We’re collecting memories, stories, and photos of the library to display in an exhibition at Chamber Gallery Rangiora in November and to host a collection on Waimakariri Heritage.

For three decades, Trevor Inch Memorial Library has been a place of learning, connection, discovery, and belonging. This milestone recognises three decades of growth, innovation, and the library’s enduring role as a welcoming civic and cultural heart for Rangiora.

Its name comes from Trevor Milton Inch, the first elected Mayor of the Waimakariri District who worked tirelessly throughout his time as Mayor (1986-1995) to give the community a new modern library.  Trevor Inch passed away prior to the official opening of the library on 21 December 1996 but is remembered for his support of libraries as a place of life-long learning.

A lot has happened since then. The interior of the library looks a little different, digital technology has changed how we operate, more programming and events are on offer, and there are always new books on the shelves. Whether you’re new to the space or you’ve been a member since 1996, we want to hear your experiences and memories of Rangiora’s Trevor Inch Memorial Library.

How to share your story

From 23 April – 14 May, we’ll have a spot in the middle of Rangiora Library for you to share your story. Either pick up the receiver of our old-school blue phone and tell you stories and memories verbally, draw your favourite place or memory in the library, or write your stories and memories on paper with the help of our prompts.

Can’t make it into the library? You can share your stories with us digitally:

• Type your memories/stories and email them to library.heritage@wmk.govt.nz

• Record your story verbally using your phone’s voice record app or Vaka Ō Te Tupuna, and send the recording to library.heritage@wmk.govt.nz

Please note: By submitting your memories and stories you agree for your submission to be displayed in our upcoming exhibition and uploaded to Waimakariri Libraries channels including Waimakariri Heritage.

FAQs

Who can contribute?
Anyone! Whether you’re a long‑time library member, a casual visitor, a former staff member, or someone new to the space, we’d love to hear from you.

Can I share my story if I’m no longer living in Rangiora? 
Yes! Even if you’ve moved away, your memories are valuable and you’re welcome to share them.

I have images/videos of the Trevor Inch Memorial Library. How can I share them? 
If you’re the owner of those images and you’re happy for us to use them, please send them to library.heritage@wmk.govt.nz You can also upload them and any other images of North Canterbury to Waimakariri Heritage. Learn how to here.

Why should I share my story?  
If you’ve been a member or user of this library, you’ve helped shape it, and we’d love you to share your story. To tell the full story of Trevor Inch Memorial, we need to hear from as many people as possible, and from all users, ages, and stages. To make sure your voice is heard, tell us your story.

How will the submission be used?
The main use of submissions will be to feature them in the upcoming exhibition at Chamber Gallery Rangiora and as a collection on Waimakariri Heritage. Submissions may also be used on the Waimakariri Libraries’ Website and social media channels, Waimakariri District Council website and social media channels, and the Waimakariri Heritage Website.

Will my submission be returned?
Original materials may not be returned, so please provide copies or digital versions of photos where possible. If you have questions about this, library staff can help.

Who owns the stories once they are submitted?
By sharing your story with us, you agree for it to potentially be featured in the 30^th anniversary exhibition at Chamber Gallery Rangiora, added to Waimakariri Heritage and used in promotions for the collection and exhibition.