Research Collections
The Library maintains several heritage collections. These collections are housed in the Research Room and are accessible for library use only. The temperature-controlled room provides a secure environment for the Heritage Collections, which require special care.
While the room is available for quiet study, visitors are required to leave their bags in the secure lockers at the Information Desk. Laptops may be used on the wireless network.
Nelson Heritage Collection
This collection encompasses a comprehensive array of publications related to Nelson and the Nelson region. It includes diverse materials such as books, magazines, community newspapers, catalogs, electoral rolls, directories, and local council publications. Items are added based on their research or heritage significance for Nelson.
For collection purposes, the geographical coverage aligns with the original boundaries of the Nelson Province (located at the top of the South Island).
Click here for a full list of items held.
The New Zealand Heritage Collection
The central focus of this collection lies in the Nelson Institute collection, which embodies colonial perspectives on New Zealand. Occasionally, items of notable research or heritage significance are incorporated into this core collection.
Click here for a full list of items held.
Māori Heritage Collection
This collection primarily consists of historic books related to Māori from the Nelson Institute. Items are added to the collection based on their significant heritage or research value, their relevance to Tangata Whenua or Top of the South Island iwi, their vulnerability or fragility, or their status as key resources for Māori.
Click here for a full list of items held.
Government Documents
The Library archives New Zealand Government Papers from 1858, along with Ordinances and Statutes dating back to 1841. Additionally, it houses New Zealand Geological Survey Bulletins and Year Books.
Newspapers
The Library archives local community newspapers and the Nelson Mail in the Research Room. The Nelson Mail is held in print until we receive a microfilm version.
The Library holds the following local papers:
Microfilm
- Nelson Examiner 1842-1874
- The Nelson Mail 1866 to the present (microfilming in progress)
- The Colonist 1857-1920
- The Motueka Star 1931 - 1939 (incomplete)
The Library does not index these papers. An index is available at the Nelson Provincial Museum research facility for the Nelson Mail.
- The Guardian (Tasman) 1994 (remainder held Nelson Provincial Museum)
- The Community Leader 1991 - 1993
- The Haven Nos 1 - 65 (1992-3)
- Live Nelson/ Our Nelson 1999 - present
- Tribune 1983-1985
