About our library.
The Light Library is a living studio for co-creating stories, workshops and rituals that connect us—through nature, storytelling and creative community-making.
Founded by Emma Hinton, with collaborators across Aotearoa, we create picture books and public art grounded in place care, and resilience. A creative space where storytelling, art and nature unite to spark connection and imagination. Through books, gatherings, and collaborative art-making, it offers transformative experiences for both children and adults.
More than just a place, The Light Library fosters creativity and care, inviting all to craft stories that shape a more connected world.
“I wanted to be a librarian as a child and make books. My adult life led me to filmmaking, which relies on collaboration and connecting with a story. The enriching experience of being part of the process and how every contribution made the film, is one I want to share through publishing books and hosting events.”
Emma Hinton, creator of The Light Library.
The children’s book Finding Grace, Kimihia a Grace is our first project. Written by Emma, collaborating with painter Nicky Harley and translator Lois McIver. A bilingual book in English and Te Reo Māori. Children contributed to painting the pages for illustrates to emerge and we credit each in the book. Published in 2023, followed by an art exhibition and kids' art/nature workshops.
The next in series Seeking Will, Rapua a Will to be released 2026, followed with more workshops to create the final book, Being Mana, Te Mana Ora (working title).
All are invited. Join The Light Library and be part of this story.
Librarian: Facilitator & Writer
Emma is a mother, celebrant, facilitator and storyteller. After helping to make films in NZ and beyond for two decades, she brings this experience and passion for collaborative art into her writing and ceremony.
The Light Library is her dream, creating collaborative experiences for children and adults to be made into books and other works of art.