Birkenhead Public Library

Birkenhead Public Library is a public library in North Shore located at the intersection of Rawene Road and Hinemoa Street. The building houses extensive collections with over 300,000 items covering various topics and formats.

The library was founded in 1949 and began in the basement of Council Chambers with just 1,500 items. It became the first public library established in North Shore City.

The library carries both an English and Te Whare Matauranga o Birkenhead name, reflecting how the community acknowledges Māori language and culture. You will notice this bilingual approach in signage and materials throughout the building.

The building features a meeting space that can accommodate up to 25 people for community gatherings and events. It helps to check ahead which rooms are available and how best to access the building when you visit.

From 1982 to 1992 the library ran a mobile service using a Bedford van that brought materials throughout the community. This service distributed over 163,000 items to people who might otherwise have had limited access to library resources.

Location: North Shore

Inception: 1949

Website: http://shorelibraries.govt.nz/Visit-Us/Birkenhead-Library.aspx

GPS coordinates: -36.81572,174.72669

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:46