The Libraries Act (Northern Ireland) 2008 changes the way the public library service will be delivered. From 1 April next year responsibility for delivering and managing a unified library service for all Northern Ireland will transfer to the new Library Authority. The Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure is now seeking to appoint members of the Board of the Library Authority. The appointments are 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 Board will bring together people with a range of skills and expertise with the goal of improving front-line library provision and ensuring the success of this important new body. I hope that there is a high level of interest from members of the general public with the relevant experience and skills.”
There will be a separate recruitment exercise at a later date to fill a number of other posts on the Board of the Library Authority, to be drawn from elected members of District Councils.
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 Act (Northern Ireland) 2008 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 9025 8902 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.
