Introduction

I am pleased to present to you the National Library’s Annual Review for 2022-2023. As we reflect on our accomplishments and progress, we are filled with pride and gratitude for the dedicated team and our valued supporters who have made these achievements possible.

In this annual review, you will discover the remarkable journey we have embarked on, the milestones we have reached, and the vision that propels us forward. Our commitment to preserving and sharing Wales’ cultural heritage remains unwavering, and this past year has seen us take significant strides towards achieving our goals.

We have continued to expand our digital collections, making Wales’ rich history and culture more accessible to an ever-growing global audience. Our partnerships with institutions such as the University of Wales Trinity Saint David have strengthened our impact and extended our reach, helping to illuminate the brilliance of Welsh contributions to the world.

I am particularly pleased that the dedication of our staff and partners has seen the establishment of the Wales Broadcast Archive. The archive will be a valuable resource for the preservation of Wales’ cultural heritage, history and media content. It will serve educational, research, cultural and historical purposes and will play a vital role in promoting understanding and appreciation of Welsh culture and society. The newly developed innovative Wales Broadcast Archive Centre at the National Library and the 'clip corners' around Wales will allow members of the public and communities free access to invaluable archival material. We are grateful to BBC Wales, S4C, ITV Cymru, the National Lottery Heritage Fund and the Welsh Government for their support and co-operation in establishing this new service for the people of Wales.

Another new and exciting partnership established is the one between the National Library and the Smithsonian in Washington, which has led to the return of the 1924 Welsh Women's Peace Petition to Wales. The Peace Petition was a significant event in Welsh history and is a historically important example of women’s participation in peace campaigns and their efforts to prevent future conflicts in the aftermath of the First World War. Nearly 400,000 Welsh women signed the petition and while it did not lead to immediate policy changes, it contributed to the wider peace movement and raised awareness about the importance of peace and disarmament. The petition is now being digitised and will be the focus of our main crowdsourcing project during 2023/2024.

We have also welcomed the opportunity to work closely with the Welsh Government and our partners at the Welsh Arts Council and Amgueddfa Cymru in developing a National Contemporary Art Gallery for Wales. This is a truly exciting development as it will provide an excellent platform for our artists to showcase their great works, promote creativity and gain economic, educational and social benefits, whilst contributing to both the wider art world and the discourse.

Furthermore, our commitment to education and community engagement is at the heart of our mission. We have reached out to learners of all ages, providing resources and support for the curious minds who seek knowledge and inspiration. Our exhibitions, events, and outreach programs have sparked a deeper appreciation for the cultural tapestry that makes Wales unique.

In this annual review, you will see evidence of our progress, including the stories and achievements of the people who have been touched by the National Library of Wales. The pages are filled with the heart-warming narratives that reflect the profound impact our work has had on individuals, communities, and the nation as a whole.

As we look ahead, our commitment to our mission remains steadfast. We are driven by the belief that preserving and celebrating our cultural heritage is essential for the well-being of future generations. We envision a future where the National Library of Wales continues to be a beacon of knowledge, inspiration, and cultural pride.

Thank you for your ongoing support, dedication, and enthusiasm. The National Library of Wales would not be what it is today without you. We are excited about the journey that lies ahead, and we invite you to join us in shaping the future of Wales through the power of knowledge and culture.

Pedr ap Llwyd

Chief Executive and Librarian