Job Description

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Join the British Library Advisory Council
Mandated by the British Library Act 1972, the Advisory Council has no governance responsibilities but exists "to advise the British Library on any aspect of the development and operation of its services, and its relations with libraries, at home and overseas".
The Advisory Council normally meets three or four times a year, in March/April, July and October. However, in some years an additional meeting, workshop or event may be convened to reflect on key strategic issues. Meetings now take place both virtually, and in the British Library's St Pancras building in London, but there may be occasional visits to the British Library's facility in Boston Spa, Yorkshire.
The Library is committed to eliminating discrimination and advancing equality of opportunity in its appointments. We particularly encourage applicants from underrepresented groups and those who have achieved success through non-traditional educational routes.
We wish to add several more members, including a Chair, to the Council, and are interested in hearing from people with an interest in the British Library and an eagerness to contribute insights from their own expertise in relevant fields. We would especially welcome applications from people with any of the following experience or interests:

• First-hand knowledge of how technology is reshaping academic research and publication

• Regular use of the Library for research at post-graduate level

• The strategic challenges of commercial publishing in the digital age

• Management of museums and art galleries

• Digital entrepreneurship

• Supporting business start-ups and SMEs

Members of the Advisory Council are expected to possess:

• An appreciation of the challenges facing the British Library as it seeks to look after the nation's intellectual heritage, to deliver services for research, business, culture and learning, and to engage with diverse users, audiences and international partners

• A high commitment to the breadth of activities of the British Library and to its public service and entrepreneurial goals

• The ability and desire to provide advice and contribute ideas to the leadership team.

The appointment is for three years in the first instance and is unpaid save for travel expenses.
More about the British Library
As one of the world's great libraries, we make our intellectual heritage accessible to everyone, for research, inspiration and enjoyment. We have well over 150 million books, manuscripts, maps, newspapers, magazines, prints and drawings, music scores, and patents, in most known languages, with eight linear kilometres of new items added every year. In 2023, the British Library marked its 50th anniversary as the national library of the United Kingdom and, in , the Library has set out an ambitious vision for growth, innovation and development as that landmark date approaches.
To apply
To apply please email your CV and covering letter to
Applications close on 5 January 2026.

Skills Required