Northamptonshire Library and Information Service acknowledge the strategic value of placing the reader and reading at the centre of the Service and in ensuring that the maintenance and development of all services, functions and resources are consistent with this holistic vision.

To support the delivery of this vision NLIS has implemented a comprehensive programme of training over a number of years, to ensure that all members of staff are familiar with the value of reading message, aware of the implications of the Reader Strategy and comfortable with the broader reader and reading context.  As a result Reader Development is seen as a shared responsibility throughout the organisation and is a significant element of generic job descriptions at several levels.

In June 2002 NLIS further reinforced its commitment to this work by appointing the new post of Principal Librarian Reader Development.

The principal accountabilities of the post are as follows:

• Advise the Service Management Team on the future planning of policies and the development of services.
• Review and improve service provision, identifying changing needs and barriers to access of communities.
• Direct and monitor the appropriate Team Librarians on the quality selection, acquisition, organisation and presentation of stock and resources.
• Develop and implement a reader-centred approach to service provision for adults and develop the strategy to plan, develop and monitor provision, working with outside organisations involved in the arts in all its forms.
• Improve links and develop partnerships with other Northamptonshire County Council services and develop initiatives with other organisations at local, regional and national levels.
• 
  Identify staff training and development needs, within the scope of the post, and assist in the design and implementation of any training that results.
• Initiate and develop the planning and provision of promotions and events in libraries.
• Work in conjunction with the Principal Librarian (Children and Young People) and (Information and Access) to ensure effective and seamless provision with regards to service development.
• Undertake as directed by the Principal Libraries and Information Officer (Service Development) specific of special investigation into any aspect of the library service with a view to securing a more effective and economical practice.

Post-holder is Linda Plowman who can be contacted for further information on 01604 236449 or e-mail [email protected].

We are grateful to Linda for providing the details of her post.