Libraries are often seen as the hub of a community and, although the doors were shut during lockdown, their importance remained.
"We saw an increase in membership and a great many returning members," says Napier Libraries manager Darran Gillies.
He says that, as an industry, the libraries will be collectively looking at what they can do to continue to enable access. With the Taradale library up and running, including Sunday opening hours, members can access digital platforms which add real value to people's lives, Gillies says.
"We have our fantastic e-book and e-audio collection, video stream service Kanopy, as well as great new databases such as Bridget Williams Books, Critical Issues and New Zealand History."
They have also started running classes in the library again to support that access as well as Facebook live sessions and walk-in help. Gillies says the community has been very patient with the additional step of scanning the library card on arrival to support contact tracing.
