New leadership appointment for State Library of NSW

The NSW Government has appointed Dr Caroline Butler-Bowdon as the new State Librarian. Dr Butler-Bowdon will commence in the role on Wednesday 15th November 2023.

Dr Butler-Bowdon, a published author in architectural and urban history, brings with her over 20 years of leadership experience in large public institutions. Her career ranges from the museum and heritage space to most recently the activations in our streets, centres and open spaces.

Dr Butler-Bowdon has a consistent track record of supporting creative communities, building partnerships across government.

Dr Butler-Bowdon is currently Acting Deputy Secretary, Cities and Active Transport at Transport for NSW and has previously held leadership roles at the Historic Houses Trust of NSW, overseeing programs and initiatives for some of Australia’s most important museums and institutions including Hyde Park Barracks, Museum of Sydney, Rose Seidler House and Vaucluse House.

Dr Butler-Bowdon will take over from Dr John Vallance, who is retiring after six years at the helm of the State Library of NSW as State Librarian, and a distinguished career in the arts and academia.

The State Library of NSW is the oldest library in Australia, with more than six million items in its collection, and receives almost a million readers and visitors every year.

Dr Butler-Bowdon shared “Libraries, like parks, are at the very bedrock of the best democracies, global cities and states.

“I look forward to playing a part in the future of this wonderfully storied institution, championing the work of its loyal and creative staff, its globally significant collections, and its state-wide reach.

“The State Library of NSW is an important cornerstone in our community. Its location, its position, its deep and rich collections, its global reach coupled with its statewide brief fill me with genuine excitement.

“One of the keys to success will be balancing the focus on the physical library with the opportunities to work in western Sydney, and of course regionally through the Public Libraries network.

“Together we will ensure that every citizen has access to this great library and its public network across NSW, as places of experience, learning, research, connection and community.”

Dr Butler-Bowdon’s appointment means five of the six leaders of the state’s cultural institutions will be led by women.

NSW Minister for the Arts John Graham added “I want to thank Dr John Vallance for his contributions and the legacy he leaves behind.

“The State Library of NSW is one of our most beloved institutions and I’m thrilled to have Dr Caroline Butler-Bowdon bring her profound expertise and demonstrated excellence in cultural, creative and place leadership to this important institution.

“Caroline Butler-Bowdon has a passionate commitment to cultural leadership for the widest audience. I look forward to seeing the State Library of NSW continue to flourish under her drive to engage and inspire communities in the joys and power of ideas and culture.

“The State Library has undergone a significant transformation over the past decade, with accessibility improvements and a new multi-purpose space, making it a more inclusive place for people to enjoy the collections.

“I look forward to working with Dr Butler-Bowdon in making the State Library an even more welcoming and diverse institution for readers and visitors to experience.”