The library is comfortable, nicely decorated and next to great shops, cafes and the cinema if you get bored. And trust me, the likelihood of you getting bored is rather large. Don't get me wrong, I love books and sitting down with one to travel to a galaxy far, far away. BUT, they don't usually have that book which will transport me there. It's a good thing they are next to Whitcoulls in that case, so at least you may be able to buy that book and take it home. There are far better libraries in Auckland, but if you're desperate for a quiet corner and have no particular book in mind, wonder on in. read more

Botany Library - Libraries Near Me - Auckland, AUK

This is my least favourite library out of the Auckland Libraries that I've been to, and I've been to qutie a few (at least 10). It's small, never has any of the books I want available when I happen to pop in (and I always have a massive ongoing list of books I want to read), and it has a weird layout that doesn't seem to flow naturally. On the plus side, being next to Whitcoulls, if you saw some books in the shop that you wanted to read but not quite enough to want to buy, you can pop into the library and request them (because let's be real, they won't have them on the shelf) while they're still fresh in your mind. Also, a good point is that being part of Botany Town Centre means it's open longer hours, and at least one night a week a JP (Justice of the Peace) is available if you need documents verified. Super handy and no need to book, just turn up. read more

This is my local library, and almost my favourite ( I really like Howick Library too). Whilst it seems smaller than some others, they always seem to have books which I cannot resist. I will be returning 2 books today which I have completely read since collecting them 2 days ago. The staff are invariably helpful, especially in providing coffe for our monthly U3A book club meeting. In earlier days, my complaint was that this branch seemed to be confused about its purpose, and did not discourage people lounging around cluttering up the space for no apparent reason. Now, that has changed and it is just what I believe a library should be - a quiet place for book selection and contemplation! Moves to make a library a social centre are, in my opinion, misguided! read more