The National Library of Greece is pleased to announce the publication of Presidential Decree 28/2026, establishing its new Governance and Operational Framework, which marks a significant institutional milestone.

The need for a comprehensive organisational framework became increasingly evident following the Library’s relocation to the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre in 2018, meeting a legislative requirement under Law 3149/2003, which transformed the National Library of Greece into a public legal entity supervised by the Ministry of Education, Religious Affairs and Sports.

The adoption of the new organisational structure provides the Library with a modern administrative model aligned with its expanded role as a national memory institution and a centre for knowledge, research and culture. As the institution continues to develop its services, collections and digital infrastructure, the new structure will strengthen its capacity for strategic planning, effective governance and public service delivery.

A key feature of the reform is the substantial reinforcement of the Library’s human resources, creating new opportunities for specialised expertise and supporting the long-term sustainability of the institution by providing 278 posts for specialized staff.

The new organisational model introduces six Directorates: a) Directorate of Collections Development and Organisation, b) Directorate of Collections Management and Preservation, c) Directorate of Information Technology, d) Directorate of Administrative Support, e) Directorate of Financial Services, f) Directorate of Research, Promotion and Library Networks. In addition, the framework establishes twenty-one departments, four independent departments, two offices and one independent office, creating a clearer distribution of responsibilities and a stronger operational structure.

As one of Greece’s oldest cultural institutions, the National Library of Greece safeguards the nation’s intellectual and documentary heritage while ensuring equitable access to knowledge. The new Governance and Operational Framework represents an important step towards enhancing the Library’s ability to fulfil its mission and contribute to the European and international library community.

The National Library of Greece looks forward to building on this foundation through continued collaboration with CENL members and partners across Europe.