Takapuna Library

The Takapuna Library might not be the most sophisticated pr architecturally pleasing library out there but it holds a very dear place in my heart.
I remember coming here frequently as a child right through to when I was teenager. I spent hours in the children’s section, which is huge and not only has books but also has toys and puzzles and well as videos (perhaps now dvds?) and CD’s you could get out too.
I fondly remember being mesmerised by the tropical fish aquarium. They had the longest tails — just the ones of Fantasia!
Nowadays I still frequent the Takapuna library, whether it’s to get books out or just to sit and do some work in the blissfully quiet study area.

My first visit to the Takapuna Library was for a Wriggle and Rhyme when my little boy was only a few months old. They still do I realise have the class once a week, during school term and it is a fabulous way to meet other mums on the shore, or in your area. This class takes place in the upstairs corner section where the children’s books can be found.
Since that visit many months ago, I have been back a few more times with the little guy as I find the children’s section has a nice space with lots of great puzzles and books for my little boy to interact with.
With easy access via the elevator you can take you children in with your pushchair if they are of the preschool age, always great for the mums or dads.
Another plus for me, is that the library is located footsteps away from the beautiful beach, so on a sunny day I prefer to get some books and puzzles out from the library and then enjoy them down at the beach for some amazing scenery.
The library has a café attached to the entrance as well for a bite to eat or a drink, so good to keep in mind– if your on a study break or on the go.

This library has been part of my life right from the start. As a youngun my parents would take me into the kiddies section where I’d sit in the bean bags, play with the toys and read Peter Rabbit books. As a teenager I’d trawl through their CD collection and make all sorts of angsty selections. As a sixth former I’d share the study spaces along with half of the school and make far too much noise for a library! It was during those «study» sessions that I got to know my current girlfriend, so the place holds all sorts of fond memories.
Among all those fond memories has been one constant — no, not the motherly librarians, but a homeless bloke who shall be known as Bob. Any frequent visitor to Takapuna Library knows of Bob — he can usually be found having intense debates with the magazines upstairs…

Takapuna Library reminds me of my school days. And I do actually feel a bit weird when I go back in there. Nothing to do with the library, it’s me I think. As far as libraries go it’s probably situated in one of the best locations — a one minute walk from Takapuna Beach.
The Library itself is nice and open, no pokey little rooms just big, airy and light. The service is lovely. You know the standard ladies that make you feel like they are your nanas and you just want to be clutched to their bosom.
It is pretty big and has a good selection of books. There is an area upstairs for the kiddies where pillows and bean bags fill a corner and you can just sit and chill the day away. There are also quiet study areas for students. The only issue I have is that some things are hard to find, but this might be me being not very good at libraries rather than their fault.
There’s also a little café at the entrance with good coffee. Lovely.