Hakeke Street Community Centre & Library: Knowledge and Community in Whanganui

Hakeke Street Community Centre & Library, located in Whanganui East, is your go-to spot for knowledge and community connection. Since opening in January 2019, this vibrant hub has welcomed over 10,000 visitors, providing a safe space for diverse groups to gather. With free internet access, engaging educational programs, and a mobile library service, it fosters a love for reading and learning. Community events and partnerships further enhance its impact. Whether you're seeking resources, support, or a way to connect, there's something here for everyone. Curious to find out what else this amazing center has to offer?

Major Highlights

  • Hakeke Street Community Centre & Library opened on January 23, 2019, fostering knowledge and community engagement in Whanganui East.
  • The centre has hosted over 10,000 visitors during its fifth anniversary celebrations, showcasing its role in the local community.
  • It offers diverse programs, including digital literacy, health services, and child care, promoting accessibility and well-being for all residents.
  • The library provides free internet access, desktop computers, and a Home Service for housebound members, enhancing community literacy and resources.
  • Collaborations with local organizations and community members ensure sustainable development and support for vulnerable families in Whanganui.

Location and Contact Information

The Hakeke Street Community Centre & Library is located at 65 Hakeke Street in Whanganui East, New Zealand. This prime location offers significant benefits, as it's nestled within a vibrant community area, making it easily accessible for local residents.

You're just a short walk or drive away from other community facilities, enhancing the convenience of your visits.

If you want to reach out, there are several contact methods available. You can call them at 022 096 5673 or use the alternate number 022 689 2459.

For email inquiries, drop a message at hakekestlibrary@gmail.com. They also maintain an active presence on social media, particularly through their Facebook page, where you can stay updated on events and programs.

For venue hire, you can contact the Hakeke Street Community Centre directly for bookings.

If you have questions regarding community programs, the Whanganui Advocacy and Support Trust (WAST) is your go-to contact.

For library-related inquiries, the Whanganui District Library is available to assist you.

With these location benefits and contact methods, connecting with the Hakeke Street Community Centre & Library is straightforward.

History and Milestones

The Hakeke Street Community Centre & Library opened its doors in January 2019, marking a significant milestone for the community.

Since then, you've seen its growth, from a modest collection of books to a bustling hub with over 10,000 visitors in just five years.

Community partnerships have flourished, highlighting the center's role as a vital resource and gathering place for everyone.

Opening and Growth

When Hakeke Street Community Centre & Library opened its doors on January 23, 2019, it marked a new chapter for Whanganui East. This self-service innovation transformed the former New Zealand Railways complex into a vibrant hub for knowledge and community engagement.

Here are some key milestones since its inception:

  1. Initial Collection: The library started with around 2,000 adult and children's books.
  2. Visitor Growth: In just five years, attendance skyrocketed from several thousand in 2019 to over 10,000 in 2024.
  3. Community Integration: Celebrated its fifth birthday in February 2024 with engaging community activities.
  4. Expanded Services: The centre continually adapted to meet the growing needs of the community, including a mobile library service for book deliveries.

From the beginning, the Hakeke Street Community Centre & Library has prioritized accessibility, offering self-service machines for checking out and returning books.

With free WiFi and a touchscreen computer for managing library accounts, it's become a vital resource. This evolution underscores its commitment to enhancing community well-being and fostering connections among residents.

Community Partnerships Established

Building strong community partnerships has been essential for the Hakeke Street Community Centre & Library to thrive. You'll find that these collaborative efforts have significantly impacted various community initiatives, fostering a sense of belonging and support.

The centre has established fruitful partnerships with organizations like Love and Learn Care and Education, securing vital funding from local businesses and community members. This financial backing helps sustain the centre's growth and outreach.

In collaboration with the Whanganui District Library, the centre extends library services in Whanganui East, offering over 2,500 books and free internet access. This partnership plays a crucial role in boosting reading rates and providing educational resources to the community.

Moreover, the centre engages individuals through activities that alleviate loneliness, such as hosting groups and maintaining a community garden. Events like mini golf and bouncy castles encourage participation while advocating for vulnerable whanau and individuals.

With guidance from Social & Co., the centre has developed strategic plans aimed at self-sustainability, focusing on creating ownership and removing barriers to access. These partnerships highlight the centre's commitment to enhancing community well-being and resilience.

Anniversary Celebrations Highlighted

Celebrating five vibrant years since its opening, the Hakeke Street Community Centre & Library marked this milestone with an exciting event on February 1, 2024. The anniversary celebration was a true reflection of community involvement, drawing over 10,000 visitors and showcasing the centre's growth and impact.

The celebration activities included:

  1. Free Ice Creams – A sweet treat for everyone!
  2. Bouncy Castle – Fun for kids and a nostalgic joy for adults.
  3. Mini Golf – A playful competition that brought smiles.
  4. Hurdles – A fun physical challenge for all ages.

This event not only highlighted the centre's commitment to serving the community but also celebrated its journey from just a few thousand visits in 2019 to over 10,000 today.

The strong participation from whānau and community members illustrated the sense of belonging fostered by the centre. It reflects its mission to break down barriers and promote positive mental well-being.

As plans for future expansion loom, the anniversary celebration serves as a reminder of the impactful role the Hakeke Street Community Centre & Library plays in Whanganui.

Community Services Offered

At Hakeke Street Community Centre & Library, you'll find a variety of services designed to empower and support the community. The centre prioritizes community outreach by advocating for vulnerable whānau, helping them find their voice and alleviating loneliness. You'll have access to essential support services, including free or low-cost counselling that promotes mental well-being and community health.

Here's a quick overview of the community services offered:

Service Type Description
Community Support and Advocacy Advocates for vulnerable individuals and families, fostering confidence and connection.
Educational Programs Offers sign language classes and digital literacy programs to enhance skills and engagement.
Health and Well-being Services Provides counselling and encourages physical activities to uplift community health.
Community Events Hosts open days and anniversary celebrations, engaging thousands of participants annually.
Community Garden Activities Supports growing food for the community, promoting collaboration and sustainability.

Library Facilities Overview

At the Hakeke Street Community Centre & Library, you can easily borrow from a diverse collection of over 2,500 books, ensuring there's something for everyone.

You'll also find free internet access and computers available for your use, making it a great spot for both reading and connecting online.

Plus, participating in community events here not only enriches your experience but also fosters connections with others in your neighborhood.

Book Borrowing Services

While exploring the Hakeke Street Community Centre & Library, you'll find a range of book borrowing services designed to meet your needs.

Whether you're a casual reader or a dedicated bookworm, these services cater to all.

  1. Borrowing Limits: Most members can borrow up to 100 items at once, while temporary memberships have a lower limit.
  2. Borrowing Periods: Standard books can be borrowed for three weeks, but bestsellers and DVDs have shorter periods.
  3. Renewals and Reservations: You can renew items online or via phone, and reserving an item incurs no fees.
  4. Special Services: The Library Home Service brings books to your doorstep for housebound members.

You'll appreciate the thoughtful book recommendations based on popular borrowing trends, ensuring you discover titles that resonate with you.

Keep in mind that while most items are free to borrow, DVDs, CDs, and bestsellers do incur rental charges.

Overdue items will cost you 50 cents per day, so be sure to return them on time!

With these services, the library is committed to fostering a love for reading in the Whanganui community.

Internet Access Availability

The Hakeke Street Community Centre & Library not only offers a variety of book borrowing services but also ensures you stay connected with free wireless internet access available around the clock. This wireless connectivity is essential for enhancing your digital literacy, whether you're browsing for information or working on a project.

Here's a quick overview of the internet access facilities:

Facility Type Details
Wireless Internet Free access, 24/7, no charge (Terms of use apply)
Desktop Computers Free to use, limited to 30 minutes (45 with a card)
Printing Services Available at 20c per side

You can enjoy multiple sessions per day, though you might not get the same machine each time. While the desktop computers come with web browsers and office applications, data from previous sessions is wiped to ensure privacy. Plus, power outlets are available to charge your devices, ensuring you're always ready to connect and learn. The Hakeke Street Community Centre & Library is your gateway to both knowledge and community in Whanganui.

Community Events Participation

Throughout the year, Hakeke Street Community Centre & Library serves as a vibrant hub for community events, offering a mix of activities that engage and uplift participants.

Your involvement in these events not only enriches your life but also strengthens community bonds. Here's a snapshot of what you can expect:

  1. Supportive Activities: Join events aimed at promoting positive mental well-being and combating loneliness.
  2. Community Garden: Get hands-on by participating in the community garden, growing food for everyone.
  3. Social Groups: Become a part of various groups designed to help you meet new friends and connect with others.
  4. Advocacy and Support: Engage in initiatives that support vulnerable individuals and families within the community.

Your feedback plays a crucial role in shaping these events.

The centre has expanded its services based on community input, resulting in increased hours and more activities.

By participating, you not only enhance your own experience but also contribute to the overall growth and inclusivity of Hakeke Street Community Centre & Library.

Don't miss out on the chance to connect and thrive!

Community Engagement Activities

At Hakeke Street Community Centre & Library, you'll find a vibrant hub of community engagement activities designed to bring people together and foster connections.

You can participate in various community workshops that offer opportunities to learn new skills, like sign language, while meeting new friends. These workshops are perfect for anyone looking to expand their knowledge and feel more connected.

Social gatherings are also a key part of the centre's offerings, providing a non-judgemental space where you can engage with others and alleviate feelings of loneliness.

Whether it's joining the community garden to grow food or attending a group focused on mental well-being, you'll find plenty of ways to get involved. The centre aims to connect you with helpful agencies, ensuring that you have access to the resources you need.

With an increase in annual visits, you'll see just how essential this space has become for the community.

It's a place where you can't only gain valuable skills but also support your fellow community members in making a positive difference.

Venue Hiring Options

Hakeke Street Community Centre & Library offers a variety of venue hiring options to accommodate your needs, whether for community events, meetings, or workshops.

You'll find flexible spaces with excellent facilities and services:

  1. Alexander Library: Book the Alexander Lounge or main room for gatherings. The lounge accommodates up to 50 people, while the main room fits up to 100.
  2. Gonville Centre Community Room: A smaller meeting space for up to 30 people. It's free for non-profit groups, making it budget-friendly!
  3. Extended Hours: With expanded hours from September 16, you can access venues from 9 am to 4:30 pm on weekdays and 10 am to 2 pm on Saturdays.
  4. Booking Process: Contact the Hakeke Street Community Centre directly to check venue availability and finalize your booking.

These options ensure you can host your event smoothly while benefiting from the community spirit fostered by the centre.

Reach out today and make your next gathering a success!

Impact on Local Community

The Hakeke Street Community Centre & Library significantly impacts the local community, boasting an impressive increase in annual visits from 2,600 to 7,400 over the past five years. This surge reflects a genuine desire for community engagement and empowerment. With nearly 1,000 visits in July alone, it's clear that people are utilizing this inclusive space to connect and learn.

The centre offers a variety of cost-effective or free programs, minimizing financial barriers and encouraging participation from all community members. By serving as a safe, non-judgemental environment, it fosters social cohesion among diverse groups.

You can find resources related to basic needs, mental health, and education, ensuring that everyone has access to vital information and support.

Moreover, the centre's workshops and educational resources enhance your knowledge and skills, contributing to personal growth and community development. It's a hub where you can discover opportunities for collaboration, fostering a sense of belonging and collective responsibility.

As participation continues to grow, the Hakeke Street Community Centre & Library plays a crucial role in shaping a vibrant, empowered community in Whanganui East.

Partnerships and Collaborations

Through strategic partnerships and collaborations, the Hakeke Street Community Centre & Library enhances its services and reach within the community. These partnerships are vital for fostering community outreach and ensuring that everyone benefits from available resources.

Here are some notable collaborations:

  1. Whanganui Advocacy and Support Trust (WAST) – Working together to provide essential services and support.
  2. Whanganui District Library – Collaborating to establish a self-service library, making access easier for all.
  3. Community-led initiatives – Empowering whānau to lead and engage with library activities.
  4. Volunteer involvement – Relying on dedicated volunteers to help manage and operate the centre effectively.

These collaborative programs create a sense of ownership among community members, ensuring that everyone feels included in the library's offerings.

You'll find that community members actively participate in decision-making processes, which strengthens their connection to the space. As the Hakeke Street Community Centre & Library continues to expand its reach, these partnerships remain crucial in building a supportive and inclusive environment for learning and growth.

Future Goals and Developments

As the Hakeke Street Community Centre & Library looks to the future, its goals revolve around expanding services and enhancing community engagement. With new funding secured from the Whanganui District Council, you can expect the addition of two more staff members, which will improve service delivery and allow for extended operating hours.

The centre will also continue to develop its Love And Learn Childcare program, ensuring it meets the needs of families and young children.

Future programming will focus on sustainability initiatives, including the community garden that promotes local food production and environmental awareness. You'll find that the centre aims to increase its free activities and events, fostering a sense of belonging and connection among community members.

Furthermore, the centre plans to enhance its library services, providing even more resources for everyone. By advocating for vulnerable individuals and families, the Hakeke Street Community Centre & Library is committed to promoting positive mental well-being and alleviating loneliness.

As community engagement continues to grow, the centre will strive to secure ongoing funding to ensure these crucial services remain accessible for all.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Library's Opening Hours?

The library's opening hours are Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 4:30 pm, with Saturday from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. This accessibility fosters community engagement and encourages more visitors to explore resources.

Is There a Fee for Borrowing Books?

Imagine shelves bursting with stories waiting for you. In this vibrant library, borrowing policies vary: most books are free, but bestsellers require a small fee. Sign up for library membership to unlock these treasures!

How Can I Volunteer at the Centre?

To volunteer at the centre, explore available volunteer opportunities that match your interests. Engaging in community involvement helps build connections while gaining skills. Reach out to the team for more information on how to get started.

Are There Age Restrictions for Library Events?

Imagine vibrant library events where everyone belongs! You'll find no age restrictions for participation. Whether you're young or young at heart, age inclusivity ensures a welcoming environment to connect and engage with the community.

Can I Donate Books to the Library?

You can donate books to the library, enhancing community support. Just make sure they're in good condition, and consider contacting the library beforehand to discuss the donation process for a smoother experience.

Conclusion

The Hakeke Street Community Centre and Library isn't just a building; it's a vibrant heart that pumps knowledge and connection into Whanganui. By engaging with its diverse services and activities, you're not only enriching your own life but also weaving the fabric of your community. As you step through its doors, remember you're part of something bigger—an ongoing story of growth, collaboration, and shared dreams that shapes the future of your neighborhood. Join in!