A changing of the guard is under way at Te Tāhuhu o Te Rangi – Ōpōtiki Library and Information Centre as long-serving manager Julia Burrup Magee prepares to swap bookshelves for toolbelts in a bold career change that will see her begin an electrical apprenticeship.

After 11-and-a-half years at the library, including four-and-a-half years as manager, Burrup Magee is stepping away from the role she says has become as much about people and community as it is about books.

“Behind the scenes at the library is crazy. I am not sure if I have the energy to do this till I retire, but the job is more about people than books and the democratisation of knowledge so that it can be shared with everyone,” Burrup Magee said.

“I know Joelle will continue that kaupapa. She is a superb choice for networking, which is so important to the role.”

Burrup Magee will hand the reins over to current second-in-charge Joelle Campbell, a familiar face to many in the district through her previous work with ANZ and Ōpōtiki College.

Campbell has spent the past three years working her way through the library system, beginning as an assistant before stepping into the 2IC role under Burrup Magee’s mentorship. Alongside the job, she is also studying part-time towards a degree in Library Systems and Information Science.

“Even after three years every day is a learning day at the library,” Campbell said.

“I started as an assistant then moved up to 2IC under Jules. I am undertaking my degree in Library Systems and Information Science part time while on the job - I hope to have it completed in the next five years.”

The modern library building itself has become a significant community hub since opening in 2021. Named Te Tahuhu o Te Rangi, the purpose-built facility replaced the town’s ageing library and was designed as a multi-use learning and community space, blending traditional library services with modern digital technology and community programmes.

Campbell said that wider role was what made the library such a special place to work.

“I am very much a people’s person which is so important as the books connect to the people,” she said.

“The library is not just about books though, we have the makers space which has 3D printing, engraving, vinyl printing and cutting, clothing decals and a badge maker. We also run after school activities and a good school holiday programme.”

For Burrup Magee, leaving the library is bittersweet, but she says she is excited by the challenge ahead.

“I have already completed the pre-trade training and am looking forward to getting stuck in. I really wanted a trade where I would be using my hands,” she said.

“Despite being a late starter I know if we are dedicated, curious and bold enough to jump we can do anything.”

She said the most difficult part of moving on will be leaving behind a community and workplace she deeply cared about.

“The hardest part about leaving is I love this library and the community so much and although this is a new start for me I don’t see my age as a disadvantage as long as I can commit and lead,” Burrup Magee said.

“Either way Joelle has a passion for the job and community and is a hard grafter, so the library is in good hands.”

Burrup Magee also paid tribute to former manager Jo Hunt, acknowledging the role she played in shaping the library’s culture long before the opening of the new facility.

“She made this library such a cool space even before the new building,” Burrup Magee said.

The Ōpōtiki Library was first established in 1890 and has had generations of staff and kaitiaki woven into the history of the town. As one manager departs for a new adventure and another step forward, that long story of community connection appears set to continue.