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Auckland Libraries (Largest Library Network in NZ)

Auckland Libraries is the largest public library system in the Southern Hemisphere, with over 55 branches across the region. Membership is free for anyone living in Auckland, including international students.

✔ Free Membership for International Students

All international students living in Auckland can join Auckland Libraries for free. You only need proof of your local address.

Main Central City Libraries

• Auckland Central City Library (CBD)
• Newmarket Library
• Parnell Library
• Grey Lynn Library
• Onehunga Library
• Mt Albert Library
• Avondale Library
• Glenfield Library
• Takapuna Library
• Birkenhead Library

Additional branches are located across South Auckland (Manukau, Papatoetoe, Ōtāhuhu), West Auckland (Henderson, Westgate), and many suburban areas throughout the region.

Services Available

• Free Wi-Fi
• Quiet study spaces
• Public computers
• Printing & scanning (small fee)
• Borrow up to 35 physical items
• Access to e-books, audiobooks, journals & research databases
• Free workshops, resume classes, IT training & language groups

📖 How to Join Auckland Libraries (Free)

You can join online or in person. Membership is free for all Auckland residents, including international students.

You will need:

• Passport or valid ID
• Proof of Auckland address (tenancy agreement, utility bill, or institution letter)

Steps to join:

1. Visit: www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz
2. Select Join the Library
3. Complete the online form
4. Visit any Auckland Libraries branch to collect your card (bring ID and proof of address)

🧑‍🎓 Why International Students Should Join

• Free and reliable study spaces
• High-speed Wi-Fi
• Access to academic journals & research databases
• Improved English reading and comprehension
• Safe, quiet environment for study
• Free digital learning tools

🌐 E-Libraries in New Zealand

Many premium e-library platforms are free with your Auckland Libraries membership. You can access thousands of digital resources for study, research, and entertainment.

1. Libby (OverDrive) – E-Books, Audiobooks, Magazines

A large digital collection of fiction, non-fiction, magazines, and study materials.

• https://www.libbyapp.com/
• Auckland Libraries OverDrive

2. BorrowBox – E-Books & Audiobooks

Popular platform offering books from major publishers and study-support materials.

• https://www.borrowbox.com/

3. PressReader – Global Newspapers & Magazines

Access 7,000+ newspapers and magazines including NZ Herald, The Guardian, and more.

• https://www.pressreader.com/

4. LinkedIn Learning – Professional Courses

Thousands of free courses across IT, design, software, business, English, and engineering.

• Auckland Libraries – LinkedIn Learning

5. Kanopy – Free Movies & Documentaries

High-quality films, documentaries, and academic videos.

• https://www.kanopy.com/
• Auckland Libraries Kanopy

6. Gale Databases – Research Journals

Access academic journals, research articles, newspapers, and reports.

• Auckland Libraries – Gale

7. Britannica Library – Online Encyclopaedia

Reliable reference articles, summaries, and study guides.

• Auckland Libraries – Britannica

8. AnyQuestions – Live NZ Librarian Service

Real librarians available online to help NZ students find information (Mon–Fri, 1–6pm).

• https://anyquestions.govt.nz/

9. DigitalNZ – NZ Heritage Collections

Search engine for NZ videos, documents, artworks, newspapers, and cultural archives.

• https://digitalnz.org/

10. National Library of New Zealand – Digital Collections

Access historic newspapers, archives, government publications, images, and more.

• National Library Digital Collections
• Papers Past – Historic NZ Newspapers

🎓 Auckland Libraries – Digital Access

To access most e-libraries, you must be a member of a New Zealand public library. Auckland Libraries membership is free for international students living in Auckland.

Join here:

• Join Auckland Libraries