Auckland Libraries blog

Have you ever imagined seeing your own story in a book? This is now a reality for adult learners at Literacy Waitākere! Auckland Council Libraries, in partnership with Literacy Waitākere , is proud to present three new titles in the series "Stories of our Lives: Tō Mātou Ao, A Mātou Pūrākau". These short, heartfelt books were written by adult learners themselves, right here in Tāmaki Makaurau. About the new books From Bamyan to Auckland by H. Dawlatyar H. Dawlatyar writes about his experience of living in the Bamyan Province, Afghanistan, and the journey his wife and six children took to New Zealand in 2022. Extraordinary by Vi'ia Tovia Su'a Lupo Vi'ia was born in Aotearoa New Zealand and is proud to be of Samoan and European heritage. She was born with cerebral palsy but doesn't let it define her. She has gained qualifications in tourism and continues to work towards achieving her goals. The River by MJT MJT recounts experiences growing up in Ngāruawāhia, ...

  Auckland Libraries is helping to provide stress-free internet access to households without a broadband connection. Auckland Libraries is a local partner for Skinny Jump , a programme that provides access to modems and a subsidised prepaid wireless internet connection. It is available to anyone who does not have a broadband connection at home because cost is a barrier. "We already provide access to free WiFi and public computers within our libraries, but we know internet access at home is a much more effective way to address digital inclusion. "Helping to bridge the digital divide is incredibly important to Auckland Libraries, which is why we jumped at the chance to get involved with this programme" says Digital Solutions Lead, Philip Miles . Skinny Jump participating libraries Albany Village Library Avondale Library Botany Library Central City Library Epsom Library Glen Eden Library Glenfield Library Glen Innes Library Helensville Library Mahurangi East Li...

Our family history librarians love to help people solve mysteries about their ancestors! For better or worse, you never know what you might find when you start digging into the past. Uncovering family secrets might seem scary, but the rewards far outweigh the risks. Enjoy these stories that illustrate the good that can be done when our research resources and expertise are deployed to uncover family stories and bring people back together. Family history success stories  Tracking down family in a foreign land Determined to find information about her New Zealand birth father, in 2017, a woman flew from her home in Japan to Auckland and asked the team at Tāmaki Pātaka Kōrero Central City Library for help. Her father served in J Force – the New Zealand force that took part in the occupation of Japan at the end of WWII. With only a few names and photographs to work from, Seonaid (Senior Family History Librarian), Miyuki (Senior Library Assistant) and other staff, with assistance from Auc...

Looking for budget-friendly ways to bond with your kids, keep them engaged and help them discover new passions? That little rectangle in your wallet – yes, the library card – is the key.  The library has everything your kids need to unwind, explore their interests and create lasting memories. Here’s how you can transform those "I'm bored" groans into "Wow, this is cool!" moments! Get creative at the library's Makerspace Many Auckland Council libraries have amazing Makerspace areas, where kids can get creative with 3D printers, sewing machines, and all sorts of techy tools. Imagine your child designing their own app or whipping up a funky tote bag!  Various tech is available at different libraries, and some pre-booking is required while others allow walk-in use.  Free fun at library events  We’re busy keeping kids busy! Libraries are constantly buzzing with fun activities, especially during school holidays. Some libraries even offer after school activities l...

Dreading the drag of a long journey? Or love having the time to yourself? Public transport can be a great time to unwind or catch up on tasks.  Whether you're craving relaxation or want to make the most of your journey, here are some ideas to leverage your commute with the amazing resources available for free with your Auckland Council library card! Recharge on the go: library e-resources for relaxation  Sometimes, the best use of your commute is simply to de-stress. This time is yours. Sit back, relax; embrace the hum of the engine and the world passing you by.  Here are some ways your library card can help you unplug and unwind – just don’t miss your stop!  Immerse yourself in a story Pop on some comfy headphones and get lost in an eAudiobook . With your library card, you can access hundreds of free titles online, from captivating fiction to insightful non-fiction. Carve out some ‘me time’ by listening in peace to true crime, steamy romance or even self-help b...

Can’t get enough of the Bridgertons? The glitz and glamour? The all-consuming drama of the ton? The hit Netflix series is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Julia Quinn’s world of hot scandal, true love and unshakable duty. Whether you're a devoted Bridgerton fan or a newcomer to the world of Regency romance, these books are sure to make you swoon faster than Cressida Cowper at a ball. This spoiler-free list contains all the books in and around the Bridgerton series, so you can keep your fire burning until the next season graces our screens.  The original Bridgerton books Why not start with the captivating tales of the Bridgerton siblings themselves?  If you're keen to relive the beloved narratives seen on Netflix or eager to get ahead before the next season, these books offer an immersive journey into the world of the Bridgertons. These nine novels by Julia Quinn let you dwell among the family's charming exploits for as long as it takes to turn each page. The duk...

Mānawatia a Matariki Winter brings a time for reflection and celebration in Aotearoa. The Matariki star cluster rises in the winter skies, marking the start of the Māori new year. Traditionally, Māori astronomers meticulously observed the night sky, weaving celestial movements into all facets of life. Matariki wasn't just a new year, it was a time for whānau to reflect on the past year, plan for a bountiful harvest, and celebrate with kai, kōrero and entertainment.  Matariki is a special time to come together, acknowledge and reflect on the year and look ahead to the future. Read on to discover a constellation of library events and books to help navigate the Matariki season in 2024. Books about Matariki As winter chills settle in, why not cosy up with a book from your library and delve deeper into its rich meaning? Grow your understanding before the festivities begin with free online access or by visiting a comfy spot in your local branch.  With these recommended reads, c...