The National Library of Wales’ new five-year strategic plan, which was launched this last week, aims to “unlock social and economic wealth for the people of Wales”.

Launched by Dawn Bowden MS, Deputy Minister for Arts and Sport, in an online event, the 2021-2026 Strategic Plan – A Library for Wales and the World sets out four strategic and well-being objectives.

The library, based in Aberystwyth, aims to foster and care for the nation’s memory, lay the foundation for a knowledge economy, be at the heart of national life and empower learning and research.

The Deputy Minister said: “I am delighted to see that the new strategic plan positions the national library as an aspirational, influential, positive and, most important of all, a relevant organisation.

“Being relevant to the day-to-day lives of the people of Wales is a great achievement and a privilege. I wish the team well as they move to adopt and implement the new vision while sharing and celebrating our nation’s memory with communities across Wales and the world.”

Ashok Ahir, the library’s interim president, said the library was opening a new chapter with a determination and desire to achieve even more.

“Our plan aims for a future where we will continue to use our unique range of skills and expertise to nurture and care for the nation’s memory, lay the foundation for a knowledge economy, empower research and learning, and be central to the life of the nation,” he added.

“Our new strategic plan will unlock social and economic wealth for the people of Wales by ensuring that all can benefit from our extensive collections and range of professional services and support.

“The National Library of Wales is keen to continue to play a central role as a library for Wales and the world, working with the Welsh Government and strategic partners to provide services that benefit the well-being of individuals and benefit communities across Wales.”

The library aims to contribute positively towards global well-being and will integrate the Wellbeing of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015 with its planning and delivery.

Pedr ap Llwyd, chief executive and librarian, said: “More than ever, Wales needs a dynamic and relevant national library, which promotes diversity and one that truly believes in the potential of knowledge and culture to transform lives.

“It is ready to play its part and fulfil its unique role in the nation’s recovery and renewal in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“We continue to develop, transforming our ways of working and sharing our experience and expertise with others as well as increasing opportunities to engage with our collections and services.

“We will be committed to being an open, progressive and innovative organisation. This is the only way we will create a library for Wales and the world.”