National Library staff learn their fate

PSA press release 19 August

National Library staff learn their fate

National Library staff will learn of their working future - or fate - when job losses resulting from the library's 'strategic management plan' are detailed to them this afternoon.

The staff briefing comes months after the announcement of the library restructuring aimed at 'saving' $1.9 million a year.

Staff since then have been in an 'employment twilight zone' with real uncertainty about their future and concern at the systematic downgrading of the library's services, particularly its general collection, PSA organiser Mike Chambers said.

"The staff will view today's management presentation with mixed emotions," he said.

"There is some relief that finally they will get to know what the future holds for them but equally there is the inherent fear they will be among those ruled to have no future here.

"This protracted business and the delays have done nothing for staff morale," he said.

A Library visit by Education Minister, Dr Nick Smith - his first since receiving the portfolio - to launch the new computer system is 'further proof of just where the priorities of this Government lie.'

Immediately after Dr Smith leaves the building staff will be told which services will be cut and which jobs will be lost.

"It is a shame Dr Smith cannot find the extra time to meet the staff and hear their concerns and views on all this," Chambers said.

Next month the Library portfolio will move to the Minister for Culture and Heritage, Hon Marie Hasler.

"What she will be getting is a organisation on the back foot and stripped of many of its skilled librarians," Chambers said.

ENDS

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