Library and Archives Canada: The next 10 years, post Covid-19

Abstract

The new Librarian and Archivist of Canada shares experiences of leading Library and Archives Canada (LAC) during a period of transition with the change in leadership and two major construction projects including a new net carbon zero preservation centre and a joint facility with the Ottawa Public Library. This transition leads to the establishment of the two strategic priorities of service transformation and digital optimisation and the launch of a visioning exercise for LAC in 2030. The vision anticipates new audiences in light of the partnership with the public library and the development of new services and highlights the importance of a virtual presence for national libraries. The transition is interrupted by the arrival of Covid-19 6 months into the process and the future of the national libraries and their role must be reimagined post Covid.