Benighted! How the University library survived the Auckland power crisis

Alison Grant
a.grant@auckland.ac.nz

When the power failed in central Auckland in February 1998 the University of Auckland had to close 14 of its 15 libraries for over a week. The crisis was completely unexpected and both during and after the closure staff were obliged to find new ways to provide service to users. The fact that the library and the university survived this period without serious consequence can be attributed to a quick and effective response from university senior management, excellent communication and planning from skilled and co-operative staff within the university, and goodwill from our clients and the local community.