The programme began with a warm welcome from the team at Matamata-Piako, who hosted a beautiful mihi whakatau and a lovely morning tea. Presentations kicked off with a fascinating glimpse into the world of the Waikato Hospital Library presented by Nicole Frew. Nicole talked about Hospital libraries’ unique role and the planned merging of library services across the health sector to create better collaborative outcomes for staff and patients.
Katherine Bosworth from South Taranaki Libraries presented on their journey to a successful Summer Reading Programme and the importance of bringing the focus back to reading and staff engagement with children. Jo Cocker from the LIANZA Council then gave a comprehensive and compelling presentation on the role of libraries in supporting digital equity.
Other highlights included Izzy Zhang from Highland Park Library presenting on using WeChat to help engage with their local Chinese population, Michelle Bradbury, Jody Smart, and Leslie Goodliffe from Tauranga Library Archives presenting on the challenges of relocating their collection to a temporary space, and Lisa Foster from Kaipara libraries talking about their Tutu collection of STEM and creative-based items. These talks were followed by a fantastic lunch and the opportunity to explore the Matamata library.
The afternoon was rounded off by Katarina Allely and Anne Dickson talking about the impact that the National Libraries Pūtoi Rito Communities of Readers had in the Kaipara libraries district and how it was used to create relationships with local organisations and to get free books into the homes of the local community. Joanna Thomas finished the day with a preview of the plans for the amazing new Tauranga public library building within the new civic precinct Te Manawataki o Te Papa.
Sunday began with a talk from Pete Elderkin, the LIANZA Executive Director. Then, Melanie Brebner, the District Library Manager for Matamata Piako libraries, presented a concise history of censorship in New Zealand and the current issues facing public libraries. Melanie discussed the LIANZA Freedom to Read Toolkit and its scope in supporting libraries with these challenges. This was followed by a networking event and art challenge hosted by Lisa Hayward that rounded off another engaging and inspirational day.
Thanks to Fiona Rongo and the team at Matamata-Piako for hosting this fabulous weekend of learning and professional development.
