About Us

The New Zealand Library Association Inc. (trading as LIANZA)  is the professional organisation for the New Zealand library and information services sector.

LIANZA serves and promotes the interests of New Zealand library and information industry and professionals by providing continuing professional development, professionals awards and recognition, publications and resources, advocacy and collegial support.  LIANZA plays a key coordination role in the industry and through its regional and special interest group infrastructure provides organisational structure for members seeking mutual support. LIANZA is a member of IFLA - The International Federation of Library Associations.

Membership of LIANZA is open to individuals and organisations alike: the only membership requirement is an interest in the sector. At 1 July 2006 LIANZA had 1,244 personal members and 459 institutional members for a total membership of 1,702.

LIANZA is an incorporated society founded in 1910. It is governed by an elected National Council, chaired by the LIANZA President and administered through its National Office, who act in accordance with the association’s Rules and Code of Practice. The LIANZA Community comprises the national organisation, Regional Committees, and Special Interest Groups representing industry sectors, activities and sub-regions. The National Library and LIANZA together provide the libraries Interloan Services. LIANZA Members are free to join as many groups and associations within the community as they wish.

LIANZA provides a framework and programmes for the library and information professional to continue their professional development and to receive awards and recognition for professional attainment. 

LIANZA publishes a monthly online magazine Library Life and twice annually its research publication The New Zealand Library & Information Management Journal.  A range of publications and resources are produced by LIANZA to enhance member’s personal improvement, development, interaction and communication.  In addition LIANZA hosts its annual Conference & Trade Exhibition.

The LIANZA website has its own online library where various speeches, submissions and papers are archived. Key items include the National Information Strategy, the Remuneration Survey of the Library and Information Profession and Public Standards for New Zealand Libraries.

LIANZA's goal is to promote libraries and information, to foster the profession and to provide professional leadership.

See our Profile for more information about LIANZA, its partnerships and structure.