No need to hush! MEET THE NEW LIBRARIANS

The trio says a change in perception of their profession is long overdue

- Kasia De Vydt-Jillings

Caitlin Macnay always wanted to be a librarian, but having not seen young librarians while growing up, she assumed it would have to be a role for retirement.

Now, walk through the doors of Auckland Council Libraries and it's hard to miss the growing presence of vibrant, young women who have chosen to pursue their passion for books and the community as a career.

Joined by colleagues Olivia Stanley and Grace Johnson - all in their twenties - the trio laughs, saying that the days of shushing and silent libraries are gone.

They share with the Weekly what inspired them into this line of work, what young people bring to modern libraries and how books have changed their lives.

Caitlin Маспау, 27, LIBRARIAN

What inspired you to become a librarian?

I wanted to be a librarian when I was a kid, but I never thought it was a career option for younger people. I became an archaeologist and ended up doing fieldwork in New Zealand. Then, after Covid, I had a massive injury and broke my back. I spent over a year in recovery and found myself gravitating towards libraries, which had always been a safe and happy space for me. Now I get to help create that same safe, welcoming space I had for others.

Libraries today serve so many purposes. What do you gravitate towards?

Digital literacy because of the larger role technology plays in our lives and also because technology develops so fast that I want to make sure no one gets left behind.

What are the most challenging aspects of your job?

I'm currently in more of a leadership/senior position and at times, I struggle with imposter syndrome.

Unfortunately, it's common for a lot of young people, especially women. I have a lot of support from family and co-workers. And I do a lot of faking it until you make it.

Were you an avid reader as a child?