New scholarship in honour of Paul Reynolds

New scholarship in honour of Paul Reynolds – the ‘No Numpties Award’

Media release - 6 December 2010

http://tinyurl.com/2arjpxx

The National Library of New Zealand (NLNZ), Library and Information Association of New Zealand Aotearoa (LIANZA) and InternetNZ (Internet New Zealand Inc) are honouring the memory of internet pioneer and commentator Paul Reynolds with a scholarship for international study.

Paul Reynolds, who died suddenly this year at the age of 61, had an extensive public profile as an internet and media commentator. He made significant contributions to the government’s Digital Strategy and Digital Content Strategy and shortly before his death he completed his term as the adjunct director of the NLNZ’s National Digital Library.

“Paul loved libraries and museums and digital access to them was at the heart of how he thought and worked,” said Penny Carnaby, Chief Executive of the National Library.

“Paul saw access to our heritage as a basic human right but he also saw digital as capturing the pulse of the nation in the present. Paul was always a man on a mission and we are fortunate that his mission in life crossed into our world,” Penny Carnaby said.

“The term ‘numpty’ was a popular Scottish word that Paul was fond of using and reflected his playful but non-compromising approach to life. This scholarship is in memory of Paul Séamus Reynolds, inspirational, enthusiastic and a digital world citizen.”

The scholarship, to be awarded every two years over the next decade, is intended to be used to enhance the knowledge and development of those working in the New Zealand Galleries, Libraries, Archives, Museums (GLAM) sector. Applications will be called for in February 2011 for the first award.

The scholarship, worth a minimum of $5000, will enable the successful applicant to research or develop specialist digital knowledge or experience at an overseas institution and is restricted to those currently working in the digital space of the New Zealand GLAM sector. It will be administered by LIANZA on behalf of the wider sector.

“LIANZA is delighted to be associated with the Paul Reynolds Scholarship which is a significant opportunity for professional development in this area” said Carolyn Robertson, LIANZA President.

“Paul was one of New Zealand's most well known and respected technology commentators,” said InternetNZ Chief Executive Vikram Kumar.

"He spent many years exposing people to the wonders and potential of technology, and never failed to make the most complex things sound simple. The No Numpties scholarship is a fitting tribute to his memory, and InternetNZ is proud to be a supporter."

Friends of Paul Reynolds will have an opportunity to contribute to the fund.

More information can be found on the LIANZA website: http://www.lianza.org.nz/Paul_Reynolds_Scholarship

ENDS

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