The National Library’s Strategic Leadership Group consists of the National Librarian of the National Library, the Chief Librarian of the Alexander Turnbull Library/Deputy National Librarian, and other senior staff members.
The National Library is currently undertaking a realignment, to position it to deliver on its New Generation National Library strategy. In 2007 the Library realigned the senior leadership level.
More about the New Generation National Library strategy
Bill Macnaught, National Librarian
Bill Macnaught came to the National Library in 2011 from Puke Ariki, a position held since 2005. Before coming to New Zealand, he was the Director, Libraries and Arts and later Head of Cultural Development at Gateshead Council in the north of England. He was awarded a CBE in the UK for services to public libraries and cultural life. He was Chair of the UK Advisory Council on Libraries and was a visiting Professor (Librarianship) at the University of Northumbria.
Bill Macnaught is a founder member of the Governance Group for the Aotearoa People’s Network Kaharoa programme which was inspired by a UK project in which he was involved. He initiated the discussions that led to the National Library supporting the current Kotui project, designed to deliver better value for public libraries through the collective procurement of library management IT services.
Chris Szekely, Chief Librarian of the Alexander Turnbull Library
Chris Szekely was appointed to the statutory position of Chief Librarian of the Alexander Turnbull Library in March 2007. Additionally, he has the role of Deputy National Librarian, with directorial responsibility for the National Library Gallery and the Visitor Centre.
With nearly 20 years' experience in the library and information sector, Chris was previously the City Librarian at Manukau City.
More about the Alexander Turnbull Library
Geraldine Howell, Director Young New Zealanders
Geraldine's career has been focused on the area of library services to education. Since joining the National Library as Manager Reference Services in Auckland, Geraldine has held a number of roles in the organisation, becoming Director School Services in 2000. Geraldine represents the Library on the Education Sector ICT Management Committee. She believes libraries have an important role to play in supporting the educational and social development of young New Zealanders.
Geraldine leads the School Services section of the Library.
Alison Elliott, Director Content Services
Alison has had a long career at the National Library, in a number of different positions focusing on services to libraries. As Director Content Services, one of her key roles has been the extension of legal deposit to electronic publications. As the director with responsibility for information strategy, Alison has overseen projects to develop the Library’s brand strategy and web presence strategy, and sponsored its web redevelopment project.
