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Fully Certified
Ashburton Library
General Information
2 Baring Square East, Ashburton 7700
03 308 7192, library@adc.govt.nz
Opening Times - Check before visiting as might change
Monday 8.30am - 6pm. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 8.30am - 8pm. Friday 8.30am -6pm. Saturday and Sunday 10am -4pm
Overview
Te Kete Tuhinga/Ashburton Library, located in the heart of Ashburton in our wonderful purpose-built building, Te Whare Whakatere. You will gain access to a vast world of books, audio, digital resources, as well as our Makerspace, AV Studio, meeting rooms, community groups, programmes, and activities. Membership is completely free, so join today!
Notes for Cardholders
Please call or email us if you have any further questions about our facility or would like to organize a group visit. We would be happy to discuss how we can support you in having the best experience possible.
Standing and Queuing
If you are unable to queue and there is a line, please feel free to present your Hāpai card to one of our friendly team members. They will either allow you to skip the queue or find you a chair.
Level Access
Our building offers largely level access throughout, with one built-in ramp and two lifts. Accessible parking is available, and the best entrance is our main entrance on Baring Square East.
Distances
Our building is quite large; however, there is plenty of seating available throughout that you are welcome to use. We have 3 accessible parking spaces outside the main entrance on Baring Square East, and an additional 18 parking spaces on Baring Square East. We also have an onsite wheelchair and two walking frames available for your use. The wheelchair and one walking frame are located at the Havelock Street entrance, while the second walking frame is just inside the door at the Baring Square East entrance.
You are welcome to call us from your car at 03 3087192, and we will be happy to bring a mobility aid out to you or assist you with bringing your books into the building. Our team is also happy to help choose books for you if you are finding it difficult to stand or move around the shelves.
Urgent Toilet Access
All toilets in the building are unisex. We have two accessible toilets and six standard toilets, including the dedicated parenting room toilets, located on the ground floor. On the first floor, we have two accessible toilets and four standard toilets.
If you present this icon to us, we will be happy to direct you to the appropriate toilet and discreetly ensure that you are next in line to use it.
Disability Assist Dogs
We comply with New Zealand law regarding Disability Assist Dogs. All registered Disability Assist Dogs are welcome to enter our business venue. Accepted proof of registration includes either the visitor’s Hāpai Access Card displaying the icon shown above, or presentation of registration documentation, along with the dog wearing its relevant service jacket (coat/vest/harness).
Essential Companions
There is no charge to enter the library or to attend our programmes. However, some programmes and services may have a material cost recovery. Your companion will not be charged unless they are participating in the activity or using the service independently.
Difficulty Accessing Visual Information
Our staff are well-informed about adapting their communication and assisting individuals who are blind or have low vision. They will be happy to advise on reading options, such as audiobooks, eAudiobooks, eBooks, and large print books.
Difficulty Accessing Audible Information
Through the training staff have received with the Hāpai Access Card, they are aware of how to communicate effectively with you. This includes ensuring you can see their face when speaking, speaking clearly, using pen and paper, and being patient.
Hidden Disabilities
Please feel free to approach any of our team members to let them know how we can assist you in enjoying your visit to the library. We welcome visits from individuals, large groups, and organisations with specific accessibility needs. Please contact us in advance, and we will be happy to arrange for a staff member to create a free, bespoke tour or activity.
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