Mahi Tahi: Strengthening Our Profession Through Collaborative CPD

In the world of school libraries, we often talk about the power of connection—connecting students with the perfect book, teachers with the right resources, and our spaces with the wider school community. But just as vital is the connection we foster with each other as professionals. 
We are thrilled to highlight a significant piece of collaborative mahi that is now bearing fruit for our members: the LIANZA SLANZA Continuing Professional Development Membership. 

Why Collaborative Mahi Matters 
For a long time, SLANZA Te Puna Whare Mātauranga ā Kura | School Library Association of New Zealand Aotearoa and LIANZA Te Rau Herenga o Aotearoa | The Library and Information Association of New Zealand have shared a common goal: to uplift the library and information sector across Aotearoa. By working together rather than in silos, we’ve been able to create a pathway that specifically recognises the unique skills of school library kaimahi while aligning them with national professional standards. 
This partnership isn’t just about a shared subscription; it’s about acknowledging that school librarians are an integral part of the wider information landscape. It’s about building capability, credibility, and community. 

What This Means for You 
Through this collaboration, SLANZA members can now opt-in to the LIANZA CPD Pathway for a significantly reduced rate. This opens doors to several high-impact tools designed to help you grow:  

• Te Tōtara Workforce Capability Framework: Access to this interactive resource helps you map out your professional journey, ensuring your development is intentional and impactful. 

• A Digital CPD Logbook: Gone are the days of lost certificates! You can now maintain a permanent, transferable record of your learning—from webinars and workshops to regional hui and professional reading. 

• Professional Recognition: This pathway leads to formal recognition, with new 12-month and 36-month certificates and accreditation towards the new CertLIANZA, these options sit alongside RLIANZA professional registration. This provides independent evidence of your expertise to your school leadership and the wider sector. 

• A National Network: You aren’t just a member of your school; you are part of a vibrant, nationwide community of information professionals sharing insights on everything from AI in practice to literacy advocacy. 

As our SLANZA President, Trena Lile, recently noted: “This is a great opportunity to show your commitment to your mahi. These resources have been developed for Aotearoa's library and information sector with you in mind. They include access to recognition pathways and professional development events endorsed by the SLANZA National Executive.” 

How to Get Involved 
If you are a current SLANZA member, you can add this CPD membership for just $70 per annum. It’s an investment in yourself and a way to ensure that the incredible work you do in your school library is recognised at a national level. 

Ready to take the next step? 
Check out the full details on the LIANZA SLANZA CPD Membership page and start your journey today. 
Let’s continue to learn, grow, and advocate together. 
Nā tō rourou, nā taku rourou, ka ora ai te iwi | With your food basket and my food basket, the people will thrive.