A grant leads Lewis Ioane to a dream career

Connecting with Māori and Pacific 

I've been in my role as Māori and Pacific Librarian for nearly a year now and I really enjoy being able to connect with our Māori and Pacific communities and help them in any way I can.

Qualification dream is becoming real

I was thrilled to be awarded the LIANZA SLANZA* Tertiary Grant, which has allowed me to return to study and pursue my dream of becoming a qualified librarian. As a full-time librarian, having one less thing to worry about (in this case, the course fees) was a weight off my shoulders and an encouragement for me to undertake studies to help qualify and advance myself as a library professional.

This grant's provided me with the opportunity to take on the study required for me to become a qualified librarian within my role at Porirua City Libraries without the strain or additional challenge of funding it myself.

Learning about library mahi from a manager's viewpoint 

I'm currently working towards a Postgraduate Certificate in Library and Information Leadership with Open Polytechnic Te Pūkenga. I've really enjoyed seeing what goes into our library mahi from a management-level perspective. I've learned about the importance of strategic planning, resource management, and staff development, and gained a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing libraries in the 21st century.

I hope to see more young people and Māori and Pasifika get into the library sector. Any current or potential library professional should also apply for this grant if they are considering studying or progressing in their library career. There're lots of different qualification options and the extra support the grant provides makes tertiary education accessible. 

Connecting across Aotearoa

This grant's also allowed me to connect with other librarians from across Aotearoa through the LIANZA online community and keep up to date with sector news and events.

I'm confident that the LIANZA SLANZA Tertiary Grant will help me to become a more effective librarian and leader. I'm excited to continue my studies and to use my new skills to make a positive difference in the lives of my community.

If you're a librarian or interested in a library career, and considering applying for the LIANZA SLANZA Tertiary Grant, I highly encourage you to do so. This grant's a valuable opportunity to advance your career and to make a difference in the library community.

*LIANZA – Library and Information Association New Zealand Aotearoa Te Rau Herenga o Aotearoa  SLANZA – School Library Association New Zealand Aotearoa

Find out more about grants and scholarships for tertiary study.

• LIANZA website - grants for library qualifications 
• General information about scholarships and grants for tertiary study