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Libraries still operating

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Hastings library facilities might be closed due to COVID-19, but thankfully the Libraries team is already set-up so you can access many of the resources online while in lockdown.

Libraries manager Paula Murdoch says being at home for four weeks is the perfect opportunity to explore the digital side of what Hastings’ Libraries have on offer.

“We know that the library is often an important part of keeping your kids occupied and learning, so please know that we are still here to support you while you’re at home,” Paula says.

“We have some great, free resources online for kids, most of which can be found in the Kids E-Library section of our website. These include LanguageNut, where kids (or adults) can practice te reo Māori, Tongan, Samoan, Tokelauan, Vagahau Niue, Cook Islands Māori and more, all from home. We also have World book online and StoryBox available for free on our website.”

But it’s not just the kids who are well-catered for – there’s plenty for adults to get their teeth into, as well. Library staff are still working from home, so are available online to help you with queries, Paula says.

“Our online databases are still available, as always, just look for the ‘free information portals’ on our website. We’re also working with suppliers to provide access to some of our databases which are usually for in library use only. If you’re after some local history or genealogy help - our local history librarian is still available to help via email – just send your query to libraries@hdc.govt.nz

Paula says the library also has its eBooks and downloadable audiobooks available, with three collections (ePukapuka, Wheelers and Ulverscroft titles) all accessible from the Libraries’ website. Each collection can be searched individually, or you can search across all three using the Hastings District Libraries app.

“Library staff are buying more digital content at the moment, to ensure there’s plenty to go around. For those with physical books already on loan,  loan periods have been extended and  fees will not accrue while the lockdown is in place. Not normally a message that libraries promote, but people are being asked not to  return your books while library facilities are closed. Just look after them and enjoy them while in isolation, and head to our website for more reading when you’re done.”

The Libraries team is also shifting some of its existing programmes online.

“Our popular Hell Reading Challenge, where kids can get a free 333 Hell Pizza for every seven books they read, is shifting online in the coming days, so keep an eye out for that. Your kids can earn pizzas to enjoy once the Alert Level lowers again,” Paula says.

“We’ll also be running a Bad Art Competition in the coming weeks, as well as a Bakers’ Club event on April 7. Queen Elizabeth II turns 94 on April 21 too, so the challenge will be to bake something a bit fancy in her honour. Keep an eye on the Libraries Facebook page for details of these and other events to keep you and your whānau occupied over the next few weeks.”

The Libraries’ bequest writing workshops’ resources have also moved online - see our Creative Writing Programme here.

To access any of the libraries’ online resources, you’ll need your library card and PIN. If you don’t have or don’t know your PIN, email the Library on libraries@hdc.govt.nz to have it reset. A new digital-only library membership Is now available, which you can join on the Libraries’ website, as well as access to e-resources  - see here to join.

3 April 2020

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Hastings

Monday 10.00am - 5.30pm
Tuesday 9.00am - 7.00pm
Wednesday 9.00am - 5.30pm
Thursday 9.00am - 7.00pm
Friday 9.00am - 5.30pm
Saturday 10.00am - 4.00pm
Sunday 1.00pm - 4.00pm

Havelock North

Monday 10.00am - 5.30pm
Tuesday 9.00am - 5.30pm
Wednesday 9.00am - 5.30pm
Thursday 9.00am - 5.30pm
Friday 9.00am - 5.30pm
Saturday 10.00am - 4.00pm
Sunday 10.00am - 1.00pm

Flaxmere

Monday 10.00am - 5.30pm
Tuesday 9.00am - 5.30pm
Wednesday 9.00am - 5.30pm
Thursday 9.00am - 5.30pm
Friday 9.00am - 5.30pm
Saturday 10.00am - 4.00pm
Sunday CLOSED

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