Warm congratulations to LIANZA 2021 Professional Recognition Award recipients. Our association has been recognising professional excellence and honouring the contributions made to the library and information profession in New Zealand for 71 years.
LIANZA is approaching a significant milestone. There have now been 99 LIANZA Fellowships awarded since 1964. Perhaps our association can surpass 100 in 2022?
LIANZA Professional Recognition Awards are managed by the LIANZA Credentials Committee and include: Associateships, Awards of Professional Excellence, Letters of Recognition, Joint Letter of Recognition for Bicultural Development and Fellowships.
We thank the LIANZA Credentials Committee for their thoughtful and through consideration of the 2021 nominations and applications. The committee includes Lee Rowe (ALIANZA), Bernie Hawke (FLIANZA), Joan Simpson (ALIANZA), Alison Fields (FLIANZA), Dyane Hosler (ALIANZA), Justine Lester (ALIANZA) and was chaired by Laurinda Thomas (ALIANZA).
Laurinda Thomas says, ““It’s always wonderful to be able to review the nominations and read about the fabulous work people in our profession are doing. It’s really quite an inspiring process to be a part of.”
LIANZA is approaching a significant milestone. There have now been 99 LIANZA Fellowships awarded since 1964. Perhaps our association can surpass 100 in 2022?
LIANZA Professional Recognition Awards are managed by the LIANZA Credentials Committee and include: Associateships, Awards of Professional Excellence, Letters of Recognition, Joint Letter of Recognition for Bicultural Development and Fellowships.
We thank the LIANZA Credentials Committee for their thoughtful and through consideration of the 2021 nominations and applications. The committee includes Lee Rowe (ALIANZA), Bernie Hawke (FLIANZA), Joan Simpson (ALIANZA), Alison Fields (FLIANZA), Dyane Hosler (ALIANZA), Justine Lester (ALIANZA) and was chaired by Laurinda Thomas (ALIANZA).
Laurinda Thomas says, ““It’s always wonderful to be able to review the nominations and read about the fabulous work people in our profession are doing. It’s really quite an inspiring process to be a part of.”
LIANZA Fellowships
A fellowship is the highest level of professional attainment awarded by LIANZA. It is awarded to a personal member of the association who has demonstrated outstanding leadership, teaching or research qualities, contribution to LIANZA, held library or information management positions for at least 10 years and as a result, has made a significant contribution to the advancement of librarianship and/or information management. Nominations for fellowships must be made by two LIANZA fellows or associates, who provide statements in support and testimonials from at least two members of the library and information profession. Nominees do not need to hold LIANZA Professional Registration or be LIANZA associates prior to being nominated for a LIANZA Fellowship.
Congratulations to Nicki Moen, Sue Fargher, Marion Read, Paula Eskett, Judy McFall McCaffery, and Megan Clark who are awarded LIANZA Fellowships.
A fellowship is the highest level of professional attainment awarded by LIANZA. It is awarded to a personal member of the association who has demonstrated outstanding leadership, teaching or research qualities, contribution to LIANZA, held library or information management positions for at least 10 years and as a result, has made a significant contribution to the advancement of librarianship and/or information management. Nominations for fellowships must be made by two LIANZA fellows or associates, who provide statements in support and testimonials from at least two members of the library and information profession. Nominees do not need to hold LIANZA Professional Registration or be LIANZA associates prior to being nominated for a LIANZA Fellowship.
Congratulations to Nicki Moen, Sue Fargher, Marion Read, Paula Eskett, Judy McFall McCaffery, and Megan Clark who are awarded LIANZA Fellowships.
Nicki Moen
Nicki has been a library manager and consultant for over 35 years. Throughout, Nicki has demonstrated outstanding leadership and future thinking to help transform New Zealand public libraries. Her strength is the design of library services and facilities attuned to community needs. At Christchurch City Council, Nicki successfully managed a city-wide network of community libraries and several new building projects including Shirley and Fendalton Libraries.
Always the innovator, Nicki established a highly sought-after library planning consultancy in 2005. Her astute perception and direct approach to problem solving helped many libraries achieve more, including the development of several modern, fit for purpose library buildings. Her ability to push the boundaries of what a library can be is evident in her work for Te Takeretanga o Kura-hau-pō, Horowhenua’s Cultural and Community Centre, and Te Awahou Nieuwe Stroom in Foxton.
Hearing the call of implementing some of her own ideas herself, Nicki is currently the Manager of Arts, Culture and Lifelong Learning at Selwyn District Council. Along with new service developments, her next big contribution will arrive in the form of Te Ara Ātea, a new cultural heritage facility for Rolleston.
Nicki has been described as a visionary with contagious passion. She actively nurtures staff using a coaching model of development. Able to engage and motivate, Nicki has influenced library staff, Council politicians and executives to support libraries in growing strong and caring communities. Nicki is a supportive leader, strong networker, and encourages staff to be involved professionally.
Nicki is dedicated to LIANZA and has contributed widely to roles including council, regional committee member, project lead and advocate. She is a valued member of the Kōtui Board. She shares her knowledge widely in various forums.
Nicki’s strengths in developing transformational library services, her support and mentoring of staff and the sheer breadth and depth of her contribution, mean she is highly deserving of the award of fellowship.
What was your first response when you read the letter advising you had been awarded the highest level of professional recognition by LIANZA? What does this award mean to you?
My story is a little strange … the other night I was having trouble sleeping so I decided to spend a bit of time online. I don’t usually look at my work emails but I did that night. I remember it was 3.30am and I read the email from you, Ana, and the letter from Erica and was shocked to read that I had been awarded a Fellowship. It felt strange, yet very, very special. It was as if I was meant to open my emails in the middle of the night, just that once. I loved having the quiet of night to be able to reflect on this very special news. It is interesting how your career then races in front of your mind and I had a lovely hour just thinking about the people I’ve worked with, the libraries I’ve been in, here in New Zealand and also throughout the world. I also thought about the importance of our professional organisation and how I have always valued my membership. I thought about my mentors, my peers, and the many friends I’ve made as I have worked in our profession. You can image what a delectably rich hour it was as my mind journeyed through so many memories! Thank you
Nicki has been a library manager and consultant for over 35 years. Throughout, Nicki has demonstrated outstanding leadership and future thinking to help transform New Zealand public libraries. Her strength is the design of library services and facilities attuned to community needs. At Christchurch City Council, Nicki successfully managed a city-wide network of community libraries and several new building projects including Shirley and Fendalton Libraries.
Always the innovator, Nicki established a highly sought-after library planning consultancy in 2005. Her astute perception and direct approach to problem solving helped many libraries achieve more, including the development of several modern, fit for purpose library buildings. Her ability to push the boundaries of what a library can be is evident in her work for Te Takeretanga o Kura-hau-pō, Horowhenua’s Cultural and Community Centre, and Te Awahou Nieuwe Stroom in Foxton.
Hearing the call of implementing some of her own ideas herself, Nicki is currently the Manager of Arts, Culture and Lifelong Learning at Selwyn District Council. Along with new service developments, her next big contribution will arrive in the form of Te Ara Ātea, a new cultural heritage facility for Rolleston.
Nicki has been described as a visionary with contagious passion. She actively nurtures staff using a coaching model of development. Able to engage and motivate, Nicki has influenced library staff, Council politicians and executives to support libraries in growing strong and caring communities. Nicki is a supportive leader, strong networker, and encourages staff to be involved professionally.
Nicki is dedicated to LIANZA and has contributed widely to roles including council, regional committee member, project lead and advocate. She is a valued member of the Kōtui Board. She shares her knowledge widely in various forums.
Nicki’s strengths in developing transformational library services, her support and mentoring of staff and the sheer breadth and depth of her contribution, mean she is highly deserving of the award of fellowship.
What was your first response when you read the letter advising you had been awarded the highest level of professional recognition by LIANZA? What does this award mean to you?
My story is a little strange … the other night I was having trouble sleeping so I decided to spend a bit of time online. I don’t usually look at my work emails but I did that night. I remember it was 3.30am and I read the email from you, Ana, and the letter from Erica and was shocked to read that I had been awarded a Fellowship. It felt strange, yet very, very special. It was as if I was meant to open my emails in the middle of the night, just that once. I loved having the quiet of night to be able to reflect on this very special news. It is interesting how your career then races in front of your mind and I had a lovely hour just thinking about the people I’ve worked with, the libraries I’ve been in, here in New Zealand and also throughout the world. I also thought about the importance of our professional organisation and how I have always valued my membership. I thought about my mentors, my peers, and the many friends I’ve made as I have worked in our profession. You can image what a delectably rich hour it was as my mind journeyed through so many memories! Thank you
Sue Fargher
Sue Fargher is currently the Manager of the Central Hawkes' Bay District Libraries, a role that she has held for the last 27 years.
In addition to the challenges of leading a smaller rural library service where management is constantly balanced with day-to-day service delivery, Sue has demonstrated an exceptional level of dedication and commitment to her local community and to the library profession.
Sue has been a driving force in the development of the highly successful ECREADn Summer reading programme, having been a member of the inaugural committee and Convenor for the last 10 years. Sue has also presented on the ECREADn programme to LIANZA Conferences and other library professional development events. Under Sue’s convenorship, the Winter Reading and IREAD were also introduced. While providing leadership and vision for the ECREADn programme, Sue has also worked tirelessly on the production and distribution of the programme materials, in addition to her day job as a library manager.
Sue has been a strong advocate for small and medium sized public libraries, being elected to the inaugural committee of the Association of Public Library Managers where she held the portfolio of treasurer.
In 2013, Sue was awarded the LIANZA Ada Fache Scholarship which enabled her to travel to Sydney to attend the By Design: Public Library Places and Spaces in Australia and New Zealand Conference, which provided Sue with valuable insights after the Waipukurau Library was seriously damaged by a 7.4 magnitude earthquake off the east coast and assisted her with the rebuilding and community consultation.
In 2014, Sue responded to a call for Expressions of Interest for the LIANZA Conference Committee and accepted the role of chair of the Programme Committee, a role she ably performed at subsequent conferences with the support of fellow Committee members.
At a personal level, Sue has demonstrated a committed interest and support for her staff as a mentor, and by both encouraging and supporting her staff to explore and pursue professional development opportunities whenever and wherever they arise.
Sue’s leadership and achievements amply support her recognition by the award of a LIANZA Fellowship.
What was your first response when you read the letter advising you had been awarded the highest level of professional recognition by LIANZA? What does this award mean to you?
I was overwhelmed to receive this recognition from my peers. I shed a tear or two and after telling Tom I immediately rang my daughters. I feel very privileged to be receiving this LIANZA award.
Sue Fargher is currently the Manager of the Central Hawkes' Bay District Libraries, a role that she has held for the last 27 years.
In addition to the challenges of leading a smaller rural library service where management is constantly balanced with day-to-day service delivery, Sue has demonstrated an exceptional level of dedication and commitment to her local community and to the library profession.
Sue has been a driving force in the development of the highly successful ECREADn Summer reading programme, having been a member of the inaugural committee and Convenor for the last 10 years. Sue has also presented on the ECREADn programme to LIANZA Conferences and other library professional development events. Under Sue’s convenorship, the Winter Reading and IREAD were also introduced. While providing leadership and vision for the ECREADn programme, Sue has also worked tirelessly on the production and distribution of the programme materials, in addition to her day job as a library manager.
Sue has been a strong advocate for small and medium sized public libraries, being elected to the inaugural committee of the Association of Public Library Managers where she held the portfolio of treasurer.
In 2013, Sue was awarded the LIANZA Ada Fache Scholarship which enabled her to travel to Sydney to attend the By Design: Public Library Places and Spaces in Australia and New Zealand Conference, which provided Sue with valuable insights after the Waipukurau Library was seriously damaged by a 7.4 magnitude earthquake off the east coast and assisted her with the rebuilding and community consultation.
In 2014, Sue responded to a call for Expressions of Interest for the LIANZA Conference Committee and accepted the role of chair of the Programme Committee, a role she ably performed at subsequent conferences with the support of fellow Committee members.
At a personal level, Sue has demonstrated a committed interest and support for her staff as a mentor, and by both encouraging and supporting her staff to explore and pursue professional development opportunities whenever and wherever they arise.
Sue’s leadership and achievements amply support her recognition by the award of a LIANZA Fellowship.
What was your first response when you read the letter advising you had been awarded the highest level of professional recognition by LIANZA? What does this award mean to you?
I was overwhelmed to receive this recognition from my peers. I shed a tear or two and after telling Tom I immediately rang my daughters. I feel very privileged to be receiving this LIANZA award.
Marion Read
Marion’s career in libraries has spanned over four decades. She has had a huge impact not only on those who worked directly with her, but also to library services, facilities, and the wider library community throughout much of New Zealand.
Marion’s itinerant life and numerous leadership roles have enabled her to impact many libraries, mostly public, including Tokoroa, Whangarei, Tauranga, Rodney, Auckland, and Upper Hutt. Her successes include building projects for both the new Wellsford and Devonport Libraries, as well as the refurbishment of Takapuna, Northcote, and Upper Hutt Libraries.
The development of staff to enable the delivery of the Best Customer Experience programme across the Auckland Northern Libraries was one of Marion’s key outcomes, which she later took with her to implement in Upper Hutt Libraries.
Marion has provided outstanding and sustained leadership and management through her warm and encouraging personality, enthusiasm and passion for libraries, mentorship of staff, a relentlessly positive attitude, juggling of multiple projects, business acumen, and direct involvement in wider professional spheres including library and community organisations.
Marion’s list of involvements is substantial and includes roles as Chair or Convenor of the Association of Public Libraries, the ITPNZ Libraries Forum, LIANZA Public Libraries Special Interest Group and the LIANZA 1990 Whangarei Mini-Conference; and membership of the Kōtui Managers Executive Group, the APNK Advisory Group, eLGAR Board, and LIANZA Council. In 1993 Marion was awarded the G.T. Alley Fellowship allowing her to travel to the United States to observe funding options of middle-sized public libraries and on return compiled the “New Zealand Libraries Funding Kit” to strengthen the funding base of New Zealand libraries.
Marion has contributed greatly to the success of library staff and users, library facilities and services, and to the wider communities that libraries can reach. Her impact will be felt for generations. Marion is highly deserving of the award of a LIANZA Fellowship.
What was your first response when you read the letter advising you had been awarded the highest level of professional recognition by LIANZA? What does this award mean to you?
I was totally overwhelmed and speechless with the news and very humbled that colleagues thought enough of me to put the mahi into doing the nomination – there is a lot of work in preparing a nomination and I really appreciate it.
Being awarded the LIANZA Fellowship means so much to me. Since starting my first management role in Tokoroa forty two years ago I have always tried to make a positive difference both for our customers and the staff I work with. During this time I have met and worked with many amazing people who have been wonderful inspirational role models who helped shape my career. Being awarded the LIANZA Fellowship not only recognises the contribution to librarianship that I have been able to provide, but also all the fabulous people that have walked with me, and challenged me on my journey. To me this award is a culmination of my work and achievements in my career to date, and I do intend to be around for a while yet. I am absolutely blown away with the recognition of the Award so thank you everyone involved.
Marion’s career in libraries has spanned over four decades. She has had a huge impact not only on those who worked directly with her, but also to library services, facilities, and the wider library community throughout much of New Zealand.
Marion’s itinerant life and numerous leadership roles have enabled her to impact many libraries, mostly public, including Tokoroa, Whangarei, Tauranga, Rodney, Auckland, and Upper Hutt. Her successes include building projects for both the new Wellsford and Devonport Libraries, as well as the refurbishment of Takapuna, Northcote, and Upper Hutt Libraries.
The development of staff to enable the delivery of the Best Customer Experience programme across the Auckland Northern Libraries was one of Marion’s key outcomes, which she later took with her to implement in Upper Hutt Libraries.
Marion has provided outstanding and sustained leadership and management through her warm and encouraging personality, enthusiasm and passion for libraries, mentorship of staff, a relentlessly positive attitude, juggling of multiple projects, business acumen, and direct involvement in wider professional spheres including library and community organisations.
Marion’s list of involvements is substantial and includes roles as Chair or Convenor of the Association of Public Libraries, the ITPNZ Libraries Forum, LIANZA Public Libraries Special Interest Group and the LIANZA 1990 Whangarei Mini-Conference; and membership of the Kōtui Managers Executive Group, the APNK Advisory Group, eLGAR Board, and LIANZA Council. In 1993 Marion was awarded the G.T. Alley Fellowship allowing her to travel to the United States to observe funding options of middle-sized public libraries and on return compiled the “New Zealand Libraries Funding Kit” to strengthen the funding base of New Zealand libraries.
Marion has contributed greatly to the success of library staff and users, library facilities and services, and to the wider communities that libraries can reach. Her impact will be felt for generations. Marion is highly deserving of the award of a LIANZA Fellowship.
What was your first response when you read the letter advising you had been awarded the highest level of professional recognition by LIANZA? What does this award mean to you?
I was totally overwhelmed and speechless with the news and very humbled that colleagues thought enough of me to put the mahi into doing the nomination – there is a lot of work in preparing a nomination and I really appreciate it.
Being awarded the LIANZA Fellowship means so much to me. Since starting my first management role in Tokoroa forty two years ago I have always tried to make a positive difference both for our customers and the staff I work with. During this time I have met and worked with many amazing people who have been wonderful inspirational role models who helped shape my career. Being awarded the LIANZA Fellowship not only recognises the contribution to librarianship that I have been able to provide, but also all the fabulous people that have walked with me, and challenged me on my journey. To me this award is a culmination of my work and achievements in my career to date, and I do intend to be around for a while yet. I am absolutely blown away with the recognition of the Award so thank you everyone involved.
Megan Clark
We would like to award Megan Clark a LIANZA Fellowship. This is in recognition of her sustained professional contribution including her outstanding leadership and advocacy within the health sector and for being an active and visible member of LIANZA.
Megan is described by her colleagues as a high performing professional librarian with a strong client service focus. She is also referred to as one of the most experienced health librarians in New Zealand, with a very extensive knowledge of medical and health information resources and their application within both educational and clinical environments.
Megan has several significant achievements that demonstrate her positive impact on the library sector. This includes her significant achievement in the areas of teaching and research, and research-based medicine. Megan was central to a research project that resulted in improvements for the way doctors are taught to source information to make clinical decisions. This work has been widely cited and has been recognised by the Ministry of Health.
A second significant achievement is the work she did with the Ministry of Health to investigate and recommend the development of an electronic health library that would be accessible across district health boards. Although this didn’t lead to the envisioned library it did mean that centralised purchasing for key health information resources such as Cochrane Systematic Reviews was ensured. Cochrane systematic reviews are now purchased nationally, and all New Zealanders have free access to reliable up-to-date evidence on medical interventions. The impact of this can’t be underestimated.
Megan’s teaching experience through her work also meant that she was well placed to contribute to the teaching of health information courses through Victoria University’s Library and Information Studies programme. These were offered as special topics and co-ordinated by Emeritus Professor Rowena Cullen.
Megan has also been an inspiring and supportive mentor to many library colleagues in the health sector over the years. We believe that Megan is highly deserving of the award of LIANZA Fellowship.
What was your first response when you read the letter advising you had been awarded the highest level of professional recognition by LIANZA? What does this award mean to you?
My first response to receiving the news was one of elation. To be awarded a LIANZA Fellowship by my peers means so much to me. I felt honoured and grateful to my anonymous nominees for considering me a worthy recipient. My 43 years of active LIANZA membership has been really important to me. I believe everything I have put in to LIANZA has been returned many times over in personal and professional development, life-long friends and colleagues. It is still a bit hard to believe it.
We would like to award Megan Clark a LIANZA Fellowship. This is in recognition of her sustained professional contribution including her outstanding leadership and advocacy within the health sector and for being an active and visible member of LIANZA.
Megan is described by her colleagues as a high performing professional librarian with a strong client service focus. She is also referred to as one of the most experienced health librarians in New Zealand, with a very extensive knowledge of medical and health information resources and their application within both educational and clinical environments.
Megan has several significant achievements that demonstrate her positive impact on the library sector. This includes her significant achievement in the areas of teaching and research, and research-based medicine. Megan was central to a research project that resulted in improvements for the way doctors are taught to source information to make clinical decisions. This work has been widely cited and has been recognised by the Ministry of Health.
A second significant achievement is the work she did with the Ministry of Health to investigate and recommend the development of an electronic health library that would be accessible across district health boards. Although this didn’t lead to the envisioned library it did mean that centralised purchasing for key health information resources such as Cochrane Systematic Reviews was ensured. Cochrane systematic reviews are now purchased nationally, and all New Zealanders have free access to reliable up-to-date evidence on medical interventions. The impact of this can’t be underestimated.
Megan’s teaching experience through her work also meant that she was well placed to contribute to the teaching of health information courses through Victoria University’s Library and Information Studies programme. These were offered as special topics and co-ordinated by Emeritus Professor Rowena Cullen.
Megan has also been an inspiring and supportive mentor to many library colleagues in the health sector over the years. We believe that Megan is highly deserving of the award of LIANZA Fellowship.
What was your first response when you read the letter advising you had been awarded the highest level of professional recognition by LIANZA? What does this award mean to you?
My first response to receiving the news was one of elation. To be awarded a LIANZA Fellowship by my peers means so much to me. I felt honoured and grateful to my anonymous nominees for considering me a worthy recipient. My 43 years of active LIANZA membership has been really important to me. I believe everything I have put in to LIANZA has been returned many times over in personal and professional development, life-long friends and colleagues. It is still a bit hard to believe it.
Paula Eskett
Paula is currently the Waimakariri District Council Libraries Manager.
Paula’s library career started in at Christchurch City Libraries before a move to Riccarton High School as their library manager, initially at the school, and then as part of the Upper Riccarton School and Community Library. She has carried this passion for learning, teaching and research throughout her career, as a content writer for the Open Polytechnic LIS courses, in Services to Schools at the National Library, her work at CORE Education where she was the first non-teacher to be awarded a CORE Education eFellowship, and her LIANZA advocacy, and as a mentor to colleagues throughout the profession.
Paula has served on the LIANZA Aoraki committee, was the convenor of the LIANZA 2017 Conference, and was LIANZA President 2018-9. She has represented LIANZA with IFLA, including our World Library and Information Congress bid, Government ministers, and on multiple forums.
Paula is currently a commissioner for the Library and Information Advisory Commission.
Paula has been a vocal advocate of the contribution that libraries make to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. As a result of her passion, she has represented New Zealand on the topic to audiences in Australia, Canada, Portugal, Bangladesh, and across the world via Zoom, highlighting the possibilities, and the achievements of New Zealand in this area. She has also been heavily involved with promoting Creative Commons, receiving an IoL2 Fellowship to the Institute of Open Leadership in South Africa, presenting at Creative Commons Global Summits and is a graduate of the Creative Commons global certificate programme.
Paula shares her knowledge and skills willingly, having published multiple research papers, being interviewed on the radio, and presenting at multiple conferences every year.
Paula’s continued exceptional advocacy, her warm and enthusiastic representation of LIANZA and New Zealand, and her range of achievements make her a worthy recipient of a LIANZA Fellowship.
What was your first response when you read the letter advising you had been awarded the highest level of professional recognition by LIANZA? What does this award mean to you?
To be honest, my first reaction was tears and utter disbelief.
After holding off for the last few years, and finding excuses to not put myself forward for a LIANZA associateship candidacy, it was the last thing I expected to read.
Peer to peer recognition means an exceptional amount to me. Our profession, our people and the diversity of the sectors we work in has motivated, stimulated and inspired me for many, many years.
To be nominated for a LIANZA Fellowship by peers who you admire, trust and have enormous professional respect actually means more to me than a formal certificate for something I’ve worked towards.
Equally important to me is knowing the mahi, commitment and grit of those who have gained LIANZA Fellowships before. Looking at the names of people awarded LIANZA Fellowships from as far back as 1964, there are names that I know of, and influencers I have worked for and with. The ground they’ve broken, the communities they’ve served, the disruptive innovation they have led and the inspiration they’ve been as they’ve continually positioned, advocated for and repositioned the value position, and place for libraries in the eye of their communities, stakeholders and politically, has laid the path for us all working in this amazing profession.
Receiving a LIANZA Fellowship Award is an incredible career highlight.
Tangata ako ana i te kāenga, te tūranga ki te marae, tau ana.
A person nurtured in the community contributes strongly to society
Paula is currently the Waimakariri District Council Libraries Manager.
Paula’s library career started in at Christchurch City Libraries before a move to Riccarton High School as their library manager, initially at the school, and then as part of the Upper Riccarton School and Community Library. She has carried this passion for learning, teaching and research throughout her career, as a content writer for the Open Polytechnic LIS courses, in Services to Schools at the National Library, her work at CORE Education where she was the first non-teacher to be awarded a CORE Education eFellowship, and her LIANZA advocacy, and as a mentor to colleagues throughout the profession.
Paula has served on the LIANZA Aoraki committee, was the convenor of the LIANZA 2017 Conference, and was LIANZA President 2018-9. She has represented LIANZA with IFLA, including our World Library and Information Congress bid, Government ministers, and on multiple forums.
Paula is currently a commissioner for the Library and Information Advisory Commission.
Paula has been a vocal advocate of the contribution that libraries make to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. As a result of her passion, she has represented New Zealand on the topic to audiences in Australia, Canada, Portugal, Bangladesh, and across the world via Zoom, highlighting the possibilities, and the achievements of New Zealand in this area. She has also been heavily involved with promoting Creative Commons, receiving an IoL2 Fellowship to the Institute of Open Leadership in South Africa, presenting at Creative Commons Global Summits and is a graduate of the Creative Commons global certificate programme.
Paula shares her knowledge and skills willingly, having published multiple research papers, being interviewed on the radio, and presenting at multiple conferences every year.
Paula’s continued exceptional advocacy, her warm and enthusiastic representation of LIANZA and New Zealand, and her range of achievements make her a worthy recipient of a LIANZA Fellowship.
What was your first response when you read the letter advising you had been awarded the highest level of professional recognition by LIANZA? What does this award mean to you?
To be honest, my first reaction was tears and utter disbelief.
After holding off for the last few years, and finding excuses to not put myself forward for a LIANZA associateship candidacy, it was the last thing I expected to read.
Peer to peer recognition means an exceptional amount to me. Our profession, our people and the diversity of the sectors we work in has motivated, stimulated and inspired me for many, many years.
To be nominated for a LIANZA Fellowship by peers who you admire, trust and have enormous professional respect actually means more to me than a formal certificate for something I’ve worked towards.
Equally important to me is knowing the mahi, commitment and grit of those who have gained LIANZA Fellowships before. Looking at the names of people awarded LIANZA Fellowships from as far back as 1964, there are names that I know of, and influencers I have worked for and with. The ground they’ve broken, the communities they’ve served, the disruptive innovation they have led and the inspiration they’ve been as they’ve continually positioned, advocated for and repositioned the value position, and place for libraries in the eye of their communities, stakeholders and politically, has laid the path for us all working in this amazing profession.
Receiving a LIANZA Fellowship Award is an incredible career highlight.
Tangata ako ana i te kāenga, te tūranga ki te marae, tau ana.
A person nurtured in the community contributes strongly to society
Judy McFall-McCaffery
Judy Taligalu McFall-McCaffery is awarded a LIANZA Fellowship in recognition of her sustained and significant leadership in the library community, particularly her contribution to Pacific peoples through librarianship and tautua (service) to the Pacific community.
Judy is the Pacific Academic Engagement Advisor at Te Tumu Herenga University of Auckland, where her work promotes Pacific success in learning, teaching and research, raises visibility, and implements academic engagement activities.
Judy is committed to growing the capacity of our profession to provide high-quality services to Pacific peoples in New Zealand and in the Pacific region.
As a key founding member of the LIANZA Pasifika Information Management Network (PIMN) in 2004, and as a LIANZA SIG in 2009, Judy has always provided strong leadership to the group, as the group’s first convenor, and then mentoring others into the different roles needed to run the group. PIMN has grown into a well-established and regarded special interest group, with Judy being, to quote one of her nominees “the glue that makes the SIG one of the most dynamic and rewarding SIGS for people to belong to”. Judy was one of the main lynchpins behind the very successful LIANZA 2019 Conference in Manukau, in bringing together a memorable, influential, and distinctly Pasifika conference, to wide acclaim.
Judy is recognised nationally and internationally, with vast relationships throughout New Zealand, the Pacific Islands, and worldwide. She has continued to encourage strong connections between the library profession in New Zealand, and the wider Pacific Islands. She is also active in her research, including strategies for recruitment and retention of Pacific in the library and information management profession; Pacific information literacy, Pacific languages policy and biliteracy, and Pacific research models and methodologies.
In recognition of the high regard Judy is held in, she has the matai title Umumaluolelagi Judy Taligalu McFall-McCaffery, which is an honour in the Samoan culture. Her values of fa’aaloalo (respect), mafana (warmth), ofa (love) and a’iga (family), are present in all that she does, continuing to help the sector thrive by encouraging youth into the world of whare taonga. Judy is a worthy recipient of a LIANZA Fellowship.
What was your first response when you read the letter advising you had been awarded the highest level of professional recognition by LIANZA? What does this award mean to you?
Malo le soifua, Malo e lelei, Kia ora koutou Warm Pacific greetings - It is very humbling to be considered and given this recognition by the profession. After reading it first time, I took a break and came back and read it again to make sure 😊.
Fa’afetai tele lava! My grateful thanks and appreciation to those who made the recommendation and the citation, as this is as much for Pasifika as it is for my aiga. This is a shared award with all those amazing colleagues, friends and whanau in the profession and in the community too many to name. I would not have been able to do and continue to do this mahi without you all, your support and aroha. O le tele o sulu e maua ai figota – Our strength comes from many. Ia manuia.
Judy Taligalu McFall-McCaffery is awarded a LIANZA Fellowship in recognition of her sustained and significant leadership in the library community, particularly her contribution to Pacific peoples through librarianship and tautua (service) to the Pacific community.
Judy is the Pacific Academic Engagement Advisor at Te Tumu Herenga University of Auckland, where her work promotes Pacific success in learning, teaching and research, raises visibility, and implements academic engagement activities.
Judy is committed to growing the capacity of our profession to provide high-quality services to Pacific peoples in New Zealand and in the Pacific region.
As a key founding member of the LIANZA Pasifika Information Management Network (PIMN) in 2004, and as a LIANZA SIG in 2009, Judy has always provided strong leadership to the group, as the group’s first convenor, and then mentoring others into the different roles needed to run the group. PIMN has grown into a well-established and regarded special interest group, with Judy being, to quote one of her nominees “the glue that makes the SIG one of the most dynamic and rewarding SIGS for people to belong to”. Judy was one of the main lynchpins behind the very successful LIANZA 2019 Conference in Manukau, in bringing together a memorable, influential, and distinctly Pasifika conference, to wide acclaim.
Judy is recognised nationally and internationally, with vast relationships throughout New Zealand, the Pacific Islands, and worldwide. She has continued to encourage strong connections between the library profession in New Zealand, and the wider Pacific Islands. She is also active in her research, including strategies for recruitment and retention of Pacific in the library and information management profession; Pacific information literacy, Pacific languages policy and biliteracy, and Pacific research models and methodologies.
In recognition of the high regard Judy is held in, she has the matai title Umumaluolelagi Judy Taligalu McFall-McCaffery, which is an honour in the Samoan culture. Her values of fa’aaloalo (respect), mafana (warmth), ofa (love) and a’iga (family), are present in all that she does, continuing to help the sector thrive by encouraging youth into the world of whare taonga. Judy is a worthy recipient of a LIANZA Fellowship.
What was your first response when you read the letter advising you had been awarded the highest level of professional recognition by LIANZA? What does this award mean to you?
Malo le soifua, Malo e lelei, Kia ora koutou Warm Pacific greetings - It is very humbling to be considered and given this recognition by the profession. After reading it first time, I took a break and came back and read it again to make sure 😊.
Fa’afetai tele lava! My grateful thanks and appreciation to those who made the recommendation and the citation, as this is as much for Pasifika as it is for my aiga. This is a shared award with all those amazing colleagues, friends and whanau in the profession and in the community too many to name. I would not have been able to do and continue to do this mahi without you all, your support and aroha. O le tele o sulu e maua ai figota – Our strength comes from many. Ia manuia.
LIANZA Associateship
A LIANZA associateship is a significant professional achievement and demonstrates commitment to professional learning, the impact the applicant makes in their workplace and contribution to the wider library and information sector. Applicants can apply for a LIANZA Associateship right from the early stages of their career.
Congratulations to Paula Eskett and Jacinta Osman who are awarded LIANZA Associateships.
A LIANZA associateship is a significant professional achievement and demonstrates commitment to professional learning, the impact the applicant makes in their workplace and contribution to the wider library and information sector. Applicants can apply for a LIANZA Associateship right from the early stages of their career.
Congratulations to Paula Eskett and Jacinta Osman who are awarded LIANZA Associateships.
Jacinta Osman
Jacinta is currently the Senior Librarian, Collections at Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology.
Jacinta’s career started in Tauranga District Libraries, before moving into Special Libraries at PricewaterhouseCoopers, working her way up to the position of Research Manager. In 2013 she joined the team at Toi Ohomai, in Technical Services.
Jacinta is customer focused, continually looking for ways to improve the customer experience. She was a key member of the project team that launched a new library management system and discovery service at Toi Ohomai. This involved merging two legacy systems into one and was described by senior leadership as “being the smoothest IT project they had ever worked on”, with Jacinta going on to co-present on the experience at Kohacon20.
She was also heavily involved in the merger of Bay of Plenty Polytechnic and Waiariki Institute of Technology to become Toi Ohomai Institute of technology. This involved starting over for both organisations, deciding the libraries’ philosophy, borrowing policies, and ways of working together.
Jacinta has a strong strategic focus, considering a wide range of perspectives. At the heart of her approach is how best Toi Ohomai Library can develop its services to increase the success of students and be a supportive partner for teaching, including training and mentoring other library staff.
Jacinta is a deserving recipient of a LIANZA Associateship.
Firstly, congratulations – your award is so well deserved. LIANZA is keen to encourage more people to put themselves forward for an associateship. I can imagine there might be a bit of imposter syndrome nagging at the back of your mind when you do it, even if you really deserve it! Can you please comment on why you applied for the associateship and if you would advocate that others do so also? Did you get a nudge from a friend or colleague?
I am lucky to have a very supportive manager who has been encouraging me to apply for the last 3 years. I think that many people don’t realise that the Associateship is actually aimed at mid-career librarians, and so many librarians who think they would not be successful in getting an Associateship would actually be fully eligible. I definitely recommend considering applying, and if you’re unsure as to whether you would be eligible, contact a member of the LIANZA Credentials Committee. It’s also a great way of showing your commitment to the Library sector and being able to reflect on everything you’ve achieved.
What would you say to people who feel awkward or unsure about putting themselves forward?
I would say feel the fear and do it anyway! It helped me to think of the Associateship as more of an additional qualification, rather than an award. Along with my Professional Registration, it’s recognition of the career I’ve created and what I’ve learned in the 20+ years since I graduated with my MLIS degree. I think in New Zealand we naturally have a reluctance to make a big deal of our achievements but we need to take time to celebrate what we’ve accomplished, and applying for the Associateship was a great way of doing that for myself.
Jacinta is currently the Senior Librarian, Collections at Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology.
Jacinta’s career started in Tauranga District Libraries, before moving into Special Libraries at PricewaterhouseCoopers, working her way up to the position of Research Manager. In 2013 she joined the team at Toi Ohomai, in Technical Services.
Jacinta is customer focused, continually looking for ways to improve the customer experience. She was a key member of the project team that launched a new library management system and discovery service at Toi Ohomai. This involved merging two legacy systems into one and was described by senior leadership as “being the smoothest IT project they had ever worked on”, with Jacinta going on to co-present on the experience at Kohacon20.
She was also heavily involved in the merger of Bay of Plenty Polytechnic and Waiariki Institute of Technology to become Toi Ohomai Institute of technology. This involved starting over for both organisations, deciding the libraries’ philosophy, borrowing policies, and ways of working together.
Jacinta has a strong strategic focus, considering a wide range of perspectives. At the heart of her approach is how best Toi Ohomai Library can develop its services to increase the success of students and be a supportive partner for teaching, including training and mentoring other library staff.
Jacinta is a deserving recipient of a LIANZA Associateship.
Firstly, congratulations – your award is so well deserved. LIANZA is keen to encourage more people to put themselves forward for an associateship. I can imagine there might be a bit of imposter syndrome nagging at the back of your mind when you do it, even if you really deserve it! Can you please comment on why you applied for the associateship and if you would advocate that others do so also? Did you get a nudge from a friend or colleague?
I am lucky to have a very supportive manager who has been encouraging me to apply for the last 3 years. I think that many people don’t realise that the Associateship is actually aimed at mid-career librarians, and so many librarians who think they would not be successful in getting an Associateship would actually be fully eligible. I definitely recommend considering applying, and if you’re unsure as to whether you would be eligible, contact a member of the LIANZA Credentials Committee. It’s also a great way of showing your commitment to the Library sector and being able to reflect on everything you’ve achieved.
What would you say to people who feel awkward or unsure about putting themselves forward?
I would say feel the fear and do it anyway! It helped me to think of the Associateship as more of an additional qualification, rather than an award. Along with my Professional Registration, it’s recognition of the career I’ve created and what I’ve learned in the 20+ years since I graduated with my MLIS degree. I think in New Zealand we naturally have a reluctance to make a big deal of our achievements but we need to take time to celebrate what we’ve accomplished, and applying for the Associateship was a great way of doing that for myself.
Paula Eskett
Paula is a deserving recipient of a LIANZA Associateship. She can use both LIANZA Associateship and Fellowship post-nominals, having successfully met the criteria for both awards.
Paula is a deserving recipient of a LIANZA Associateship. She can use both LIANZA Associateship and Fellowship post-nominals, having successfully met the criteria for both awards.
LIANZA Letters of Recognition
A LIANZA Letter of Recognition is awarded to an individual or organisation that has rendered a significant and special service to the library and information profession within New Zealand Aotearoa or demonstrated commitment to the profession over a period of time. Any individual, group or organisation is eligible with no membership requirement and is nominated at least two LIANZA members.
Congratulations to Annie McKillop, Claudine Tapsell, and Natalie Smith are awarded LIANZA Letters of Recognition.
A LIANZA Letter of Recognition is awarded to an individual or organisation that has rendered a significant and special service to the library and information profession within New Zealand Aotearoa or demonstrated commitment to the profession over a period of time. Any individual, group or organisation is eligible with no membership requirement and is nominated at least two LIANZA members.
Congratulations to Annie McKillop, Claudine Tapsell, and Natalie Smith are awarded LIANZA Letters of Recognition.
Annie McKillop
Annie is awarded a LIANZA Letter of Recognition for her contributions to the LIANZA Research SIG.
Annie chaired this special interest group 2015 to 2021 during which time the group delivered two one-day symposia in Auckland, attracting delegates from across the country. She helped to develop a research tool kit and advocated for and organised the allocation of two research awards. Most recently, she initiated a partnership with LIANZA TEL SIG, and together the two special interest groups organised the highly successful two-day symposium in Wellington, Tātou Tātou Gather and Grow in February 2021.
LIANZA RES SIG, under her guidance, has raised awareness of the importance of evidence-based practice and shown that conducting research to inform decisions is something we all can and should do. The symposia in particular, have provided a much-needed platform to share the “how-to” and “why-this-matters” of research-based decision making in libraries across Aotearoa/New Zealand.
Finally, Annie nurtured emerging professionals, encouraging them, along with experienced librarians, to contribute to this vibrant and collegial group, thus proving that LIANZA social interest group membership can be both rewarding and fun!
Congratulations, Annie.
What was your first response when you read the letter advising you were the recipient of a LIANZA Letter of Recognition ? What does the award mean to you?
Wow what an unexpected honour, and especially as during my LIANZA RES-SIG experience I feel I learned more than I gave. We get so much more back than we put in - there is a magic formula around giving and receiving! It was enormously fulfilling, and of course challenging. I grew so much professionally and personally from being in, and then chairing LIANZA RES-SIG. And I have used those skills and my new confidence in "service leadership" in other aspects of my career and personal life. I feel sad not to be in libraries any more, but I am still using those skills believe me!
Annie is awarded a LIANZA Letter of Recognition for her contributions to the LIANZA Research SIG.
Annie chaired this special interest group 2015 to 2021 during which time the group delivered two one-day symposia in Auckland, attracting delegates from across the country. She helped to develop a research tool kit and advocated for and organised the allocation of two research awards. Most recently, she initiated a partnership with LIANZA TEL SIG, and together the two special interest groups organised the highly successful two-day symposium in Wellington, Tātou Tātou Gather and Grow in February 2021.
LIANZA RES SIG, under her guidance, has raised awareness of the importance of evidence-based practice and shown that conducting research to inform decisions is something we all can and should do. The symposia in particular, have provided a much-needed platform to share the “how-to” and “why-this-matters” of research-based decision making in libraries across Aotearoa/New Zealand.
Finally, Annie nurtured emerging professionals, encouraging them, along with experienced librarians, to contribute to this vibrant and collegial group, thus proving that LIANZA social interest group membership can be both rewarding and fun!
Congratulations, Annie.
What was your first response when you read the letter advising you were the recipient of a LIANZA Letter of Recognition ? What does the award mean to you?
Wow what an unexpected honour, and especially as during my LIANZA RES-SIG experience I feel I learned more than I gave. We get so much more back than we put in - there is a magic formula around giving and receiving! It was enormously fulfilling, and of course challenging. I grew so much professionally and personally from being in, and then chairing LIANZA RES-SIG. And I have used those skills and my new confidence in "service leadership" in other aspects of my career and personal life. I feel sad not to be in libraries any more, but I am still using those skills believe me!
Claudine Tapsell
Claudine is awarded a LIANZA Letter of Recognition for her contribution to reading engagement as a young adult librarian.
Claudine systematically removes barriers to reading for ākonga, delivering the highly successful Reading Engagement Across the Curriculum Programme. The programme has been adopted as part of the year 9 curriculum in both English and Health, demonstrating how reading is connected to hauora. The kaupapa of the programme is to promote reading for enjoyment and connect readers to literature in a format appropriate to their individual needs, with the programme now reaching well over a thousand mixed-ability students each year and seeing significant results in student achievement.
Claudine’s extensive knowledge of Young Adult Fiction has allowed her to guide students of all abilities towards a text that speaks to them. As one teacher described:
“Nothing was a problem, and the class, full of mostly reluctant and struggling readers, have all engaged with their text and written some great responses. I would have been at a loss without her wide knowledge of texts”.
Claudine has shared her knowledge, presenting at SLANZA, LIANZA Aoraki Weekend School and CETA.
Congratulations, Claudine.
What was your first response when you read the letter advising you were the recipient of a LIANZA Letter of Recognition ? What does the award mean to you?
Upon hearing that I had received this LIANZA Letter of Recognition I was thrilled that my mahi in the area of Reading Engagement in High Schools had obtained such a wonderful acknowledgement. I am incredibly appreciative of the people who contributed to my nomination.
I am 100% committed to removing barriers that prevent our rangatahi from accessing and enjoying reading, and I feel honoured to have received this award which recognises the value and importance of library run reading engagement programmes for our ākonga.
Claudine is awarded a LIANZA Letter of Recognition for her contribution to reading engagement as a young adult librarian.
Claudine systematically removes barriers to reading for ākonga, delivering the highly successful Reading Engagement Across the Curriculum Programme. The programme has been adopted as part of the year 9 curriculum in both English and Health, demonstrating how reading is connected to hauora. The kaupapa of the programme is to promote reading for enjoyment and connect readers to literature in a format appropriate to their individual needs, with the programme now reaching well over a thousand mixed-ability students each year and seeing significant results in student achievement.
Claudine’s extensive knowledge of Young Adult Fiction has allowed her to guide students of all abilities towards a text that speaks to them. As one teacher described:
“Nothing was a problem, and the class, full of mostly reluctant and struggling readers, have all engaged with their text and written some great responses. I would have been at a loss without her wide knowledge of texts”.
Claudine has shared her knowledge, presenting at SLANZA, LIANZA Aoraki Weekend School and CETA.
Congratulations, Claudine.
What was your first response when you read the letter advising you were the recipient of a LIANZA Letter of Recognition ? What does the award mean to you?
Upon hearing that I had received this LIANZA Letter of Recognition I was thrilled that my mahi in the area of Reading Engagement in High Schools had obtained such a wonderful acknowledgement. I am incredibly appreciative of the people who contributed to my nomination.
I am 100% committed to removing barriers that prevent our rangatahi from accessing and enjoying reading, and I feel honoured to have received this award which recognises the value and importance of library run reading engagement programmes for our ākonga.
Natalie Smith
Natalie Smith is awarded a Letter of Recognition for her contributions to LIANZA.
Natalie is currently the co-convenor of LIANZA TEL SIG, helping to grow the committee and creating a swell of interest an activity in the SIG events.
She co-led the highly successful Tātou Tātou: Gather and Grow symposium, run jointly by the LIANZA Research SIG and TEL SIG.
At the same time, she has been on the Strategic Leadership and Governance Group Review of LIANZA, bringing her tertiary and school library perspectives to the work. This involved reviewing the current governance model, identifying strengths and weaknesses, and looking at the relationships both within LIANZA and externally with stakeholders.
Natalie is on the conference committee for this year’s conference and is also on the committee for LIANZA Te Ūpoko o te Ika a Maui.
Natalie’s amazing work ethic, organisation, enthusiasm, and engagement has made her a valued asset to the work of the association.
Congratulations, Natalie.
What was your first response when you read the letter advising you were the recipient of a LIANZA Letter of Recognition ? What does the award mean to you?
When I read that I had received this award, I was surprised as it was unexpected, and made my day. The award encourages me to continue supporting LIANZA and provides acknowledgement and recognition for doing so.
Natalie Smith is awarded a Letter of Recognition for her contributions to LIANZA.
Natalie is currently the co-convenor of LIANZA TEL SIG, helping to grow the committee and creating a swell of interest an activity in the SIG events.
She co-led the highly successful Tātou Tātou: Gather and Grow symposium, run jointly by the LIANZA Research SIG and TEL SIG.
At the same time, she has been on the Strategic Leadership and Governance Group Review of LIANZA, bringing her tertiary and school library perspectives to the work. This involved reviewing the current governance model, identifying strengths and weaknesses, and looking at the relationships both within LIANZA and externally with stakeholders.
Natalie is on the conference committee for this year’s conference and is also on the committee for LIANZA Te Ūpoko o te Ika a Maui.
Natalie’s amazing work ethic, organisation, enthusiasm, and engagement has made her a valued asset to the work of the association.
Congratulations, Natalie.
What was your first response when you read the letter advising you were the recipient of a LIANZA Letter of Recognition ? What does the award mean to you?
When I read that I had received this award, I was surprised as it was unexpected, and made my day. The award encourages me to continue supporting LIANZA and provides acknowledgement and recognition for doing so.
LIANZA Joint Letter of Recognition for Bicultural Development
The LIANZA Joint Letter of Recognition can be awarded to individuals, groups or organisations for outstanding bicultural contribution to librarianship, libraries or information management in Aotearoa New Zealand. Any individual, group or organisation is eligible with no membership, or other requirement and nominations are made by one LIANZA member and one Te Rōpu Whakahau member.
Congratulations to Mohan Lal who is awarded a LIANZA Joint Letter of Recognition for Bicultural Development
The LIANZA Joint Letter of Recognition can be awarded to individuals, groups or organisations for outstanding bicultural contribution to librarianship, libraries or information management in Aotearoa New Zealand. Any individual, group or organisation is eligible with no membership, or other requirement and nominations are made by one LIANZA member and one Te Rōpu Whakahau member.
Congratulations to Mohan Lal who is awarded a LIANZA Joint Letter of Recognition for Bicultural Development
Mohan Lal
Mohan is awarded a LIANZA Joint Letter of Recognition for Bicultural Development.
Mohan is actively engaged in connecting with tangata whenua both within Te Wānanga o Aotearoa and with iwi and hapu in the rohe where he lives. This relationship has won him praise from the iwi and hapu within Te Arawa, and his is currently writing the biography of a prominent Te Arawa kaumatua, Te Ariki Morehu.
At LIANZA Te Whakakitenga aa Kaimai Weekend Schools, he has led pohiri as Kaikōrero. He has extensive knowledge of Māori information sources, Land Court Minute Books, and iwi and hapu histories.
He has written articles for journals and presented papers at Regional, National, and International conferences regarding engaging tangata whenua in the wharepukapuka space, underpinned by tikanga and āhuatanga Māori. He has created and practices a framework called the pōhiri poutama model of service delivery, underpinned by Māori worldview.
As a member and chair of Te Whakakitenga aa Kaimai regional committee, he has supported the committee through their journey with Mātauranga Māori, tikanga and the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
Congratulations, Mohan.
What was your first response when you read the letter advising you were the recipient of a LIANZA Letter Joint Letter of Recognition ? What does the award mean to you?
I was excited to have received the award. It means a lot to me, especially being recognised by my peers for the work I love to do. This award will motivate me to do more in the future to build a strong bicultural focus in everything to do for the library community and to tauira with whom I work.
Mohan is awarded a LIANZA Joint Letter of Recognition for Bicultural Development.
Mohan is actively engaged in connecting with tangata whenua both within Te Wānanga o Aotearoa and with iwi and hapu in the rohe where he lives. This relationship has won him praise from the iwi and hapu within Te Arawa, and his is currently writing the biography of a prominent Te Arawa kaumatua, Te Ariki Morehu.
At LIANZA Te Whakakitenga aa Kaimai Weekend Schools, he has led pohiri as Kaikōrero. He has extensive knowledge of Māori information sources, Land Court Minute Books, and iwi and hapu histories.
He has written articles for journals and presented papers at Regional, National, and International conferences regarding engaging tangata whenua in the wharepukapuka space, underpinned by tikanga and āhuatanga Māori. He has created and practices a framework called the pōhiri poutama model of service delivery, underpinned by Māori worldview.
As a member and chair of Te Whakakitenga aa Kaimai regional committee, he has supported the committee through their journey with Mātauranga Māori, tikanga and the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
Congratulations, Mohan.
What was your first response when you read the letter advising you were the recipient of a LIANZA Letter Joint Letter of Recognition ? What does the award mean to you?
I was excited to have received the award. It means a lot to me, especially being recognised by my peers for the work I love to do. This award will motivate me to do more in the future to build a strong bicultural focus in everything to do for the library community and to tauira with whom I work.
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