Open Access Te Herenga Waka-Victoria University of Wellington
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Searching for tupuna : whakapapa researchers and public libraries

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posted on 2021-11-13, 18:57 authored by Tamaira, Moata Nicola

Genealogists are frequent users of public libraries and other institutions that hold historical material. In recent years research has investigated the information needs of this group, the motivating factors behind their involvement in this hobby. Attempts have also been made to compile a "profile" of the typical genealogist. Research in this area has been done in response to the long association genealogists have had with libraries and in acknowledgement of the growing popularity of this pastime. Similar research methodologies as have been used overseas have been utilised in this piece of research with respect to genealogists in New Zealand, specifically those researching the family history of Maori, the indigenous people of that country. In traditional Maori culture great significance is placed on family history or whakapapa. This study aimed to investigate to what degree the use of public libraries by genealogists researching this cultural group reflected findings of library use and information seeking behaviour of genealogists in other cultural environments. Whakapapa research may be undertaken by genealogists who do not have Maori ancestors, or tupuna, themselves and these library users still fall within the scope of this study. Data was collected by using printed questionnaires distributed to public libraries in New Zealand, as well as a printable version of the questionnaire that was made available online .

History

Copyright Date

2007-01-01

Date of Award

2013-08-16

Publisher

Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington

Rights License

Author Retains Copyright

Degree Discipline

Library and Information Studies

Degree Grantor

Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington

Degree Level

Masters

Degree Name

Master of Library and Information Studies

Victoria University of Wellington Item Type

Masters Research Paper or Project

Language

en_NZ

Victoria University of Wellington School

School of Information Management

Advisors

Smith, Alastair