Record visitor numbers at libraries

BY CARLY TAWHIAO

An economic downturn may be bad for business but it’s doing wonders for the local library.

Figures released by Auckland City Council show a sharp increase in library visitors and book issues since January.

Branch libraries in Avondale, Blockhouse Bay, Epsom, Grey Lynn, Ponsonby, Mt Albert, Onehunga and Pt Chevalier have all had record visitor numbers during the last eight months.

Overall there has been a 10 percent rise in walk-in customers and inquiries and a 7 percent rise in book issues between July 2008 to June this year.

With 4.3 million walk-ins and 5.7 million issues recorded during the year, general manager Allison Dobbie says the trend could be attributed to the latest credit crunch, however efforts of library staff need acknowledgment too.

"The more rapid increase is probably because of the recession and people being aware of how to stretch their income. But we’ve been putting a lot of effort into our collections and I think these things are gradually bearing fruit," she says.

"We are creating vibrant community spaces where local people feel that they belong and feel comfortable in."

The Mt Albert library, which was built in 1975, had the highest increase in book issues of all the branch libraries at 13 percent.

During school holidays 1000 more people came through the doors than usual and to cater for its diverse migrant community, services are also offered in Mandarin.

There are 11 computers that operate on a booking system for free internet access as well as self-scanning machines to make issuing books quick and easy.

Sarah Glen joined the library recently and says it has opened a whole new world for her.

"I love reading, and with times getting a bit tough economically, the library is a great option for me to read lots of new and old books, all for free," she says.

"The library is a nice clean quiet environment and it’s near my work so I can easily get there at lunch time.

"It’s also a great place to find out what courses are on or what’s happening in the community."

Ms Glen says the need to slash her book-buying habit was painless thanks to the library’s extensive range of books.

"I’m able to get out a few books on one subject, instead of figuring out which one I can afford to buy."

There are some disadvantages, however.

"Sometimes someone has already got the book out so you have to be patient and there are too many options of what to read.

"There’s only so much time, and only so many arms to carry books home.

"But like the old saying goes, the best things in life really are free."

- © Fairfax NZ News