Facilities  |  8 Oct 2019

Share this story

Oaklands School students have discovered a new world of learning at Te Hāpua: Halswell Centre.

With their school library closed because of site redevelopment, the students have been making the most of their local community library during class visits.

Oaklands School Principal Margaret Trotter says that Te Hāpua is an amazing facility on the school community’s doorstep and one they can easily enjoy.

“Oaklands School librarian Trish Ward approached Te Hāpua staff to arrange the visits, which have been popular and fun,” Mrs Trotter says.

“The purpose of the library visits was to give students the chance to borrow books and other resources, and to get a library card for those students who don’t already have one.

“During the visits students tour the library and learn about what it can offer.

“We are really lucky to have such a great facility in our community.”

Christchurch City Council Acting Head of Libraries and Information Erica Rankin says staff have enjoyed the class visits and the opportunity to share information about all the wonderful things the library has to offer.

“It has been great having the tamariki in their community space as we help them find out more about our electronic resources, books and programmes, and also meet new people from the community,” Ms Rankin says.

“Staff have enjoyed the interaction, including guiding the children to specific genres of books as part of a reading challenge. Many books have been issued – along with lots of happy smiles.”

Ms Rankin says there has also been a significant increase in local library membership.

“The school has been encouraging families to get their children a library card so that we can issue books during the class visits,” Ms Rankin says. “So when parents and caregivers come in to arrange the cards, they often also sign up the rest of the whānau.”

During their visits, students have toured the whole centre to learn all about the pool, cafe, community rooms and Service Centre, along with the wide range of library resources at their fingertips.

“It has been a wonderful opportunity to encourage greater community communication and collaboration,” Ms Rankin says.