Libraries are fundamental pillars of a working democracy, as vital to its health and wellbeing as a free press, said the Governor-General, Sir Anand Satyanand, in his 2010 Founder Address to the Friends of the Turnbull at a special function marking the Turnbull Library’s 90th anniversary. The birthday celebration was held in the Grand Hall of Parliament Buildings on Wednesday 16 June.
In a thoughtful and informed review of the Turnbull’s role, Sir Annand noted that Alexander Turnbull did not quite know what lay ahead when he gifted his book collection as the nucleus of a New Zealand national collection, but he clearly had in mind that it should be a national institution available as a fundamental resource for research. The text of Sir Anand’s address may be seen on the Government House website.