SUE FARGHER RETIRES FROM CENTRAL HAWKES BAY

Library Services Manager Sue Fargher began working for Central Hawke’s Bay District Libraries 28 years ago, retiring recently at an event attended by many, from far and wide. Over the years she has seen the introduction of computer systems and online subscriptions, the creation of children’s summer reading programmes, and most recently, the opening of The Knowledge and Learning Hub - Te Huinga Wai in Waipukurau. Under Sue’s management Central Hawke’s Bay Libraries have always punched well above their weight.

Sue began her library career at Hastings Public Library between 1971 and 1974, starting at Waipawa Library in 1994. Central Hawke’s Bay District Council Chief Executive Doug Tate said it was an amazing feat to have dedicated 28 years to a role that has formed such an important thread in the fabric of their community. “Sue has been such an integral part of creating libraries of the future here - a taste of what we have started here together in Central Hawke’s Bay. Far more than books, libraries are the critical connection for so many services and people,” Doug said at Sue’s retirement.

Sue received a LIANZA Fellowship in 2019, parts of which were read out to the audience at the event. Andy Fenton reported that for someone who initially didn’t have a lot to say, Sue took the opportunity to acknowledge the people and events that made a difference during her library career. Andy Fenton, New Zealand Micrographics chair attended the event and commented, "We heard that over the years Sue's special gift was delivering new services, programmes and lots of author events. She also looked out for those that needed looking out for and made sure the big organisations in her sector understood the needs of the smaller ones."

Rachel Esson, Te Pouhuaki, had this comment to make about Sue, “Sue has been a hugely positive contributor and supporter of libraries across the sector. She is known as someone who understands the needs of her community and proactively works to ensure that libraries support and enhance the wellbeing of those communities. She has been a generous supporter of the sector and demonstrated the huge impact libraries have for their communities. We wish her well and thank her for all she has done for libraries.”

Hawkes Bay App | News Retirement marks end of an era for Central Hawke’s Bay District Libraries (hbapp.co.nz)