Mervyn Kemp Library in Tawa is the northernmost branch library in the Wellington City Libraries network, serving the large northern suburb of Tawa at 158 Main Road. It’s a well-established community library with regular opening hours, disabled parking at the rear, and the standard Wellington City Libraries collection and services. For residents of Tawa and surrounding areas in the upper Porirua Basin, it’s the closest WCL branch.
Practical Information
| Address | 158 Main Road, Tawa, Wellington |
|---|---|
| Phone | 04 232 1690 |
| Monday – Wednesday | 10am – 5:30pm |
| Thursday | 10am – 8pm |
| Friday | 10am – 5:30pm |
| Saturday | 10am – 4pm |
| Sunday | Closed |
| Cost | Free entry; EFTPOS for printing |
| Parking | Disabled parking at rear of building |
| Cycling | Two bicycle stands at rear |
| Free wifi | Yes |
About Mervyn Kemp Library
Tawa is a large residential suburb running along the main rail corridor about 15 kilometres north of Wellington’s CBD. Served by the Kāpiti Line train from Wellington station, Tawa has its own suburban centre along Main Road, and the library sits within easy walking distance of the train station and the main shopping strip. Saturday hours extend to 4pm — longer than many of the smaller branch libraries — making it practical for weekend visits.
The library is named for Mervyn Kemp, a local figure whose contribution to the Tawa community is commemorated in the naming. As the WCL network’s northernmost branch, it marks the boundary of Wellington City’s library provision — communities further north (such as Porirua) fall within Porirua City’s library system.
Collections and Services
The library holds fiction and non-fiction, children’s books, DVDs, and magazines as part of the Wellington City Libraries shared catalogue. Items not held at Tawa can be requested from any WCL branch. Free wifi and internet computer access are available, along with printing, photocopying, and scanning. The library runs regular programmes and children’s events — current listings are on the WCL website. Two bicycle stands at the rear of the building serve those cycling to the library.
Where to Learn More
Wellington City Libraries — Mervyn Kemp (Tawa) Library: Official page with current hours, programme listings, and catalogue access.
Wellington City Libraries — Opening Hours: Full hours for all WCL branches including public holiday variations.
FAQ
Where is Mervyn Kemp Library?
At 158 Main Road, Tawa, Wellington. Tawa is on the Kāpiti Line rail corridor, about 15 kilometres north of Wellington CBD. The library is within walking distance of Tawa train station.
What are the opening hours?
Monday to Wednesday 10am-5:30pm, Thursday 10am-8pm, Friday 10am-5:30pm, Saturday 10am-4pm. Closed Sunday and public holidays.
Is there parking?
Disabled parking is available at the rear of the building. Bicycle stands are also at the rear for those arriving by bike.
Why is it called the northernmost WCL library?
Wellington City Libraries serves Wellington City Council’s territory. Mervyn Kemp in Tawa sits at the northern boundary of that area — communities further north (such as Porirua) fall within Porirua City’s library system.
Can I get items from other WCL branches delivered here?
Yes. Items from any WCL branch can be requested and collected at Mervyn Kemp Library using your library card or the online catalogue.
What are the Saturday hours?
Saturday 10am-4pm, which is longer than many smaller WCL branches.
Explore more things to do on the Things to Do in Wellington page, or read about Johnsonville Library at Waitohi and Khandallah Library for other northern Wellington branches.