Specialist Library and Information Studies degree give graduates industry relevant skills.

The first group of learners to undertake the Open Polytechnic’s Bachelor of Library and Information Studies are set to graduate in 2022 and are looking forward to using the knowledge, skills and abilities, they have gained during their degree studies to take their careers to the next level.
First offered in late 2017, the Bachelor of Library and Information Studies (BLIS) is delivered fully online and prepares learners for a career in library, archives, information, or records management.

Graduates of the programme learn how to provide culturally responsive library and information services. They learn to:
  • analyse individual, organisational and community needs to design and deliver appropriate library and information services
  • facilitate the creation, organisation and dissemination of new knowledge
  • search for, critically evaluate and use information in diverse formats and locations
  • develop leadership and management strategies related to the information industry.

Library Life is pleased to introduce you to the first graduates of this programme: Amanda Dickson, Jack Helms, and Donna Le Marquand.
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Amanda Dickson at her past workplace, Stokes Valley Koraunui Community Hub.

​AMANDA DICKSON

An avid reader from a young age, Amanda Dickson worked as a classically trained cartoon animator before moving into the library and information studies field. Now, having graduated with the BLIS, she has landed the position of sole librarian at Hutt International Boys’ School. “I am loving the role and would not have received it without my qualification,” says Amanda. “I’ve had the opportunity to remake the library, introducing contemporary collections and events such as Out on the Shelves, a nationwide library initiative to make books about rainbow youth or with LGBTQIA+ themes more visible. I am also liaising with my local public library to create quality experiences for my students. This is where I see myself for the foreseeable future.”

She says she learned a lot about self-discipline through her studies and to not shy away from asking questions. She also extended her te ao Māori knowledge, which is also relevant to her work in public libraries.
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Of her study experience, Amanda says the Open Polytechnic academic staff were always there to guide her. “I am very grateful for the tutors who encouraged me to think bigger and take on extra projects.”

JACK HELMS

Fellow graduate Jack Helms is looking forward to starting work in the industry, with a goal of working in his local library. He says he has always been passionate about reading, having taught himself to read from a very young age. He also has his own book reviewing website where he reviews children and young adult books with the aim of encouraging reluctant male readers. 

Jack says the most valuable study skill he learned during his degree was ensuring he thought carefully about tutors’ comments when completing assignments. Time management was also an important skill, with Jack managing his study workload by ensuring he set time aside each day to complete course work.

On the future of the Galleries, Libraries, Archives and Museums (GLAM) sector, he says he hopes children will still read books rather than solely reading through screens. “Even though we have modern conveniences such as easily accessible eBooks, the tradtional printed word is still present and as popular as ever in our libraries. I grew up reading from a page instead of a screen, and I want the children of the future to be able to share that experience too,” says Jack.
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One resource he found valuable when studying is the Crash Course series published by Libraries Unlimited. The book series covers everything from library services for different age groups to using new technology such as RFID and eBooks in libraries.
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Jack Helms received both the Level 5 and 6 Diplomas in Library and Information Studies at the Wellington graduation ceremony in 2019.
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Donna at work in the school library at the Blockhouse Bay Intermediate School in Auckland.

​DONNA LE MARQUAND

School library manager Donna Le Marquand has also graduated with the BLIS and is looking forward to attending her graduation ceremony in 2022. Initially starting her study journey with Open Polytechnic by completing the Level 5 and 6 diplomas in Library and Information Studies, her passion for study was ignited, leading her to carry on and undertake the degree programme.

“It was a 13-year journey, but I am delighted and proud to have completed this degree at the age of 51, the same year my youngest child graduated.”

Already working in the sector ? while she completed her studies, Donna has held diverse roles including assistant librarian for a medical publishing company, then 10 years working in special libraries, followed by a stint with the National Library of New Zealand. She has also worked as a school librarian in a primary school, a large high school and (currently) an intermediate school.
Donna says she has enjoyed her degree studies. “The courses are relevant and interesting. They have taken me on a professional and personal journey. Te Ao Māori in the Information Environment course included a noho marae stay. I really enjoyed this experience and the opportunity to meet other learners face-to-face.”

Since graduating, Donna has been working as a library manager in a large intermediate school in Auckland. Her role includes the purchasing and processing of all new material, supporting student learning by helping them find information and teaching them research skills. She also supports reading engagement which involves book talks, library displays, competitions, reading challenges, running a book club, and organising an annual Book Week. 

​If you would like to find out more about the Library and Information Studies courses the Open Polytechnic offers, checkout: https://bit.ly/3zSgy2z​
Did you know recent graduates automatically qualify to apply for RLIANZA? 
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Victoria University of Wellington Master of Library and Information Studies and Open Polytechnic qualifications are recognised by the LIANZA Professional Registration Board as meeting the LIANZA Professional Registration Bodies of Knowledge (BoKs). Graduates who are LIANZA members just need to pay the initial application fee of $57.50 and submit an application form with a copy of their qualification to become professionally registered. You then start collecting professional evidence over the next three years in order to revalidate. RLIANZA shows your peers and employers that you have demonstrated a commitment to professional standards, and to developing and enhancing competence.
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