*Please note this is subject to Council approval at the Ordinary Council Meeting on Wednesday 14 May, 2025.
Carterton and South Wairarapa District Councils will seek resolutions from their respective elected representatives that from 1 July 2025, their library services will be independently managed. This will bring an end to the Wairarapa Library Service (WLS) model that has operated since 2001.
The decision follows a series of reviews and operational assessments which concluded that the shared WLS arrangement, which was once an innovative step forward, is outdated in today’s environment.
Both Councils are committed to delivering library services that reflect and respond to the communities they serve. While the WLS chapter closes, the future of libraries in the Wairarapa remains bright, connected, and locally focused.
“In the early 2000s, a shared model made sense,” said Glenda Seville, Community Services and Facilities Manager at Carterton District Council.
“But in a world of digital renewals, integrated online catalogues, and evolving community expectations, we need a more responsive, modern structure. Unknitting the shared arrangement now gives each council the clarity and agility to move forward.”
The WLS model was established to combine library resources across the two districts. However, it has struggled in recent years to meet changing needs due to incompatible IT systems, differing budgets and service expectations, and limited ability to evolve under a shared governance model.
While a 2021 review attempted to unify and modernise the shared service, the challenges persisted. A further review by SWDC in 2023 reaffirmed the need for structural change.
“Initiatives like the SMART library network have made regional digital access easier, and in some ways already supersede what WLS was created to achieve,” said Stefan Corbett, Group Manager Infrastructure and Community Operations at South Wairarapa District Council.
“Each district can now make decisions that reflect local demand while still being part of a wider library ecosystem.
“We acknowledge that the libraries hold a special place in our communities, and we want to reassure them that this decision will not impact on how each council will deliver on service.”
Although the formal shared service is ending, the councils remain committed to collaborating in future — particularly in areas like regional events, resource sharing, and digital services that benefit both communities.
Customers can expect further information on the changes ahead of the relaunch on 1 July.
What this means for library users
- All four libraries remain open: Carterton, Featherston, Greytown, and Martinborough
- No changes to opening hours
- Library cards will continue to work in each district
- Digital services continue, with minor updates phased in over time
- Each council is developing a detailed transition plan to ensure there is no disruption to users, and signage, websites, and communications.
ENDS
Media Contact: comms@cdc.govt.nz or media@swdc.govt.nz