Heather HEWLETT Obituary

On behalf of Te Rau Herenga o Aotearoa Library and Information Association of New Zealand Aotearoa (LIANZA) we send condolences to Adele's family and to all her staff.

Adele contributed much to the library sector and her community. In 2022 she received a LIANZA Award of Professional Excellence which are given to members who have shown excellence and innovation in their workplace. Adele was nominated for this award by her staff at Geraldine Library and Service Centre and the Temuka Library, Information and Service Centre.

This award acknowledged Adele´s creativity, innovation, and energy for change and community connection which her nominators described as inspiring. She was an early adopter of new innovations, and someone who connected with others and took them on the journey.

In her nomination her staff said "We believe Adele is an outstanding candidate for this award because
o She believes if you look after your staff they will look after their community
o She is always looking for ways to increase accessibility to all members of our community
o She is always looking for ways to raise the profile of the Timaru District Libraries within our community.
We need to start by saying that Adele hates the limelight. She is not a front of the room person. She will not promote herself. She only agreed to us nominating her for this award because we convinced her it would be a reflection of our amazing team and the services provided by the Timaru District Libraries."

We are so pleased that Adele was recognised for her contribution with this award. Our heartfelt sympathies to her family and to all her staff, who will be feeling her loss.

Ana Pickering, Executive Director, Te Rau Herenga o Aotearoa LIANZA

Adele believed in me when I didn't believe in myself and over 20 years ago set me on the path for working in the most beautiful environment - the children's section of the library. I still remember that she loved Six Dinner and Wombat Divine, and think of her each time I share them with children, even now! What a kind, generous and encouraging person she was.

On behalf of Public Libraries of New Zealand, representing Adele's many professional colleagues throughout the country, we send our deepest condolences to Adele's family for the sudden passing of such valued and respected colleague. Adele was a resourceful, creative and innovative library manager dedicated to her community and her staff. Her vibrant presence will be sorely missed by all who were fortunate to work with and be inspired by her.

Way too soon, Adele. I loved your wicked sense of humour and your no-nonsense approach. You were a firebrand for public libraries and had such an unwavering commitment to it´s service. You and your team have changed lives for the better and were/are leaders in your field. Much love to you now in library heaven and your family, Debbie

Deepest sympathy from the Queenstown Lakes Library team. Adele was the Central Otago Queenstown Lakes Libraries District Manager before she left for Timaru. Adele's open-door policy established an amazing and confident team who accomplished lots under her management - always encouraging and a can-do attitude. If something couldn't be done, she'd find a way. She has left a legacy of teamwork and accomplishment which continues through to our existing team's philosophy. Thankyou for all that you did Adele. We will miss you.

My deepest sympathy to all Adele's family. I have such fond memories of working with Adele both when she was at Queenstown and Timaru Libraries. She will be greatly missed by so many colleagues in the library world.

To John, Derek and family,
So sorry to hear of Adele's passing. She was always such an amazing friend, always supportive and I cherish all the memories I have from our long friendship. Condolences to you all. Love Tracy and the girls

I can't believe it, a dedicated lady to the library profession, so proud of her efforts. Such a wonderful passion for Timaru libraries, always spoke so highly of her colleagues there. Will miss our chats and your wicked sense of humour. In disbelief.

So sorry to hear this sad news, you were such a fun colleague and friend at Invercargill library and always loved catching up at library events. You made every library you worked for a better place

A very lovely person that will be sadly missed, especially by the library staff. RIP.

Way to soon..Adele..thank you for the morning chats..you were so down to earth and so easy to talk to..we have lost but heaven has gained..you touched me with your words and such logic..fly high lovely lady..your friend Vicki

Will remember you with fun and fond memories! Read lots of cool books up there and rest easy. Love you lots from Jimmy

A much loved and respected friend and colleague. It was an absolute privilege to work alongside side you and support your energy and brilliance. We will miss you so very much. Sharon Taylor