Book & Collect available through lockdown at Davis Library

Published on 03 September 2021

Book lovers are now able to borrow items from Whanganui libraries thanks to a new Book & Collect service.

Book & Collect is a contactless, personalised library collection service that operates when physical library buildings are closed to the public, such as during COVID-19 alert levels 3 and 4.

The service can be accessed by emailing book&collect@whanganuilibrary.com, using the online form on the Whanganui District Library Te Whare Pukapuka o Whanganui website at https://bit.ly/3yCJNFk or by calling 06 349 1000.

District libraries manager Pete Gray says a small, socially-distanced library team will work from the Davis Library, filling a bag of books, magazines and audiobooks based on suggestions from library users and their previous reading history. Customers will then be able to collect their book bag from the foyer of the Davis Library at Pukenamu Queen’s Park. Pick-up times are between 10.00am and 4.00pm weekdays.

“We know books and reading can be especially important to people while staying at home during lockdown and we are pleased to be able to offer this service,” Pete Gray says.

“Library staff are experienced at selecting books and will do their best to match your reading preferences but the more information you give us about what kinds of things you want to read, the better.”

All due dates for books issued before COVID-19 Alert Level 4 will continue to be extended until library buildings reopen. The Book & Collect service is only available for pick-up from the Davis Library. One person only per household bubble is asked to collect their book bag.

All items available through Book & Collect are free. The library will continue to deliver books to home service customers under COVID-19 Alert Level 3.