Alert Level 1 Frequently Asked Questions

Are Hastings District Libraries open to the public?

The Hastings District Libraries (Hastings, Flaxmere, Havelock North) facilities are open. There have been some changes to opening hours for the Hastings Library.

• For hours click here

How do I get books out?

Normal browsing and borrowing is available, within physical distancing requirements. However, our Pick and Mix service will remain to help your visit be as efficient as possible. 

• Pick n Mix: You fill out an online form with your book preferences and our expert librarians will make a selection for you based on those preferences, package it up, put it against your library card account and you can collect. Find our Pick & Mix service here.

Can I request holds? 

Yes, holds can be requested as normal. Holds which are available can be picked up as normal.

Do I need a library card to get books on hold? If I don’t have one, how do I get one?

You will need a library card to issue any items from the library. If you do not have one fill out a membership form here.

Library Hours

Saturday hours at all three library sites returned to 10am-4pm from September 2020. Recent stakeholder engagement indicated demand for more than one late night a week so 7pm weekday closures will commenced on Tuesdays and Thursday evenings from October 2020 at Hastings Library.

Sunday opening at the Hastings Library begin from 10 January 2021, 1-4pm.

I need to use the public computers. Can I do that?

Public computers are now available for use and our staff are able to provide some hands-on help with public computers and mobile devices.

I’m medically vulnerable/housebound. Do you have a delivery service?

Our Books at Home service is available for residents who are housebound due to mobility issues or ill health. To discuss eligibility for this service call us on 871 5000 or email your contact details to libraries@hdc.govt.nz and one of our staff will contact you.

Can I return books?

Yes you can now return your loans as normal. Items will be issued for 28 days from now on and any overdue books will incur fees.

Can I still get ebooks?

Our ebooks can always be accessed via the Libraries' website eLibrary or the Hastings District Libraries App. Hastings District Libraries members can borrow from a large collection of eBooks and eAudiobooks in our eLibraries. This is a totally free service, with no hold or overdue charges. To access online content you need to login with your Library card number and PIN. If you are unsure of your PIN, call us on (06) 871 5000 or email us on libraries@hdc.govt.nz with your Library card number and we will set one up for you.

Can I still access databases from home?

Yes, our free databases are accessible from home via the library website. To access online content you need to login with your Library card number and PIN. If you are unsure of your PIN, call us on (06) 871 5000 or email us on libraries@hdc.govt.nz with your Library card ready and we will set one up for you.