“Psst. Wanna know a secret?” The Fine Arts Library holds more than just books. It holds the heart of Auckland’s artistic soul.
Here at the Fine Arts Library, we stand before a place that’s more than just a repository of books. This library is the epicenter of creativity for the Elam School of Fine Arts. This school has birthed artistic giants like Michael Parekowhai and Rita Angus.
Now, let’s step inside. Imagine cozy cubbies, perfect for losing yourself in study. Picture books overflowing on shelves covering every artistic discipline imaginable. Did you know it houses the largest collection of fine art books and texts in the Southern Hemisphere? That’s right. The Southern Hemisphere.
But there’s more than meets the eye. Hidden away are invaluable special collections. They contain years of ephemera, one-off volumes, and taonga. Specialist librarians care for these collections. They offer invaluable expertise to students. They know where everything is.
This Fine Arts Library isn’t just for students. It’s open to the public. Yes, you can pop in and explore. Who knows what inspiration you might find here? The Fine Arts Library faced a huge challenge when plans arose to shut it down. The thought was to move its collection to the main library or offsite storage. Some feared books would be shredded.
Students voiced concerns about accessing resources. They worried about the loss of the ability to browse the shelves. Some even said they would not recommend the school if the library was removed. The library is a selling point for studying at Elam. Post-graduate study requires access to its resources.
The Fine Arts Library closure plan sparked debate. Many saw it as a disregard for the arts. They felt that the arts are devalued as a nation. Why should artists have to justify their spaces? Why should they have to prove that they are worthy of respect?
Despite the challenges, the Fine Arts Library stands as a testament to the importance of art. It’s a place where students and the public can access knowledge. This knowledge enhances us as a society. The Fine Arts Library is more than just a library. It’s a vital space. It nurtures creativity and enriches Auckland’s artistic community. It is a treasure trove of art history. It is a vibrant hub for artistic exploration. Long may it thrive.