Library cat returns home

Benjamin lived at the old Devonport Library for a decade and now has a new home. Photo / Doug Sherring

The design of Devonport's new library is just purr-fect for its resident cat.

Celebrated architect Sir Ian Athfield included special provision for Benjamin the much-loved library cat in his final work.

Sir Ian died two weeks before the Devonport Library, one of his last projects, opened on February 2. The 74-year-old was considered a leading exponent of modernist architecture during his 50-year career, and had a considerable influence on the face of Wellington.

His company, Athfield Architects, was chosen to design the $7.8 million library, but only after it showed it could cater for the needs of resident cat Benjamin.

Auckland Libraries' customer experience manager Mirla Edmundson said the friendly feline had been part of the community for more than a decade after "making himself at home at the [previous] library one day, quite of his own accord".

"Community consultation on plans for the new build provided plenty of feedback that we must make sure Benjamin is provided for."

Athfield Architects was asked to do a concept design for the building in a tender process in which the entry must cater for a "contented tabby cat curled up inside the new building".

The identity of the design companies was kept from decision-makers.

"Ath was a passionate supporter of libraries, believing in the power that knowledge and learning offers to people.

"He was involved in reviewing that first concept design and handed the remainder of the project over to his talented team here in Auckland."

They included a cat door in the staff workroom door for Benjamin.

The door, which cost "a few hundred dollars" is programmed to Benjamin's microchip so only he can use it.

"During the day, Benjamin can come and go as he pleases.

"At night time he will only have access to the staff workroom, via his cat door."