New leadership for the State Library of NSW’s next chapter

The NSW Government has today announced the appointment of Dr Caroline Butler-Bowdon as the new State Librarian. 

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, 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 will commence in the role on Wednesday 15 November 2023. 

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