Upper Hutt Library Manager Recognized with Highest LIANZA Award

Published on 01 October 2021

2021-09-27 marion landscape.jpg

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. 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. 

During Marion’s six years as Manager of Upper Hutt Libraries she has helped drive various initiative such as making Upper Hutt Libraries Zero Fines policy one of the first of its kind in New Zealand, and more recently introducing Mangaroa, New Zealand’s first EV Mobile library service as a library outreach vehicle.

”I was totally overwhelmed and speechless with the news of the award, 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.”

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.

“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. I am absolutely blown away with the recognition of the Award so thank you everyone involved.”

Tagged as: