The building above is located on the site of Inglewood's first library, known as the "Inglewood Institute", which opened in 1875. The name 'public library' came into use in the 1890s and it was around this time that the idea to erect a new building was discussed. Eventually the whole block from Richmond Street to the railway line was acquired and became a 'library reserve'. The rental income from the other businesses was used to support and grow the library collection.
The architects of the Municipal Library & Offices were the prominent New Plymouth-based firm of Messenger, Griffiths and Taylor. The contractor was Frank Cooper. The cost of the building was said to be between £4,000 and £5,000, considerably more than anticipated. However, owing to the council's "excellent financial position" (TDN 3 September 1924 p.6), no special rates levy would need to be imposed.
The Mayor J.R.S. Sutherland presided over a dinner and 'smoke concert' to celebrate the opening of the building and the connecting of the town to the NP hydro-electric supply in September 1924.
The numerous toasts proposed included New Plymouth Borough, Inglewood Borough, Inglewood County, the hydro-electric committee, banking & commerce, the press, visitors, staff, ladies, the architects and the contractor. A ‘splendid programme’ of songs and recitations was made throughout the evening.
Inglewood's Progress (TDN 3 September 1924)
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