New Timaru District Libraries manager enjoys role

Thursday, 26 December 2024

Timaru District Libraries manager Michael Priest sorts through the shelves this week.

The head of Timaru’s libraries is excited about the increasing number of visitors and items borrowed, and says the library is an important part of any community.

Michael Priest became the Timaru District Libraries manager in August, filling the role left vacant after the death of former manager Adele Hewlett in 2023. Lynley Simmons was the acting libraries manager in between.

Priest moved from the United States of America to take up the role, which oversees Timaru, Temuka and Geraldine’s libraries, but grew up in Christchurch.

The opportunity to move back to Canterbury had drawn him to the role, he said.

“I’ve worked in libraries since 2010, working in the USA, but wanted to come back home,’’ Priest said.

Timaru’s District Library has had a busy year with 275,485 visitors.

“I know the area and it’s a perfect fit and a good transition.’’

He described the US library system as being “pretty similar’’ to New Zealand’s.

Key highlights at the three libraries from January 1 to November 30 had been visitor numbers of 275,485 which was the highest number since Covid-19, he said.

Timaru District Libraries manager Michael Priest says libraries are an important part of the community.

The number of items borrowed for the same period was 510,602, also the highest number since Covid, he said.

Priest put the increase of patronage down to the economic downturn, saying this was usually the trend.

“We like to think we’re the hub of the community,’’ he said.

“It’s an important part of the community.’’

He said libraries also provided important information and social aspects, as well as opening people up to an appreciation of literature and different worlds and perspectives.

“And it’s not just having a great collection, it’s also the programmes that the libraries provide.’’

From January 1 to November 30, 15,585 people attended 1376 programmes run by the libraries, including children’s story times and activities, digital device classes, book discussions, crafting groups, informational sessions and special events.

Library staff made 1461 housebound deliveries between July 1, 2023 and June 30, 2024, transporting items to the homes of individuals who have signed up for the service.

Priest said his love of books began as a child, with a penchant for history and fantasy.

Reading The Lord Of The Rings had unlocked a new world for him, he said.

He was excited about the library’s Sunsational Challenge which begins on January 6.

The challenge, a collaboration between the library, the South Canterbury Museum and the Aigantighe Art Gallery, was made up of 12 free activities children could take part in over the summer holidays over the district.