A living library for now, for the future, for all of us
As we continue our conversation about Australian cultural institutions then and now, we explore the role of the State Library of NSW in the 21st century.
What role does the State Library of NSW serve today, and how do libraries connect communities around NSW and beyond?
Dr Caroline Butler-Bowdon, State Librarian, will take some of the key topics of the Carnegie report – curatorial skill, research, cooperation, and partnerships – and weave them into the vision for the State Library of NSW, as it moves towards its 200th anniversary in 2026.
About the speaker
Dr Caroline Butler-Bowdon began in the role of State Librarian in November 2023. She is a published author and curator of architecture and urban history and has 20 years of executive leadership experience in public institutions, including the Historic Houses Trust and the Art Gallery of NSW. Her career has been dedicated to leadership that connects citizens and visitors to special places, culture and heritage through a broad range of statewide public engagement programs. Before starting at the Library, she was Deputy Secretary for Cities and Active Transport for NSW Government, where her work focused on major policy and a program of investment in NSW addressing the wellbeing, walkability and activation in our streets, and civic places. She led a Premier’s Priority, Greener Public Spaces from 2019-2023. She also serves on a range of committees and boards to promote the power of place, culture and community in Australia.