The National Children's Collection was started in 1942 and is the Library’s largest collection of books written for children and young people.
Most of the books in the collection were published in Britain, United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific. The majority of the books are written in English, but we also have many books in Māori and Pasifika languages.
Since 1993 we have added selectively to this collection. We have focused on:
- New Zealand and Pacific children's books
- books that have won awards
- highly recommended or star reviewed books
- books that have caused controversy
- titles written by notable, important or controversial authors and illustrators.
Access items in this collection
Search for descriptions of items in the collection using the National Library Catalogue. To request items you need to be registered as a user.
Items can be used in the reading room on the ground floor. You can also make an appointment to visit the collection on the lower ground floor of the Library.
More about registering and requesting
Get copies from items in this collection
Copies can be made from items in this collection if copying doesn’t breach copyright. Photocopiers, and printers for microfiche and microfilm readers are available for use in the Library.
More about copyright and usage
Borrow items in this collection
You can borrow items from this collection by interloan through your local library. We lend to New Zealand and overseas libraries.
Get help
We can answer your enquiries in person, by letter, phone or email.
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