Library commemorates life of Sir Edmund Hillary

Christchurch City Libraries has created an information page about Sir Edmund Hillary in response to the many enquiries they have received since his passing was announced.

Don't miss Paul Brunton's TV appearance!

Paul Brunton of the State Library of NSW appears in the first Australian episode of the exciting new genealogy detective series Who Do You Think You Are? Tune in to SBS Television this Sunday night (13/01) at 7:30pm. The premiere follows actor Jack Thompson as he unearths more than a couple of surprises from his past and features Paul Brunton, unveiling some of Jack's family secrets held at the State Library.

Wilma Radford honoured

Well renowned figure in the library world, the late Wilma Radford, was remembered at a function for donors to the Wilma Radford Memorial Fund. A book of 19th century handcoloured lithographs entitled Modern Architecture (c. 1850) was acquired for the State Library of New South Wales Rare Books Collection as a memorial to Radford who worked at the library for nearly 30 years.

Vale ~ Tony Mays

Tony Mays, well-known to many for his work as a founding member of the National Library of Australia's Systems Development Section, as well as for his role as Deputy Librarian at the University of Newcastle, has died after a long illness. Colleague Kerry Webb recalls that "Tony loved a discussion -- never an argument, but always a spirited logical exchange of ideas. His clarity of thought stimulated debate, often on the theme of injustice suffered by those having difficulty changing their circumstances. " Kerry's tribute to Tony appears on page 41 in the December 2007 issue of inCite (vol 28, issue 12).

Vale ~ Andrea Stretton

Andrea Stretton, arts journalist and devotee of (Australian) literature, has died at the age of 55. Andrea and her mother Dulcie were great supporters of children's literature and reading, and of the CBCA. Both are honoured, and missed.

Vale Harold Weir

"Harold Weir, Parliamentary Librarian from 1978 to 1982 and distinguished staff member prior to his appointment, passed away in late August. He made a very considerable contribution to the establishment of the library's research services, particularly the establishment of high-quality service and was instrumental in much of the early automation, including the implementation of word processing, connection to external databases and development of staff skills. His contribution lives on through the successful Bills digest service, the research service itself and the use of new information technologies."' inCite, November 2007, volume 28, issue 11, page 41

Vale ~ Barbara Abbott 1943-2007

"Barbara Abbott, a respected ALIA member for almost forty years, died tragically in a road accident in Tasmania in April. Barbara was a committed reference librarian who is remembered by colleagues as an approachable, friendly person who would always go out of her way to help others..." Incite, October 2007 Vol 28, Issue 10