Guiding Principles and Indigenous Frameworks

The Indigenous Engagement branch works with Indigenous communities across NSW to increase awareness of the Library’s collections, and to make sure these materials are accessible. We also work with communities to help to preserve and manage their own heritage collections. 

This work is a priority area for the Library, and is guided by the following protocols and statements of best practice.  

• This position statement from National and State Libraries Australia (NSLA) sets out best practices for looking after Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander collections and services:

NSLA Position statement for libraries 

• The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Library, Information and Resource Network (ATSILIRN) developed these protocols for libraries, archives and information services:

ATSILIRN Protocols for libraries

•  The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples covers many areas, including freedom from discrimination, consultation rights and representation of cultures and traditions:

UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples 

• Recognition and protection of ICIP rights is supported by the National and State Libraries Australia (NSLA):

NSLA Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property (ICIP) 

•  These guidelines from National and State Libraries Australasia (NSLA) aim to help libraries build relationships and collaborate with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities:

NSLA Working with Community