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Across Franklin is a network of rural libraries run by their own communities. Community-led (sometimes called rural) libraries have their own membership and borrowing and returning systems which are separate to Auckland Libraries’ membership.
There are currently 11 across the Auckland region, with seven of these in Franklin. Amongst the ongoing construction and roadworks, a passionate group of volunteers keeps Drury Library up and running. The community-led library opened in 1992, with resident Sue Hudson joining as a volunteer 15 years ago.
“The library has always been here next to the hall and always run by volunteers. We are looking for ways to make the local community more aware of our existence and the hundreds of modern and exciting books we have available to borrow.”
Each school holiday period volunteers run a ‘Children’s Day.’ These events comprise a three-hour programme offering a different theme each time.
Fellow volunteer Annette Williams has lived in Drury for 35 years. The library has more than 100 people on its mailing list, and 15 volunteers running the service.
“I began as a volunteer here about a year ago. I’m also the treasurer for the Drury Community Committee and both roles are a great way to meet people and give back to the community.”
Last month, access to Tui Street via Waihoehoe Road closed while work to realign Tui Street is underway. Access to the Drury Community Library, Drury Hall, and Drury Rugby Club is off Great South Road next to the Mobil garage.
It is “left in, left out” access so anyone coming from the motorway or Drury roundabout needs to follow the signage and find a safe place to turn around.
Hazel Audain is Auckland Council’s community-led (rural) library coordinator and says each community library’s operations tailor to the differences in each community. Some libraries like Drury also run their own fundraisers to help purchase more books.
“Volunteers know what works for their communities, and they really take ownership of these libraries.”
Community-led libraries also have access to bulk loans from Auckland Libraries, allowing members to access a wider range of books.
Recently community-led libraries gained access to the Auckland Libraries’ online request system, offering residents a chance to collect books closer to home.
Books are already checked out through Auckland Libraries accounts and are delivered to community-led libraries by Audain. Returns are only collected from community-led libraries once a week.
Earlier this year, the Clevedon Village Library moved into a new space inside the Clevedon District Centre, at 2 Papakura-Clevedon Road.
The move to its new location was supported by the Franklin Local Board and the Clevedon Association.
Audain says the move has been a “massive change, a really positive one,” in a better location and safer access for families.
