Lake Hāwea Station Launches Community ‘Lilliput’ Library
On the 15th April, a giant Lilliput Library will launch on Hawea Back Road, Lake Hawea. Inspired by her three years living in Dunedin where “gorgeous decorated Lilliput Libraries are everywhere” Lake Hawea Station owner Justine Ross an ex teacher and Speech Therapist decided there was no reason why rural communities couldn’t have one too. There is a case that they need them more.
Justine will fill the library with a range of books for adults and children ready for launch day. The hope is that this becomes a circular community initiative and is embraced taking on a life of its own with the community will borrowing, returning and replacing books.
“ I had a wee dream that it would become a destination families may bike to the library from Hawea or even from WANAKA along the amazing track ... swap a book and bike home. Exercise and Reading two of the most important things in my book” says Justine.
The library itself was hand made by John Ross (79) Justine’s father-in-law. Grace and Justine say if stocks run low they have a collection of books to keep it supplied including some best sellers and many children's books enjoyed by Justine’s sons, but their hope is that the community will contribute, be generous and engaged with keeping this rather large (1m x 1m) Lilliput Library stocked.
