On Friday, 11 November, Auckland City Libraries celebrated 125 years of library service. Take a look at some photos from the celebrations, or follow the links below to find out more.
Auckland City History | History of Auckland City Libraries | Heritage Images Online
Did you know... | Media release
Check out the local history of these community libraries library: Grey Lynn, Mt Albert, Mt Roskill, Onehunga, Panmure, Ponsonby
The free public library service originally opened in 1880 at the Mechanics Institute on the corner of Chancery Street and Courthouse Lane. On 26 March 1887 new premises on the corner of Wellesley and Kitchener Streets were officially opened. The photo captures the occasion. This beautiful Victorian building now houses the Auckland Art Gallery, Toi o Tamaki.
 The city’s first Free Public Library was opened on September 1880 at the Mechanics Institute on the corner of Chancery Street and Courthouse Lane.
Two years later the extensive Sir George Grey collection was gifted, providing the basis for the country’s foremost public library service today.
In 1887 the Auckland Free Library moved to new premises at the Corner of Wellesley Street East and Kitchener Street, where the Auckland City Art Gallery is now situated.
The current Central City Library opened on its Lorne Street site in 1971.
7 November 2005
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