When long time Bay of Plenty resident Bernard Sladden died in 1961, his collection of rare books became the property of the Tauranga Historical Society. Because of the value of the books they passed into the care of Tauranga City library in 1964.
Sladden’s special interests, which are reflected in his collection, were Cook’s exploration of the Pacific, Māori history and natural history. The Sladden library includes early editions of Cook’s voyages, the beautifully illustrated Buller’s Birds and a comprehensive collection of publications by Elsdon Best.
Only particularly rare or valuable books are added to this special collection.
View the Sladden collection
View his photographic collection and papers in Pae Korokī.