Meet the candidates: Jane Cowell

Jane Cowell
Chief Executive Officer
Yarra Plenty Regional Library
AUSTRALIA

I can bring a broad career experience to the Standing Committee that encompasses 20 years working in Public Libraries, including over 10 years as a Public Library Manager, significant strategic planning skills honed through four years as a national Library Consultant working with Public Libraries, State Libraries and Archives in developing future directions, and 8 years working as an Executive Director State Library of Queensland which included responsibility for Public Libraries, Rural Libraries Queensland (a service for very small regional local government Councils) and the Indigenous Knowledge Centres in the remote corners of the State.

I have also played an integral part in the research and Public Library policy development delivered at the State Library of Queensland in collaboration with the public libraries in the State.  This included, The Library Dividend: A study of the socio-economic value of Queensland public libraries, The Impact of Libraries as Creative spaces, and The First Five Forever early literacy program and I bring an excellent understanding of current issues, future opportunities and advocacy skills for Public Libraries today.

I have also participated in the wider Australian library industry sector and have served as President of the Queensland Public Library Association, a Director on the Australian Library and Information Australia board, participated on a national conference committee and State based library industry programs and projects, such as mentoring new Librarians.

My passion and enthusiasm for the impact that public libraries can deliver for all their communities abounds and I will bring energy, commitment and future based thinking to the role.

For more information about voting for members of the Public Libraries Standing Committee take the time to read our post.