Ministry Updates
On Tuesday, Jan. 28th the Ministry of Education introduced a new organizational structure that better aligns our human resources to our key priorities and the important transformations we are pursuing across the sector. The realignment is aimed at helping the sector pursue one overarching goal, which is to develop capable young people ready to thrive in a rapidly changing world. These priorities include: building a common vision; vigorously pursuing BC’s Education Plan and skills training for youth; building a strong culture of professional excellence; improving evidence based decision-making, performance and accountability; pursuing greater administrative and systems efficiencies; and aligning roles and responsibilities to put greater focus on student achievement and learning opportunities.
Change of any kind can be challenging for our staff and stakeholders and we thank you for your patience as we are navigating our way through the transition.
These recent re-organizational changes have resulted in the newly consolidated Libraries Branch. The Libraries Branch joins the Partner Relations Division, headed by Assistant Deputy Minister Paige MacFarlane. Beverley Shaw will continue to support the Libraries Branch as Acting Director.
As you know the job posting for the Director of the libraries branch was posted in October 2013. However, the competition was cancelled at the end of January due to our internal core review process. As this is taking place, we will continue to collaborate with our provincial partners to determine the best structure and approach to support public library services within our organization. We recognize the significance of this role in moving forward with library transformation across B.C. and we will keep you updated as this process unfolds.
The Library Branch has consolidated, with familiar faces. Mari Martin and Cindy Ralph continue in their roles as Library Consultants. Kyle Armour continues to oversee the data and statistical portfolio. Tara McCrone remains in support role in distribution, administration/user support, and interlibrary loans. Pam Gregg continues to support the branch and division on administrative support Bob Yuan has a different reporting relationship, but continues to support the work of the Libraries Branch.
Other members of our team (Tim, Allan, Kristin and Connie) have moved on to new roles within the Ministry but remain connected to the branch and will continue to collaborate with us from within their new areas.
The branch will continue to place a strong emphasis on supporting public libraries, but also looks to find commonality and shared connections with all types of libraries. We will continue to work with library partners to ensure a strong system across the province.
We are here and available for your questions. Feel free to connect with us via the Commons, phone or email. We look forward to reading your Provincial Library Grant Reports and seeing you for networking at the BC Library Conference in March.
Beverley Shaw [bev.shaw at gov.bc.ca]
Acting Director, Libraries Branch
Ministry of Education.