"The mayors and library managers that I met with in the Southland and Central Otago region all championed the importance of libraries. They also showed a strong interest in the work we recently commissioned with Frank Advice, Libraries as a Vehicle for Service Delivery. We discussed my visits to libraries across the motu, and the feasibility of their local libraries providing mobile outreach library services.”
Frankton Library’s Lilliput project driven by community action
Pictured: Frankton library's Lilliput boxes
“It was great to meet with Mayor Glyn Lewers and check out Frankton Library. This relatively new library only opened its doors in 2018 and is already planning for expansion.
“A real highlight was checking out Frankton Library’s Lilliput Library project, where six beautiful Lilliput Library boxes decorated by local volunteer artists will pop up to reveal books written in languages from every continent in the world. This celebration of international languages came about from community action and passionate local people donating their time and resources.”
Community libraries provide rural towns access to library resources
Pictured: Millers Flat School Community Library
“When checking our rural Central Otago, I found the partnership between schools and public libraries particularly interesting. It gives small rural communities access to library services and resources that they wouldn't have otherwise. The Maniatoto school community library in Ranfurly and the Millers Flat community library are great examples of this.”
Southland looking to upgrade local libraries
Pictured: Riverton Council Office and Library
"After meeting with Mayor Rob Scott, Councillors and staff I undertook a tour of some of their libraries, including Mataura, Winton, Riverton, and Otautau. All the libraries in Southland are joint library and council services. The Mataura Library Customer Service Centre had been recently refurbished and there are conceptual plans being developed to improve or replace others for the Long-Term Plan. "
Mayor Ben Bell showed a strong commitment to Gore’s library services
Pictured: New Gore Library
“At the time of my visit, Gore was one week away from opening their new Gore Library. It's a beautiful, well-designed building with many modern features, including a large colourful children's area and community facility.
“Ben was particularly keen to talk about libraries going Fine Free. As a result of our discussion, he delivered a late agenda item for the council meeting for a trial period for Fines Free to be announced at the opening of the new library.”