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The Search for Tiny Libraries in New Zealand | RTÉ Radio 1 Extra

Wednesday 29th July 2015 at 8am – The Search for Tiny Libraries in New Zealand

Dotting the countryside of New Zealand are dozens of tiny libraries – freestanding buildings that serve as meeting places, resource centres and lending libraries for the smaller regions located between larger urban areas. While New Zealand’s national public library culture thrives, these unassuming structures, having survived regular floods, aging populations, and the rise of the internet, continue to do what libraries do best: provide books for curious readers, and at the same time provide a backbone to their communities.

Usually no larger than a bedroom or small garage, the tiny libraries sit quietly, awaiting visitors. Some are open just an hour or two per week, or month, for a handful of users; others attract regular borrowers and eager volunteers; still others generate income that feeds back into the local economy. Housed in computer-free eclectic structures, and stocked from floor to ceiling with shelves full of official documents, vintage literature sets and donated paperbacks, each library is looked after by a few devoted caretakers who have held and shared their library keys for years – often decades. And each tiny library tells a particular story about New Zealand’s past history and present culture, and represents the distinct nature – and quirks – of its community.

Library enthusiasts, Julie Shapiro and Miyuki Jokiranta, travel around New Zealand, seeking out these tiny libraries, meeting the steadfast librarians and trustees responsible for keeping the lights on and the books in circulation, and exploring the stories behind these enchanting, tiny institutions.

(Produced by the BBC World Service)