Auckland City Libraries Recognised for Outstanding Homework Programmes

Auckland City Libraries' Akozone Library Learning Clubs have been recognised in an article published in the 2009 edition of the American publication Encyclopedia of Library and Information Science.

Author Cindy Mediavilla explains that several types of after-school homework programmes have been developed and that they range from once-a-week drop-in sessions to elaborate services requiring parental approval.  She goes on to mention a number of homework programmes from around the world and lists those at Auckland City Libraries as an outstanding model.

"An educator facilitates the program and library staff have all undergone child behaviour training.  Strong communication between the library and local schools has contributed to the homework club's success."

Auckland City Libraries currently run five Akozone homework centres which are financially supported by the Ministry of Education.  The name Akozone is taken from the Maori and Polynesian word "ako", meaning "to teach and learn" and its motto is "We care, we share, we show respect."