Greerton's new library is proving a hit with the public, breaking visitor number records right from opening day.
In total, more than 4000 bookworms have visited the library in its first three days of operation, with 2600 people on Friday, followed by another 1000 on Saturday and then 500 on Sunday.
About 200 people braved the chill for the opening of the new, revamped Greerton Library on Friday morning. Photos: Andrews Campbell
'This was up from around 500 people per day during the week and 200 on Saturday mornings visiting the old library – and the Sunday figures will rise once more people realise the library is now open seven days,” says Tauranga Libraries Manager Jill Best.
The positive feedback about the new library is also overwhelming and Jill says it's clear from the way the community has enthusiastically embraced Greerton's new library that they are still 'a much-loved and highly valued part of our lives, even in the digital age”.
'Greerton Library is a great example of how libraries have evolved to become community knowledge hubs, offering traditional book-based services; activities for children and adults; spaces to read, study, and meet friends; community history; and centres for people to access the internet and learn more about digital technology.
'We are thrilled that Greerton's fantastic new library is being enjoyed by so many people,” says Jill.
The brand-new building was opened on July 15 with a special community event.
The new library is twice the size of the old library, and is a modern, engaging and vibrant facility for the Greerton community.
In addition to library services, the new library includes a community meeting room and Learning Centre, for people to learn about IT and technology and improve their digital literacy..




8 comments
Needs more staff and a coffee shop?
Posted on 19-07-2016 09:57 | By BullShtAlert
Will the new mantra be that the library now needs more staff and while we're at it a coffee shop? I can't wait to see how many childrens books aren't returned with the new no fines policy, but being billed as lost after 28 days? I doubt very much that a rates funded organisation that won't even charge a minimal fine, will actually bill and collect money for books after 28 days. Let's wait and see. Sorry to seem argumentative but Tauranga seems determined to continue to spend up and this new facility is an example of that.
@BullShtAlert
Posted on 19-07-2016 15:04 | By morepork
A coffee shop is not a bad idea. Why would you oppose that? If kids books are not returned it is pretty simple to refuse any further lending on that account until the bill is paid. It's far too early to judge the success (or otherwise) of this policy. I'm a Ratepayer; I think it is good that Greerton got what they were asking for and the Community is showing interest and support for it. When you think of all the other ways our Rates are wasted, this seems like the most innocuous...
PROPOGANDA AND SPINDOCTORING
Posted on 19-07-2016 15:17 | By ROCCO
Totally unnecessary and a complete waste of money as usual but then what would you expect from these wombats.Trying to justify the unjustifiable as usual.
Stop gap measure
Posted on 19-07-2016 15:23 | By Gigilo
The building is only half the size it should be taking the potential growth into consideration, opportunity lost.
@ morepork
Posted on 19-07-2016 21:53 | By BullShtAlert
it would be totally unfair for a business (coffee shop) to be run on library premises in competition to hard working businesses in the area that pay rates. As for unreturned kids books, let's wait and see, but my bet is that bills won't be paid and borrowing privileges won't be suspended. The library takes a large percentage of our rates. Anyone might think this city doesn't have debt.
@ Gigilo
Posted on 20-07-2016 10:42 | By Crash test dummies
You are dreaming about something else? The fact is that Libraries are like dinosaurs, time is limited, fate is certain and not a lot of time left. Even the Library mob at TCC know this, yet they still seek to make it bigger, more, larger and more. They are all trying to self justify a job and underlings to self enhance their own positions and provide a buffer to rationalizing. They will all congregate and self gratify all. The numbers were more than usual but the numbers given are exaggerated by all accounts. The prime purpose of visitors is to read the free newspaper and get a free coffee. Not a lot to do with books so making the numbers double dribble.
Good for the community = bad for 1%ers?
Posted on 20-07-2016 14:37 | By C. Zhang
Here's a community shared resource, the only non-commercial space open to all that provides families, job seekers, elderly, researchers and more with a safe place and resources they couldn't afford on their own
C.Zhang, no not Mr M Guy
Posted on 20-07-2016 19:16 | By Murray.Guy
Clearly c.Zhang doesn't know me or just chooses to be mischievous. I don't hide, lurk in the shadows or use false names to cast spread poison.
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