Former city librarian was ‘inspirational’

Anne Shipherd was an inspirational woman whose main career was as City Librarian for New Plymouth City Council, which later became the New Plymouth District Council.

She died at Mercy Hospital Auckland on February 16, aged 89 years.

Anne was the Founding President of Soroptimist International New Plymouth, which she chartered on 20 March 1965.

At a time when professional organisations for women were not numerous, Soroptimist International New Plymouth attracted women surgeons, doctors, teachers, accountants and businesswomen.

Her encouragement and support for higher education for girls was a lifelong commitment.

Through events such as ‘‘Bride of the Year’’, funds were donated to assist women recovering from surgery, furnishing a room in a rest home and supporting young mothers who needed extra care after childbirth.

She also gave active support for second chance education through a nationwide scholarship known as the Betty Loughhead Soroptimist Scholarship, awarded annually to women over 25 seeking tertiary education. Many Taranaki women have benefitted.

To mark the 50th Anniversary of Soroptimist International New Plymouth in 2015 Anne generously gave a one-off scholarship for a young woman starting her tertiary education.

Anne travelled widely as the local delegate for Soroptimist International New Plymouth, attending conferences in Istanbul, Perth and Hobart.

When Anne first became involved internationally the Federation to which NZ belonged only had three countries: New Zealand, Australia and Fiji.

By 2017 there were 13 countries involved including Mongolia, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and the Solomon Islands.

A recent local project in the city was the placement of a park seat on the Te Henui Walkway.

Anne felt this a positive way to mark 50 years of Soroptimist International. She was always encouraging, embraced new ideas was a wonderful mentor.

By Karen Eagles, publicity officer for Soroptimist International NP