Our National Library

The National Library of New Zealand Te Puna Maatarangi O Aotearoa is our library. It belongs to all New Zealanders and houses some fantastic collections, runs some fascinating exhibitions, hosts tours and provides resources to libraries throughout New Zealand. They don't only do this from their home in Wellington, but 24/7 via their website above, plus through offices in Auckland and the South Island. Currently in Rodney they have been helping the new Primary school at Snells Beach set up their library.

The National Library has its foundations in the General Assembly Library formed in 1858 to serve Members of Parliament. Today's Library was created in 1965 when The National Library, the Alexander Turnbull Library, the General Assembly Library, and the National Library Service were brought together. It's aim is that New Zealanders are connected with information important to all aspects of their lives.

From the start page for the library you can explore the images, information, resources, events and going's on at the library. Sign up as a friend of the Library and receive their regular newsletter. And if you are ever down in Wellington, put a visit to Te Puna as well as a visit to Te Papa on your "to do" list. I hope to do exactly that sometime in 2009.

"Mā mua ka kite a muri; Mā muri ka ora a mua.
Those who lead give sight to those who follow; Those who follow give life to those who lead."