Puke Ariki Library is your go-to destination in New Plymouth for knowledge and community activities. Located at 1 Ariki Street, it offers easy access and convenient parking options. You can visit Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 6 PM, with extended hours on Wednesdays. The library boasts diverse collections, including heritage photos and a rich digital library of eBooks and eAudiobooks. Plus, you'll find community events, workshops, and support services. Membership is free for Taranaki residents, allowing you to borrow up to 40 items. There's so much more to explore here that'll enrich your experience!
Major Highlights
- Puke Ariki Library is located at 1 Ariki Street, New Plymouth, easily accessible via public transport and nearby parking options.
- The library features diverse collections, including heritage items, eBooks, and digital resources for research and education.
- Community events and activities, such as workshops and children's programs, engage visitors of all ages.
- Free membership is available for Taranaki residents, with visitor membership options for non-residents.
- The library operates Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 6 PM, with extended hours on Wednesdays until 8 PM.
Location and Access
Puke Ariki Library is conveniently located at 1 Ariki Street in New Plymouth, New Zealand, making it easily accessible from both Ariki Street and 65 St Aubyn Street. This central location places you right in the heart of New Plymouth, close to other community libraries and mobile library routes, enhancing your access to resources.
If you prefer public transport, you'll find several options nearby, allowing for hassle-free visits. However, if you're driving, the library offers convenient parking options.
The Puke Ariki north car park, accessible from St Aubyn Street, features a partially covered area with designated mobility parking spaces. For just $3 an hour from 9 am to 5 pm, you can park comfortably while you explore the library's offerings.
Payment is simple, too, as you can use coins or credit cards at the parking machines. Plus, if you hold a mobility card, you'll enjoy double time allowance in the mobility parking spaces.
With ramps and elevators ensuring accessibility throughout the building, your visit to Puke Ariki Library will be both easy and enjoyable.
Opening Hours
When planning your visit, knowing the library's opening hours is important. Puke Ariki Library operates from Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM, and Saturday and Sunday, 9 AM to 5 PM.
However, on Wednesdays, you can enjoy extended hours until 8 PM, giving you extra time to explore.
If you're visiting during the holiday season, be aware of the special holiday hours. The library will be open on December 23 and 24 from 9 AM to 5 PM but will be closed on December 25 and 26.
It reopens on December 28 and 29, maintaining the same 9 AM to 5 PM schedule. After the holiday period, normal hours will resume.
Keep in mind that community libraries may have varying schedules, so it's best to check their specific hours if you're heading to one.
Also, the museum and i-SITE keep consistent daily hours from 10 AM to 5 PM, ensuring you can plan your visit accordingly.
Always check the official website for any updates on hours, as they're subject to change.
Collections and Resources
You'll frequently find that Puke Ariki Library boasts a diverse array of collections and resources designed to cater to various interests and needs.
With a strong emphasis on heritage significance, the library houses a large collection of photographs, artworks, and archives that tell the stories of the Taranaki district. You can explore the Heritage Database for taonga Māori and reference books that enrich your understanding of the area.
Additionally, digital access enhances your experience. You can enjoy thousands of eBooks and eAudiobooks through popular apps like BorrowBox and Libby.
Here's a glimpse of what you can discover:
- Heritage Collections: Access to Taranaki Stories and unique local artifacts.
- Digital Library Resources: Over 790,000 titles on Hoopla, plus films and documentaries on Kanopy.
- Research Resources: Subscription databases for family history, health, and educational topics.
- Specialized Databases: Passenger List Database and the Taranaki Research Centre for in-depth research.
With such extensive collections and resources, Puke Ariki Library truly serves as a knowledge hub for everyone.
Community Services and Activities
At Puke Ariki Library, community services and activities are designed to engage and inspire people of all ages. You can participate in regular community events like Crackerjacks for under 5s every Wednesday, Baby Rhymes for toddlers on Thursdays, and exciting Minecraft and LEGO® Clubs for children aged 8-12 and all ages, respectively.
During school holidays, the library hosts crafty sessions to keep young minds busy and creative.
In addition to these fun activities, Puke Ariki offers essential legal services. You can access the Justice of the Peace on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays for assistance with witnessing signatures, making declarations, and certifying documents.
Every Monday, Community Law services provide support for legal inquiries, ensuring you have the resources you need.
For those looking to enhance their skills, various workshops and tech help sessions are available, focusing on everything from 3D design to interactive storytelling.
With special groups like the Migrant Women Meet and Scrabble Club, there's a sense of belonging for everyone. Puke Ariki Library truly fosters community connections and creativity.
Membership and Borrowing
Puke Ariki Library not only offers engaging community activities but also provides a straightforward membership and borrowing system that welcomes everyone.
Whether you're a Taranaki resident or just visiting, you'll find membership accessible and beneficial.
Membership benefits include:
- Free membership for Taranaki residents and property owners.
- Visitor membership available for $23 every three months.
- Ability to borrow up to 40 items at a time.
- No overdue charges for children's and youth cards.
When it comes to borrowing guidelines, you can check out books and audiobooks for four weeks.
Magazines and DVDs are available for one week, while bestsellers and eBooks have a two-week borrowing period.
Renewals are easy; you can do it online, in person, or over the phone—up to two times if no one else has reserved your item.
If you're in need of something specific, you can reserve items and receive notifications when they're ready for pickup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Fees for Overdue Items?
Yes, you'll incur overdue fines for late items: 50 cents per day for books and $1.50 for DVDs. To avoid charges, consider item renewal before the due date and stay updated on your returns.
Can I Reserve Items Online?
Yes, you can make online reservations with your library membership. Simply log into your account, search for the item, and place a hold. You'll get notified when it's ready for collection.
Is There a Printing Service Available?
You might think printing's too complicated, but it's not! You've got plenty of printing options, from A4 to A3, in various document formats. Just send your files or use library computers for seamless service.
How Do I Become a Volunteer?
To become a volunteer, check for available volunteer opportunities and submit your application. Stay committed and reliable, follow guidelines, and be prepared for background checks if required. Contact the organization for specific details on the application process.
Are There Study Rooms Available for Public Use?
There aren't any designated study rooms available for public use. You might find alternative spaces, but you'll need to check the booking process at other libraries if you're looking for specific study room features.
Conclusion
In conclusion, visiting the Puke Ariki Library is like diving into a treasure chest of knowledge and community spirit. Whether you're exploring its diverse collections or participating in engaging activities, there's something for everyone. With convenient access and welcoming staff, you'll feel right at home as you uncover new ideas and connect with fellow learners. So, grab your library card and embark on your next adventure in New Plymouth's vibrant knowledge hub!
