The uncertain future of the Alexander Turnbull Library is being drawn to public attention in a campaign launched by The
Friends of the Turnbull Library today – the 131st anniversary of the birth of the library’s founder, Alexander Horsburgh
Turnbull.
Symbolised by a black lapel ribbon, the campaign seeks to raise awareness about the implications of the National
Library’s strategic plan, and halt its implementation as it applies to the Turnbull Library.
“As its official advocates, we are gravely concerned about the Turnbull’s future direction should the proposed
restructuring be implemented,” said Rachel Underwood, President of The Friends of the Turnbull Library.
“We urge other concerned New Zealanders to wear a black ribbon on their clothing, to demonstrate their concern for and
support of the Turnbull.”
Mrs Underwood says The Friends’ main concerns about the strategic plan are that:
The plan is primarily a cost-cutting exercise to cover depreciation and computer system costs
The proposed restructuring effectively subsumes the Turnbull into the National Library
The Turnbull Library is to be run by a manager rather than a librarian
The plan requires the Turnbull Library to digitise vast amounts of heritage material – both unnecessary and a great
expense to the taxpayer
Meaningful dialogue about the plan has not occurred.
“In short, the restructuring attempts to transform the Turnbull into something quite different from its original and
current purpose as a heritage and research library,” says Mrs Underwood.
Campaigners argue that the restructuring will erode public confidence in the Turnbull, dissuading potential donors and
benefactors from making contributions, thereby weakening the Turnbull’s place as a leading repository of New Zealand’s
heritage.
The Friends are concerned that some aspects of the restructuring may not be legal, and are currently seeking legal
counsel.
“While we have serious concerns about the strategic plan in its entirety, we are, in the first instance, calling for a
halt to the implementation of the strategic plan as it applies to the Turnbull Library,” said Mrs Underwood.
“If enough people protest the plan’s changes, there is still time to stop them being implemented.”
ends