Most of you know by now that I am the new Central Library Manager. For the past 6 years I was employed by Christchurch City Libraries (CCL). Most recently being the Community Librarian responsible for the Halswell Community Library and the Upper Riccarton and Akaroa joint use libraries.

Up until 2002 I had been employed as an Academic Staff Member at CPIT – teaching within the Faculty of Commerce. My main areas of teaching were software packages of Microsoft and general business administration courses. For a time I was the Programmes Co-ordinator for all of the Office Technology programmes.

My move to libraries was prompted by the completion of the MLIS and my interest to work with managing electronic information. However, opportunities came up within the community libraries network and I changed my focus.

I have had a varied working background starting out as a secondary school teacher; then a PA/Administrator for TVNZ here in Christchurch; an Academic Staff Member at CPIT; Community Librarian for CCL and now the move to Canterbury University.

With help from you all I will become familiar with the processes and practices both of the library and the university. In return you get to have my opinions and ideas whenever I can get people to listen.

On the personal side, I am single with no children of my own. Thankfully, I have been able to share the children of my brothers and sisters and those of my friends. I grew up in Invercargill and despite the fact that I have not lived there for about 30 years I sometimes roll my R in conversation.

I enjoy the outdoors and have tramped on many of the easy to moderate walks in the South Island. I am a regular member of the audience at movies, plays, dance performances, operas etc.

I have had a good first week and I look forward to the months and years ahead as Central Library Manager.

Joan