Ashburton’s new library opened this week with the sound of running feet, as children discovered tables piled with Lego and then sprawled in beanbags with books or tried the outdoor playground and slide.

Adults too came with bags bulging with books due back, as the old library closed three weeks ago – they discovered a new return book area, comfy new seats to begin their new reading material, and much more.

The honour of borrowing the first book from the new library in Te Whare Whakatere went to Jenifer Wiggins, whose book was issued by Mayor Neil Brown, who also presented Jenifer with a special certificate as the first borrower.

Mayor Brown said the long wait for a new library had been worth it and the rest of the building would be open for Council business next Monday 29 January.

“How good it was to see families, young people, older people and our own library staff with big smiles on their faces as they moved about the library space.

“We’ve done something really special here. As well as checking out books, you can also make stickers, use a sewing machine, build a Lego castle, record your own podcast or song, or do your homework on one of the computers in the Learning Lab.

“It’s a place we hope people will find comfortable, meet their friends, read or play, or just be here in a safe and friendly space using the free wi-fi.”

Library Manager Jill Watson said opening day was busy and almost 2,000 books were issued. “It was great to finally show the community what we have been working towards these past few years.

“I hope people take advantage of our daily tours, on the hour, to learn more about the new features we have and why they are important for our community.

"We also gave out 42 Kānuka plants to new library members, to be planted in honour of the occasion."

The library’s community rooms can be booked online from 1 February.

The library’s new hours are: Monday 8.30am-6pm, Tuesday-Thursday 8.30am-8pm, Friday 8.30am-6pm, Saturday and Sunday 10am-4pm.

You can find more about the new library online at ashburtondc.govt.nz