A Reading Ambassador: Being the spark

Being the spark, not the fuel

I’ve travelled the country, engaging with the diverse communities of Aotearoa and promoting the love of reading among young New Zealanders, schools, libraries, families and whānau, and communities. It’s such a rewarding experience, making me realise the importance of the impact of reading advocacy, and especially of the connections made, and the personal growth that has come with the role.

Touring New Zealand as a Reading Ambassador is an adventure in itself. The journey takes you to various regions, from bustling cities to serene rural areas. Each location offers unique experiences and opportunities to connect with different communities. Whether it’s the green rural splendour of Northland or the cold, crisp mornings of the South Island’s East Coast, I have seen so much of what makes this one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

Travelling companions

I have been accompanied by some of the outstanding people who stand with me in this adventure, from the incredible National Library facilitators and the authors and illustrators on Storylines Tours to the passionate teachers and advocates who host me in their slice of Aotearoa.

Whether a 6-student one-classroom school in rural Northland or the 700-strong crowd at Whangaparāoa College that turned into some sort of ‘What Book You Got?’ gameshow — I bounded up aisles, microphone in hand, trying vainly to see raised arms — every visit has been unique.

Sure, I hit the same beats in my presentation, tell a lot of the same stories and take great pride in talking about my reading journey. The difference comes when I ask, ‘What is it you like to read?’

Then we’re off.

Inspiring young readers

I speak of an empty library and that shelves must be full of books THEY want to read. They tell me what books deserve to be in their library, thereby feeling a sense of ownership and control, which some young people don’t experience in their lives. That is the power of a good library though, isn’t it? That the collection reflects the users. Oh, what paradises we librarians inhabit!

These visits are the bread and butter, the fuel and the fire of my role.

This is where connections are made, sparks are ignited (I hope), and students get to see someone passionately, gleefully, exuberantly promoting something that New Zealand has never really held up as a popular, ‘Kiwi-like’ endeavour — reading for enjoyment.

These visits are about fostering a culture of reading. Encouraging new and consistent reading habits, and crucially, creating reading role models. I have told thousands of children over this last year that if they don't see anyone reading regularly in their house, then they must be that person. Read in front of people in our home, laugh/shriek/gasp out loud, let them see you immersed in that world. Then leave the book behind … in full view … the trap is set.

Sharing experiences and making connections

I have come to realise that the role of a Reading Ambassador is not just about sharing, it’s also about personal growth. Travelling and meeting new people, hearing their stories and seeing the impact of your work first-hand is incredibly fulfilling. I have learnt as much from the communities and people I’ve met as they may have learnt from me. This is what the Te Awhi Rito role is all about. Shared experience and knowledge. This exchange fosters a deeper understanding of New Zealand’s diverse cultural landscape and the different ways reading can be integrated into daily life.

Like any role, being a Reading Ambassador comes with its challenges. Travelling frequently can be tiring and sometimes you’re a little unsure whether you’re hitting the mark as visits can be brief.

However, the rewards far outweigh the challenges. The gratitude from communities, the excitement of young readers and the knowledge that you are making a difference are powerful motivators. Each successful event, every hand raised and every child inspired to read are a testament to the importance of this role.

MY journey as Te Awhi Rito New Zealand Reading Ambassador has, so far, been one of inspiration, connection and profound impact. I can’t wait to see what’s next because there are so many children, schools, libraries, whānau and communities ready to read.

Reading Ambassador is the tinder, they are the fuel.