Story: West Coast places

Carnegie Library building, Hokitika

Carnegie Library building, Hokitika

The Carnegie Library building was one of more than 2,500 libraries worldwide funded by US steel magnate and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie in the early 20th century. Completed and opened in June 1908, it is one of 18 Carnegie libraries in New Zealand. The entrance steps were a typical feature of the libraries, signifying that learning elevates a person.

By the late 20th century the building was no longer used as a library. It was subsequently restored and strengthened, and formed part of the West Coast Historical Museum.

Using this item

Private collection
Photograph by Simon Nathan

This item has been provided for private study purposes (such as school projects, family and local history research) and any published reproduction (print or electronic) may infringe copyright law. It is the responsibility of the user of any material to obtain clearance from the copyright holder.

All images & media in this story

How to cite this page:

Simon Nathan, 'West Coast places - Hokitika', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/21017/carnegie-library-building-hokitika (accessed 19 March 2024)

Story by Simon Nathan