Te Aka Mauri library and children's health hub open day. Photo/File
Today I visited the new library for the first time and I am afraid I fully agree with a previous writer, Pauleen Wilkinson (Letters, March 8).
If it was the council's main purpose to impress, than it has succeeded extremely well, as it is a real showcase. Is it practical?
No way, if we compare the present set up with the previous library or even the temporary one, then elderly people, especially those with walking problems, will tell you that this is a step backwards.
Firstly the parking outside. On both sides of the street it made parking for three cars, whereas with a different layout there would be in total room for 18 cars. Nobody will be impressed, words fail. Then there is a long walk to the entrance. Okay I guess for young people on fine days, bad for elderly any time. Once inside there is no slot handy for returning books. I did find one on the opposite wall.
Everywhere there were notices in Maori with English underneath. Seeing only a very small percentage of residents speak only Maori, one would expect English at the top.
Then suddenly a very large TV screen sprung to life showing the mayor. Honestly, who goes to the library to see the mayor?
