SLIC appoints incoming chair

The Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC) has appointed Martina McChrystal as its incoming chair following a competitive recruitment process.

Martina, currently director of library services at the University of Glasgow and chair of SCURL, will take up the role in November 2026. 

An existing member of the SLIC board, she brings extensive leadership and governance experience from across the library and information sector.

She will succeed Alan Clarke at the end of his three-year term and will work alongside him during the coming months to support a smooth transition.

Martina said: “Libraries are central to Scotland’s educational, cultural and civic infrastructure, but the sector is operating in an increasingly complex environment. 

“Beyond Adequate highlights both the scale of opportunity and the urgency for a clearer, more equitable vision for library services.

“SLIC has a critical role in ensuring libraries remain visible, connected and influential at national level. 

“I look forward to working with the board, the SLIC team and partners across the sector to build on that momentum and help secure a sustainable future for Scotland’s libraries.”

Alan added: “Over the past three years, SLIC has strengthened its national role, expanded its partnerships and delivered practical programmes that support library services across Scotland. 

“It has been a privilege to serve as chair of SLIC during this period, and I am delighted to see Martina appointed as my successor. 

“Her experience, insight and passion for libraries make her an outstanding choice to lead the board. 

“With an understanding of both the strategic challenges facing libraries and the importance of strong national advocacy and partnership working, I know she will provide strong and thoughtful leadership as SLIC continues to support and advocate for Scotland’s library and information sector. 

“I wish her every success when she takes up the role in November 2026."

Martina’s appointment comes at a significant time for the sector following the publication of Public Libraries: Beyond Adequate, a national report commissioned by SLIC that calls for a new Universal Library Offer across Scotland. 

Martina is expected to play a key role in advancing the organisation’s work around equitable access to services, digital inclusion, literacy and community wellbeing.

Alison Nolan, chief executive of SLIC, added: “Martina brings an exceptional combination of strategic leadership, governance expertise and deep sector knowledge. 

“Her commitment to collaboration, advocacy and innovation reflects the values at the heart of SLIC, and we are delighted that she will be joining us as chair. 

“Libraries continue to respond to financial pressures, changing public needs and rapid technological change. 

“The publication of Beyond Adequate sets out a clear case for a stronger national framework for public libraries in Scotland, and Martina’s leadership, policy insight and sector credibility will be important as SLIC works with partners and government to take that agenda forward. 

“I look forward to working closely with Martina as we continue to champion the vital role libraries play in Scotland’s communities, education system, economy and cultural life."

Want your business, product or service to be seen regionally and nationally? Bdaily helps you get your story in front of the right audience, every day. Find out how Bdaily can help →

Join more than 55,000 subscribers by signing up to our daily bulletin each morning here.