​May saw the Aoraki region host our Inclusivity: LIANZA Aoraki Weekend School. This was the first time we had hosted a weekend school across two locations, Christchurch and Nelson, and we were very excited to see this event come to fruition. We facilitated speakers in both locations (19 speakers in total), with live streaming between the two. The idea behind this was to encourage more inclusivity within our region. We wanted to make it as easy as possible for our members to attend, to learn from the wonderful speakers, and connect with GLAM colleagues from around the region. It was extremely exciting to see colleagues from around New Zealand joining us in both locations! 

​A huge thank you to Gail Cook and Rosamund Feeney for recapping the weekend!

One of the main goals that LIANZA is constantly striving towards, is the sharing of information sector-to-sector throughout New Zealand. LIANZA's strategic vision is 'People and communities connected and empowered by information'. The entire LIANZA community from council, committees, staff and personal and institutional members are all here for one purpose, to ensure Kiwis have the best information readily available to them whenever and wherever they may need it.​

If you are interested in helping the programme out and have library experience, but are not sure about being a coach, you will receive training on how to be an effective coach. The coaching can be run in person, video conference or phone. Here are three profiles of coaches that have joined the programme who might inspire you to find out more about being a coach yourself – visit seek.co.nz
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Taitu Lamessa
 
Taitu is the library manager at Eastbourne Library in Lower Hutt. She started out as a librarian at Kisama Africa University College and after a number of years of experience became the head librarian at the Royal University College in Ethiopia. Now part of Hutt City Libraries, Taitu leads the front-line customer service staff and the library’s layout to ensure a high standard is being delivered to their customers. Taitu has previously developed many programmes in the local community; she supports her colleagues in on-going programme design and delivery to ensure there is something of relevance for the community throughout Hutt City, which will provide insight for NZLPP participants working on their initiatives.
 
Taitu says, "It is when we support each other that we grow into our best self throughout our career. The NZLPP provides us with a nest to come together to support, nurture and uplift each other to our best selves. Professionally supporting each other by being part of a programme like this, equips us with great tool to go out and serve the community.  I am excited to be part of this journey, to see the coachees as well as the coaches grow together and leaving the nest feeling a bit taller."

Dyane Hosler
 
Dyane is the Puke Ariki Libraries Manager, based in New Plymouth. She has been involved in a number of significant library projects over the past 10 years including  post the Canterbury earthquakes (when based in Christchurch) and, more recently, the Puke Ariki strategic developments. Through these projects and others, Dyane has been a leader, driving for continuous improvement, with a keen focus on future growth of staff and always bringing the team on the journey.

Dyane says, "We need to develop our staff, so they are resilient to changing community needs and council requirements. Our staff and teams are our greatest taonga."

Hilary Mercer
 
Hilary is a digital librarian at Ko Taku Reo Deaf Education New Zealand and has previously worked in human resources, information security and libraries. She is passionate about libraries, and the communities they serve. Cognisant of contemporary information and library issues, Hilary is committed to life-long learning in the areas of technology and library services in order to remain current in the profession. Hilary’s previous roles have provided a broad range of transferable skills and knowledge including leading major projects such as creating a specialised digital library and eResources, an annual reading challenge, staff training, STEAM, kidsfest and many more.

Hilary says, "The NZLPP is a fantastic initiative that I am excited to be involved with.  I am looking forward to sharing my skills and expertise to coach and support library staff members to achieve their goals."