and colouring competitions. We’ve hosted Sir Edmund Hillary’s Hut Virtual Reality Experience and had be-spook Halloween activities.
“We want everyone to know, they’re welcome at our community libraries and we’re sure to have something that’ll interest you.”
One of the most exciting recent changes was our libraries going fine free in 2022. This included wiping the slate on over $21,000 of historic debt from 2589 library users.
This means there are no overdue fines for borrowed items, apart from rental items: DVDs and Top Shelf books. And any old fines from items, holds and rental items (DVDs and Top Shelf books) have also evaporated.
Team Leader Libraries (West), Julia Edgecombe says these bills were slashed in a move to encourage the community to get back into the library and reading again.
“Our libraries are here for our communities. We don’t want anything stopping people from visiting.
“To anyone who’s stayed away because of old fines, please don’t hesitate to come in. We’re here to help and we want you enjoying your favourite pukapuka (books) again.”
In 2022 there were 316,516 pukapuka (books) borrowed from our libraries and the team is hoping to increase that number in 2023.
Events and activities are also back in full swing. Adult events include computer classes (one on one and group), knit and natter, scrabble groups, and book chat. And for the younger ones we have code clubs, story times, school holiday events and much more.
Community services like the Justice of the Peace clinics at Te Puke, Waihī Beach and Ōmokoroa Libraries and Te Puke Library’s AA Service Desk are also back in 2023.
The Citizens Advice Bureau will also be joining the crew at Te Puke later in 2023. Look out for details coming out soon.
Check the library website and Facebook page to see all events and community services.
Joining or re-joining, the library is super simple. Pop into your local library with your photo ID and proof of your address. In less than 10 minutes you’ll have access to our entire collection.
Check out your local libraries at libraries.westernbay.govt.nz
