In Conversation: Vicki McDonald and Erik Boekesteijn on the changing role of public libraries
Throughout 2026, libraries serving the interests of the public achieved extraordinary impacts. These institutions supported access to reading, connected people to knowledge and provided services that address the big issues facing communities across the world.
These efforts – as well as the changing role and value of public libraries – were discussed by Vicki McDonald AM FALIA, Chief Executive Officer of State Library Victoria, and Erik Boekesteijn, Senior Advisor at the National Library of the Netherlands during a live online talk on 22 September 2026.
Hosted by State Library Victoria’s Director, Collections and Chief Librarian, Roxanne Missingham, it is now available to watch online.
Drawing on experiences in Australia and across the world, the conversation highlights how libraries are changing – connecting people with ideas, history and each other, building new capabilities for individuals and nations.
Whether you are a researcher, library professional, student or simply passionate about the role of libraries in public life, this is a unique opportunity to hear from internationally recognised leaders and reflect on the enduring importance of libraries.
About Vicki McDonald AM FALIA
Vicki McDonald joined State Library Victoria as Chief Executive Officer in September 2026. Vicki is a respected executive leader across the library sector, spanning state and local government and tertiary education.
Vicki spent 10 years as State Librarian and Chief Executive Officer of the State Library of Queensland. Under her leadership, the State Library of Queensland earned international and national recognition for its strong strategic direction, innovative service delivery and patron-centric focus.
Prior to this, Vicki was Executive Director, Library and Information Services at the State Library of New South Wales, managing the library’s internationally significant collections. She is an active and highly respected leader within the library and information profession, and has served as President of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) and President of the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA).
A passionate library advocate, Vicki was awarded a Member (AM) in the General Division of the Order of Australia in 2020 for her significant service to librarianship and professional associations.
About Erik Boekesteijn
Erik is Senior Advisor at the National Library at the Netherlands. He describes himself as a Library Avenger challenging boundaries and tirelessly promoting change in services to support the public. He is a facilitator and consultant for IFLA. He is the owner of Shanachie Media and producer of This Week in Libraries and ShanachieTours, a worldwide tour of searching for best practice in libraries.
Presenter, motivator, musician and author, Erik inspires many to bring new solutions to public engagement. He was Library Journal’s Mover and Shaker of the library world 2009 and Best Librarian in the Netherlands 2015.
