State Library Victoria has announced that Paul Duldig has been named as its next Chief Executive Officer, effective 15 August 2022. As CEO, Duldig will be responsible for the overall leadership and delivery of the Library’s strategy.
President of the Library Board of Victoria, Christine Christian AO said the Library carried out an extensive global search for the new CEO, before finding the best person for the job.
“I am excited to welcome and work with Paul, who will be an exceptional leader for State Library Victoria,” she said. “I am inspired by Paul’s commitment to and enthusiasm for the Library’s mission and I believe his genuine regard for our Library will shape his approach in delivering high-impact services to Victorians.
“We are thrilled to have Paul as our next leader and know the Library will benefit enormously from the significant experience Paul brings from other vital education and arts institutions, as well as his deep commitment to the digital information environment.”
“As the State Library embarks on an exciting new chapter, Paul, our Board, and our dedicated staff are committed to furthering our purpose of using the power of libraries to best serve and engage our state’s diverse communities,” said Christian.
A highly experienced senior executive, Duldig has led large transformation projects in the university sector, is a Director on a number of boards and has a lifelong passion for the arts.
As Chief Operating Officer at the Australian National University (ANU), Duldig was the architect of the Recovery Plan that saw ANU rebound strongly post pandemic in 2022. He led the stream of strategy development that has seen ANU renew its national purpose, while also developing the University’s ambitious digital and services master plan.
Having had executive responsibility for three major libraries over the last fifteen years, Duldig has overseen a number of creative innovations of libraries as critical enablers of knowledge sharing and learning. At State Library Victoria he will lead the ongoing digitisation of the Library’s collection and services, and activate the newly renovated public spaces for the benefit of all Victorians.
Incoming State Library Victoria CEO, Paul Duldig said it is a privilege to join one of Australia’s finest institutions and the custodian of Victoria’s social history. “The Library is the home of trusted knowledge, incredible stories, artefacts, photos, maps, books and art works, all housed in the most beautiful heritage setting,” he said.
“The Library was founded as a people’s university, and I am committed to making the Library accessible for all in a changing world. Knowledge is the key to civil society, community, and human potential.”
“I look forward to working with all of the Library’s audiences and its people, to share the rich potential of the Library’s collection and resources,” said Duldig.
Minister for Creative Industries, Danny Pearson welcomed Mr Duldig to the role. “State Library Victoria is an icon of our state and plays a special role for our community – providing access to knowledge, cultural experiences, lessons of our past and ideas for our future,” he said.
“I thank Sarah Slade for her significant contribution and I look forward to the new vision and leadership Paul will bring as the Library continues to serve and inspire the people of Victoria,” said Minister Pearson.
Paul Duldig will commence the CEO position on Monday 15 August, taking over from the Acting CEO Sarah Slade. For more information about State Library Victoria, visit: www.slv.vic.gov.au for details.
Image: Paul Duldig – photo by Jarrod Barnes