Elizabeth Jones

Elizabeth has a long career in libraries and education, most recently as the Director of Literacy and Learning at the National Library of New Zealand Te Puna Mātauranga o Aotearoa, with responsibility for nationwide services for school communities and fostering cross-sector partnerships to strengthen access to library services and improve literacy and learning outcomes.

For many years she has been a passionate advocate for the importance of reading and its positive impact on the wellbeing of children and young people and has played a key role in building the research, insights and support for reading for pleasure and reading communities in New Zealand. She was instrumental in establishing the new role of New Zealand Te Awhi Rito Reading Ambassador and chairs the Partner Group.

In 2024, she received the Margaret Mahy Medal for lifetime achievement and significant contribution to literacy and children’s and young adult literature. She also played a central role in establishing SLANZA (School Library Association of New Zealand Aotearoa) and is an honorary life member. Elizabeth recently received a Fellowship from LIANZA (Library Association of New Zealand Aotearoa) and is an elected member of the Literacy and Reading standing committee of IFLA (International Federation of Libraries).