How to collect your library holds

Everything you need to know about picking up your requested items from the library. 

Paperless pick-up system 

When you visit a library to collect an item you have requested, you will find it on numbered shelves in the holds pick-up area. It will not be shelved alphabetically with your name on a paper slip. 

If you have more than one library item to collect, you may need to find and collect your library items from more than one numbered shelf in the holds pick-up area. 

How to find your library holds 

You will receive an email to let you know your library item is ready to be picked up.

This email will contain: 

• The name of the library item 
• Pick-up library location
  
• The number of the shelf it is on 
• The date your item needs to be collected by. 
  

These details are also available in your account section of the Auckland Libraries app. Our free app can be downloaded on Apple and Android devices from the Apple App Store or Google Play store. 

Bring your library card and remember to check out your items at the self-check machine or at the desk.

Can't find your holds pick-up notification email? 

You may need to check your spam folder or search your inbox for an email from aucklandlibraries@donotreply.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz.

Why has the holds pick-up system gone paperless? 

• We’ve introduced an innovative technology that automates some of the manual tasks involved in moving and managing our collections around our libraries. 
  
  
• This new software also enables us to move to an anonymised and paperless holds pick-up system. 
  We value your privacy, and moving to an anonymised system will mean your name will no longer be visible on a paper slip in a public space in the library. 
  
  
• By removing the paper slips, we're playing our part to reduce the amount of paper waste and our environmental impact. 

We’re here to help 

If you’re unsure about where to find your items on the shelves or don't have access to a personal device, our friendly librarians are happy to help you. Please visit the library service desk for assistance.