By Di Stodart, typical tomboy turns teens librarian.
My library life started in 1981 at Whangarei Public when on returning from overseas there were no teaching positions. I tried all sorts of jobs like selling water beds (they were HOT in the 8Os!) and insurance. I was saved by the children’s and teens advertisement in the local paper and with my teaching background I felt I could fit. This, despite not ever being the library sort of student; only entering the library during wet lunchtimes or reading only what I had to read for school. I was very excited about the role, wore my stylish dress I’d brought back from Harrods, interviewed well (obviously!), got the job over qualified applicants (that’s changed!!!). I started my job and training simultaneously and LOVED every minute of it. “You’re a librarian now?!” You’ve got to be kidding!
