Search for a new chairperson for the new library authority

The search is on for a Chairperson of the new Library Authority which comes into operation on 1 April 2009.

Following final passage in the Assembly of the Libraries Bill last month, the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure is now moving to the appointment of the Library Authority Board and the first appointment is that of the Chairperson of the Board. The position is being advertised this week.

Culture Minister, Gregory Campbell, said: “We are entering a new era for public libraries with this unique and innovative model for the delivery of the library service.  The Chairperson of the Library Authority Board will be in a key position to develop the library service and ensure the success of this important new body.  I hope that there is a high level of interest from those with the relevant experience and skills.”

The next recruitment, to follow later in the summer, will be to fill all other posts on the Board of the Library Authority, which will include members drawn from both the general population and from elected members of District Councils. The Board will bring together people with a range of skills and expertise with the single goal of improving front-line library provision.  

The legislation which was passed in the Assembly last month establishes the Library Authority, and, from 1 April next year, transfers to it the responsibility for delivering and managing a unified library service for all Northern Ireland.  

Notes to Editors:

The decision to unify the library service across Northern Ireland and establish a separate body to manage and deliver the service was taken by the Executive in June 2007, following the Review of Public Administration.

The Libraries Bill creates a non-departmental public body to deliver the library service which will be answerable to the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure.  It will be governed by a Board consisting of a chairperson and up to 18 other members.

The Chief Executive (designate) was appointed in August 2007 and is working with a small team to establish the corporate and operational arrangements.  Full responsibility for the public library service will transfer from the Education and Library Boards to the Library Authority on 1 April 2009.

Media enquiries to DCAL Press Office on 028 90 258902 or email: press.office@dcalni.gov.uk.  Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.