Friends - Dunedin Public Libraries

In-Site 4 Teens

Heritage Collections

Featured Resources

Dunedin Public Libraries Association
Joining - Benefits - Lunch & Learn - Publications - Need Help?

Introducing the Friends of the Library Every library needs friends and among Dunedin Public Libraries' closest allies is the Dunedin Public Libraries Association, better known as the Friends of the Library. There are more than 300 association members today, working to promote our public libraries. They also lobby on behalf of our libraries, encouraging more use by the public and also helping provide extra facilities for users. Our History The Dunedin Public Libraries Association was formed more than 100 years ago in 1890, by a group of concerned citizens who wished to see a free public library established in Dunedin. The Friends have been active in many ways. They successfully campaigned for the establishment of two new public library buildings - The Carnegie Library, which opened in 1908, and the present City Library which opened in 1981. The current City Library features a colourful stained glass window, designed by the late Shona McFarlane and commissioned by the friends, which can be seen on the ground floor. Members today are as concerned as their 19th century counterparts, with doing all they can to promote our public libraries. Top

How can we help? Material and practical assistance to our libraries is always forthcoming. This can come about through helping at the annual library booksale as well as surveys. Substantial contributions have gone towards the maintenance of rare book collections, along with provision of a drinking fountain, trolleys and baskets, and audio equipment for talking books. The association also administers the Dunningham Trust, a handsome bequest, and the executive has recently authorized grants such as $25,000 to help meet the cost of alterations in the New Zealand Room, as well as $1000 to provide toys for the Children's Library. Top

Benefits for Members Through the Dunedin Public Library Association, there are a number of opportunities to meet and interact with other members. We meet frequently to hear invited speakers. And sometimes the least known speakers give unexpected pleasure. Speakers include: Prominent authors Experts in Scottish heritage, Experts in natural history, Experts in fashion, Also Researchers and library staff. Friends are intouch with members through a Quarterly Newsletter, which gives: A calendar of events, Interviews with staff, News And other related information. Members of the friends group are entitled to a Preview of the annual library booksale the day before other members of the public. And may purchase up to 30 items. Top

Becoming a Member New members are most welcome. Annual membership fees for 2008/2009 are: $15 for a Family or $10 for an Individual Membership forms can be found at the Help Desk on Ground Floor of the City Library, as well at the community libraries. Or to download an Application Form (pdf) Click Here Please post your form to: Dunedin Public Library Association Inc. (Friends of the Library) PO Box 5542 Moray Place Dunedin Top

Lunch and Learn Sessions The Dunedin Public Library Association hosts a regular Lunch and Learn session. These informative sessions include: Author talks, Library staff presentations And a range of other topics. Sessions start at 12.00 noon, and cost $1.50 for members and $3.00 for non-members. Check out our list of forthcoming Lunch and Learn Events Tea and coffee are provided, and you are welcome to bring your lunch. Top

Turn Back the Pages A History of the Dunedin Public Library Association 1890-2005 Turn Back the Pages, by Merle van de Klundert, tells the story of the Dunedin Public Library Association, formed in 1890 to support a free public library. It is one of the oldest and most active groups supporting public libraries in New Zealand. The book provides an interesting account of the growth of the association, and the challenges and successes it experienced in the development of Dunedin Public Library. The vision of its founding members in supporting access to library services for the Dunedin community has been upheld for more than a century, and Turn Back the Pages is a testament to the work of many individuals. Copies of the book are availble from any library in the Dunedin Public Libraries network, and cost $16.00.


Top