Personal development reading guide
Great reads to help you in the important work of being your best self.
Are you trying to lead a more healthy, sustainable life, or attempting new challenges and hobbies?
Perhaps you are trying to de-stress, attempting to get in touch with your spiritual side, or working on your professional or personal relationships.
Whatever the reason for your quest, these life coaches will guide you to your best self in an entertaining and accessible way.
Personal development reading lists
Personal development reading lists
Non-fiction - Trauma healing
Trauma can take many forms in today's taxing world. Psychiatrists, counsellors and trauma survivors share their experiences and expertise.
Non-fiction - Reconnect with Nature
Be it a meditative visit to the local park or a walk across the country the importance of connecting with nature cannot be undervalued.
Non-fiction - Out: Families and Sexuality
These titles offer empathetic advice and poignant biography with a focus on LGBTQIA youth and their families.
Non-fiction - Gender Rainbow Families
Find out how LGBTQI families overcome prejudice and forge their own identity.
Non-fiction - Mindfulness
These titles give an accessible introduction to the techniques and spiritual underpinnings of mindfulness.
Biography – Sustainability and Self-reliant living
True stories of those determined to live a sustainable life. Learn how to be less wasteful and more self sufficient.
Non-fiction - Sustainable Living
Looking for ways to help save the planet? Learn how to be more self-sufficient, less wasteful and a true eco warrior.
Non-fiction - Going for Gold
Books packed with stories of sporting legends and their insights into some of the most hard won victories of all time.
Non-fiction - Hobbies and upskilling
Looking to pick up a new hobby or skill? Delve into some culinary adventures, take up a new craft, or discover your artistic talents.
Non-fiction - Endurance
What makes people run, get on a bike or dive into the deep blue and put their bodies through days, weeks and months of agony?
Non-fiction - Healthy Living
Diverting titles on healthy living tackling topics like exercise and clean eating with anecdotes, tips, tricks, and personal stories.
Non-fiction - Self-help
There's no such thing as a perfect life - we all struggle with its challenges. Find fresh perspectives, guidance, and practical advice.
Non-fiction - Popular Philosophy
Philosophical theories from the ancients to modern day explained in an entertaining and, yes, even humorous, way.
The Art of Leadership
Recent books, online library resources and a collection of websites to inspire leadership, change and team management.
Creative Series Workshop: Brushes
May 29th | 4:00pm - 5:30pm
Join Casey from Repotted Boutique and create brushes using tī kōuka leaves and foraged or recycled materials.
Craft Snippets: Yarn magazine editor, Dr Rie Natalenko
Sally reports back from the Craft snippets event at Upper Riccarton Library with guest speaker, Dr Rie Natalenko.
Craft Snippets - Needle felting with Diana Renwick
May 29th | 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Craft Snippets is a way to learn about artisan crafts from enthusiasts and experts who love to share.
Find great reads:
Authors to try:
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#LibraryFromHome: Be kind to yourself
It's easy to feel overwhelmed with the constant distractions and noise of life. Take time out to enjoy an inspiring eMagazine.
In the catalogue
Find titles in the catalogue
Catalogue searches for Exercise, food habits, mind and body, nutrition and physical fitness
Catalogue searches for Creativity, hobbies, learning and sports
Find non-fiction on your favourite topic
Whatever kind of non-fiction you're into, find lists, new authors to try, and staff picks.