Free Public Library, Wellesley Street, Reading Room
1907-1913 (George Crombie, New Zealand Graphic) - 2025
Click on image to toggle transition between two photographs
Historical image: Free Library, Wellesley Street, circa 1900-1916, by George Crombie. Purchased 1991. Te Papa (O.005047)
Image comparison slider version
The historical image above is adapted from an original stereograph card published by the New Zealand Graphic (hence the halftone screen) sometime between 1907 and 1913.
The image pair above can be viewed with a stereoscope, or failing that, below is an animation rapidly alternating between the two frames, which gives an impression of its stereoscopic effect.
The reading room of the Auckland Free Public Library
1901 (Auckland Weekly News) - 2025
Below: In 1901, the Auckland Weekly News published this photograph of the library's Reading Room, (taken from the other end of the room). However, a modern wall prevented reacquiring the 1901 camera position, so rather than being presented overlaid the modern image (2025) is shown separately below the 1901 picture.
1901 image: Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections AWNS-19010822-10-01
For a then-and-now treatment of a Burton Brothers image of the Reading Room made around the time of its opening in 1887, click here.
