Memories shared as Napier Library prepares to move

Lovers of the library have been asked to record their favourite memories on a Tree of Memories collage. Photo/Supplied

Book lovers are being asked to share their fondest memories of the Napier Library.

A "Tree of Memories" collage has been set up near the entrance way to the Station St library and library manager Darran Gillies said he had been touched by the range of recollections the community is jotting down on paper "leaves" to add to the tree.

"We've had children writing about their first visit to the library or how they remember playing chess there with their dad.

"Adults recall some of their experiences with the range of clubs we host on site, or the time taken by a staff member to lend a hand with their search for something specific.

"And our staff, too, have plenty of vivid and often funny memories of working at the Napier Library."

Staff had now started " the big pack-down" as they prepare to move premises.

The library will remain open throughout November and December, closing at midday on December 22. The library will reopen in its new location, at the rear of the MTG Hawke's Bay building, on Wednesday, February 7, 2018.

"The close-down period gives us ample time to move our stock, shelving and staff across to the new facility, to set up in the new space, familiarise our staff with the new space and test that our services all operate well before we reopen," Mr Gillies said.

Library fans will not be left high and dry, however. An extended borrowing period would begin on December 1 so people could get their summer reading sorted early.

Borrowers would be able to check out books from either Napier City or Taradale Library right through December, with three months to return them.

"We're encouraging the community to take advantage of the longer borrowing period nice and early, and select a stack from our wide range to take to the beach or read out in the garden this summer."

Cardholders will also be able to choose from several new book drop-off locations: MTG Hawke's Bay, the National Aquarium of New Zealand, Kennedy Park Resort and Taradale Library. More drop-off locations are likely to be confirmed in coming weeks.

He pointed out that Taradale Library would remain open throughout the summer "although will close for Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and 1st and 2nd January only," confirmed Mr Gillies.

"Our summer reading programme continues as well, in its new location at MTG Hawke's Bay's Education Suite, and that starts on December 27. E-books, newspapers, and the latest magazines can still be accessed too, via the Napier Library website."