21 OCTOBER 2013
Libraries are an essential service so let’s start treating them that way
“Like roads, health care and education, libraries are an essential service. Libraries are not going anywhere and nor are
librarians” said Laurinda Thomas, President of the Library and Information Association of New Zealand Aotearoa (LIANZA)
in an inspiring address at the annual library conference in Hamilton today.
Ms Thomas delivered her uplifting speech to around 400 from libraries across the country who have come together to
share, learn and shape the future of the New Zealand library and information profession.
Libraries contribute to New Zealand’s educational outcomes, economy, business growth, community well-being,
technological innovation, ground breaking research, prisoner rehabilitation and public policy.
“Libraries are the backbone of New Zealand’s health, wealth and well-being, so let’s stop being shy about that”
“This conference allows us to share stories that connect us to why we are an essential service. Libraries connect
communities to the information, the people and the places, that can change their lives”.
Ms Thomas encouraged delegates to use the four days of conference to reflect on their roles as library and information
professionals, to celebrate their accomplishments and to reconnect with the impact their work has on the community.
“Librarians are passionate, smart, dedicated and innovative. We connect, we explore, we challenge. We are proud of what
we do”.
“We don’t just want to be part of the future; we are the future”.
The 2013 LIANZA Conference is held at the Claudelands Event Centre in Hamilton and runs until Wednesday 23 October.
More information about LIANZA Conference is available at www.lianza.org.nz/news-events/conferences/lianza-conference-2013
ENDS