Triple Dedication Ceremony at the Library

PRESS RELEASE
15th December 2011

Triple Dedication Ceremony at the Library

A triple dedication ceremony by the Rev. Tom Poata and attended by Rotorua District Library and RDC staff, Councillors and invited guests recognised two outstanding Rotorua citizens as well as three taonga recently gifted to the Council.

The Family History Room on the second floor of Rotorua District Library was dedicated to recently deceased NZ Services Librarian, Mary Ellen Wilson. She had worked at the library for 25 years and was a very experienced reference librarian with a particular strength in the Family History area. Library staff and management were keen to recognise Mary Ellen’s unwavering enthusiasm and commitment to her profession where she helped so many people with their research.

Similarly, a plaque to honour the late Rotorua historian, Don Stafford, was dedicated in the research room which has carried his name for some years and houses many of his books, files and notes on Rotorua’s history. Like Ms Wilson, Don’s commitment to others by sharing his knowledge and expertise has helped a wide range of people to further their own knowledge.

Three locally carved pou, which were inherited from Housing NZ, now stand proudly just inside the library. When Housing NZ relocated from their Arawa Street offices, they could no longer accommodate the pou, which were offered to Rotorua District Council. In turn, the Library felt privileged to be able to take over custodianship of these three beautiful taonga and offer a site where many people can see and enjoy them.
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