Hawke's Bay engagement : Pacific peoples and libraries

Abstract

This is a study of five Pacific families, and their experiences with Hawke's Bay libraries, and knowledge. With a focus on participation levels the research examines the experiences of sixteen first, second, and third generation Cook Island and Tokelau individuals residing in the Hawke's Bay. A review of literature revealed a number of initiatives raising Pasifika participation levels, such as learning centres in libraries, and the youth library, "Tupu", which is located in Otara, Auckland, and is designed to inspire Pacific and minority groups. The decision to work within a Pacific paradigm was guided by ethnicity and what that meant for this research. My being a Pacific woman working within a Pacific paradigm enabled this study to move forward fully supported by the Cook Island community. Testing the interview questions with a pilot study was invaluable, and resulted in fuller, richer data. The findings revealed that books were the first item that participants associated with libraries. Yet, the majority of participants placed audiovisual items at the top of their "materials most like to view" list. Communication needs was another finding; there was uncertainty regarding what library services and facilities were available. There was also a need to know what the benefits were to Pacific people in engaging with libraries. There was a need to see more of Pasifika culture in libraries, including Pasifika language, and concern was raised around customer services issues that were related to culture and values. There was a suggestion to create a position of a salesperson/promotion librarian who is culturally aware. Finally, there was a need to connect libraries with Pacific communities, and Pacific communities with libraries.