Media release: Thursday 15 October 2009

Aotearoa People’s Network Kaharoa wins 3M Award for Innovation in Libraries

Aotearoa People’s Network Kaharoa (APNK) was this week awarded the 2009 3M Award for Innovation in Libraries, administered by the Library and Information Association of New Zealand Aotearoa (LIANZA).

The 3M Award, established in 1996, promotes excellence and innovation in library and information services and is made to the librarian, information specialist or team who has applied an innovative and entrepreneurial approach to their business.

Margaret Garland, Manager of Aotearoa People's Network Kaharoa and Glenn Webster, Marlborough District Libraries Manager accepted the trophy and cheque for $4,000 on behalf of partner libraries at a special ceremony during the 2009 LIANZA Conference in Christchurch on 12 October 2009, attended by 660 members of the New Zealand library and information profession.

The Aotearoa People's Network Kaharoa, as part of the National Library of New Zealand and in partnership with New Zealand Public Libraries, was established in 2007 from government digital initiative funding to deliver free digital services to all New Zealanders through their libraries and on some Marae (Māori community meeting places).

PCs, monitors, webcams, headsets, wifi hotspots and scanners for digitising local content are provided to libraries, along with access to a kete (digital repository), hosted by APNK and fast internet connections. The service is safe and secure with content filtering, virus protection and other safety measures.

Ms Garland said “The aim of APNK is to ensure there is free, fast, facilitated access to the internet and digital tools and services in every Public Library in New Zealand, enabling all citizens to have access to the digital world in a safe and facilitated public space.”

“There are currently 119 APNK partner libraries across the country from Kaeo in the north to Stewart Island in the south and we are extremely proud to receive this prestigious award on their behalf”.

“We look forward to further developing our network and thank 3M and LIANZA for their support of this great initiative” Ms Garland said.

For information about Aotearoa People’s Network Kaharoa please visit http://www.aotearoapeoplesnetwork.org/

ENDS

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