William Leys had a vision to build a library to encourage recreational reading and learning. He died in 1899 and left a bequest of 5,723 pounds toward the building of the Leys Institute. From a painting by Ellen von Meyern.

Thomson W. Leys approached the Corporation of Auckland in 1904 and offered to meet half the cost of the building and all the furnishings if the City would provide the land. Portrait of Thomson Wilson Leys by Charles F. Goldie 1904 Auckland City Art Gallery.

W. Cecil Leys, Thomson’s son, later Sir Cecil Leys patron of the arts and member of the committee of management for the Leys Institute.

In 1958, the Hillary Leys Memorial Wing opened providing a children’s library. Lady Leys photographed by Clifton Firth.