Happy 90th birthday Grey Lynn Library

It’s only fitting Grey Lynn library celebrates its 90th birthday next Saturday 13 December.

“The library was officially opened on a Saturday afternoon so the hard working ‘industrial public’ of the suburb could attend on their half day off”, says community library manager Alola Robertson.

The heritage listed building at 474 Great North Road, has seen its neighbourhood change over the years, but what hasn’t changed is the community’s passion for its library.

“The Grey Lynn Library is much loved and remains an important part of its community,” says Waitemata Local Board Chair Shale Chambers. “It is wonderful to see such a significant milestone celebrated.”

The 1924 building, designed by notable Auckland architect William Gummer, has played host to generations of families including his own. Nine decades after Gummer designed the building his granddaughter Claire Gummer has joined the staff, while his grandniece, Anne Gummer, is a member along with her children Olive and Francis.

“One of the first things we did when we moved to Grey Lynn was to walk down as a family to join our local library,” says Anne.

Everyone is welcome to join the 90th birthday festivities between 12pm-3pm, Saturday 13 December. There will be readings by several local authors from Stephanie Johnson and Anne Kennedy; board games; art activities, live music from the Central City Songbirds choir and the Down Home Girls and a celebration cake.

Ends

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