Libraries Connected is pleased to announce the appointment of three new staff members: Andrew Allison, Becky Scott and Lauren O’Kill.

Andrew joins as Commercial Manager, Becky as Project Manager, Workforce Development and Skills and Lauren as Projects and Commercial Administrator. Taken as a whole, these appointments signal our determination to strengthen our voice in advocating for public libraries as well as preparing the sector for the needs and challenges posed by a rapidly changing economic environment. 

Andrew brings extensive experience in digital transformation consultancy, strategic planning, sales growth, and business development, with a focus on the transport, logistics, and supply sectors. His recent work includes leading the European Cycle Friendly Employer Certification in the UK and Ireland, which enables behavioural change and recognises the impact of organisational culture on reducing carbon emissions and improving workplace health. 

Andrew said:

"I am particularly excited about making libraries accessible and beneficial to all, recognising their crucial role in meeting the needs of diverse generations while supporting health, sustainability, and employment to boost economic productivity."

Becky has worked in different roles across school, health and academic libraries. She has experience in delivering small and large-scale library transformation, service delivery and partnership projects. In her most recent role, Becky was Information Manager for the School of Health and Social Work at the University of Hertfordshire where she led the implementation of a browser extension to improve access to e-collections. Becky was an AHRC-RLUK Professional Practice Fellow for 2023-24. Her research explored academic librarians’ experiences of undertaking practitioner research.

Becky said:

“I’m thrilled to join Libraries Connected as Project Manager for Workforce Development and Skills. It’s a privilege to help shape the future public library workforce and embark on meaningful projects that will cultivate our future leaders and foster the skills and capabilities of the sector. This role is all about empowering people and building dynamic networks; I really look forward to hearing about your libraries, your staff and volunteers, and your communities.”

Before joining Lauren worked in the volunteering and participation team English Heritage, providing national support for volunteer and volunteer leaders. In her new role she will be assisting in the implementation of workforce development strategies, including EDI (Equality, Diversity and Inclusion) initiatives for Libraries Connected and the library sector, and peer mentoring schemes for heads of library services.

Lauren said:

"I'm excited to be joining Libraries Connected as the Projects and Commercial Administrator and am really looking forward to learning more about this incredible sector and the people who are a part of it."

Libraries Connected Chief Executive Isobel Hunter MBE said:

"I am excited to welcome Andrew, Becky and Lauren to the Libraries Connected team. They join at a crucial point for library advocacy, with services across the UK coming under increasing pressure due to repeated cuts in local government funding. This significant addition of expertise will enable us to speak for public libraries to a broader audience, including the business and consulting world from which Andrew has arrived. It is also axiomatic that even within this difficult financial situation, libraries must continue to innovate and show their worth to government and other stakeholders. Becky and Lauren’s roles within our Projects team will be fundamental to this effort.”