Free books: what’s not to like?

Wonderful, amazing – miharo!

That’s the message from Louise Dowdell as she introduces herself as local library services manager _ noting that libraries are free, and a trusted source in this disinformation age.

“Tēnā tātou katoa. My name is Louise Dowdell (Ngāti Maniapoto) and I am very excited to be

the new Wairarapa Library Service manager leading the amazing and dedicated librarians who work at our Greytown, Martinborough, Featherston, and Carterton libraries. 

“Since starting this role in February I have found Wairarapa communities to be very welcoming and

I am enjoying getting to know this beautiful region and its people.

“I have over 20 years experience in a variety of libraries and have also worked in central government. 

“In 2018 I completed a Master of Information Studies and most recently worked for Wellington City Libraries. I love reading, people, and being a life-long learner, so libraries are the perfect place for me, especially as they are no longer stuffy, silent spaces. 

“I enjoy hearing the gentle hum of a busy library!

“I am passionate about the benefit libraries bring to our communities, especially equitable access to information and resources. Everyone can visit their local library to use and borrow physical resources, access computers and wifi, attend programmes and events, or just enjoy being in an inclusive space. 

“Your local library is there for you whether you are a parent and baby, a retiree, homeless, a student, or working remotely. And if you can’t make it into the physical library, (then) websites, apps, and online resources can connect you to virtual platforms including audio and ebooks. We truly have something for everyone!

“In a climate of disinformation our libraries can also point you in the direction of trusted sources, and as the cost of living rises it is good to remember that you can always access books for free with your library card. Mīharo! What’s not to love about libraries? Visit your local Wairarapa library today!”

So, welcome Louise.

Caption: New Wairarapa Library Services manager for Carterton and the South Wairarapa, Louise Dowdell.

EVENTS

The Great Gladstone Plant Fair 

A celebration of autumn gardening.

Rain or shine: Saturday 13 April, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Tickets: $35 + booking fees from iTicket and iSites. 

Ticket provides entry to four gardens.

Plants for sale. … Continue Reading

How Well Do We Know People in Our Community?

Susan Stephen

Definitely a Wairarapa girl, Susan’s childhood began in Pirinoa, before attending St Matthews College in Masterton, as a boarder. 

“Boarding was a totally different experience then. You didn’t go home for the weekends. In fact, we were only allowed to go home every third weekend.

After leaving school I worked at the Housing Corporation as a cadet draughtsman and completed a Certificate in Town Planning at Wellington Polytech.

Married and returning to Pirinoa, I became involved in the community – Playcentre, the Tennis and Rugby Club. I became a Councillor on the Featherston County Council prior to the amalgamation with the South Wairarapa District Council. I loved it. It was so positive.  … Continue Reading

Clear Autumn Book Review

Take Two by Danielle Hawkins

By Brenda Channer – Martinborough Bookshop

Reading is many things – from the deadly serious and cerebral to the uplifting and unifying.

Sometimes though, it is just a bit of fun! Recently while away for a short break I took the opportunity to read a whole stack of books and just before I returned home, I picked up an advance copy of “Take Two.” 

Not my kind of cover (be honest, we all judge books by their covers – even booksellers), not my kind of genre but I had just had a bellyful of my usual fare, so I thought, why not? … Continue Reading