Sir Kenneth Calman to lead National Library of Scotland board

The National Library of Scotland has announced the appointment of Professor Sir Kenneth Calman to lead its governing Board.

Sir Kenneth has had an 'outstanding career of public service' which saw him hold the position of Chief Medical Officer in both Scotland and England in the 1990s. He is Chancellor of the University of Glasgow, a former chairman of the National Trust for Scotland and led a review into Scottish devolution – the Calman Commission – which paved the way for greater powers for the Scottish parliament. 

He succeeds James Boyle, former Controller of BBC Radio 4, who is standing down as Chair having successfully steered the Library through a period which has seen the establishment of a new Board and the development of an ambitious strategy with a commitment to have a third of the Library’s collection in digital format by 2025. 

NEEDS OF THE FUTURE

Sir Kenneth said of his appointment: 'Libraries have to adapt and change to the challenges posed by the digital age. This is an exciting time to be joining the National Library of Scotland which, thanks to the work of James Boyle and his colleagues, is already well prepared to respond to the needs of the future. I am honoured to be appointed to this important role and look forward to helping the Library secure its place as one of the leading national libraries in Europe.'

For more on the National Library of Scotland, visit its website.