ALIA expert group on government publications

Terms of reference

Purpose

The Australian Library and Information Association recognises the essential importance of free access to government information from all levels of government for citizens and library users.

The Expert Group on Government Publications exists to:

1. Function as an expert group to provide advice and guidelines on government publications to the Board of Directors
2. Focus attention on Australian government publications and government information, at federal, state and local level. ALIA is concerned with the dissemination of government information; the publishing, distribution, and bibliographical control of and access to government publications, both paper based and electronic; and the continuation of the principle of free access to government information through libraries
3. 1. monitor developments with government publications and access to government information, in particular
      • the future of the Australian and State Parliamentary papers series;
      • developments in bibliographical control and the deposit scheme for the National, State and university libraries;
      • electronic publishing and preservation of Australian online government information
   2. lobby for change and improvement where necessary
   3. co-ordinate views from colleagues to respond to government policy proposals and represent ALIA on official inquiries into aspects of government publications publishing and information
   4. liaise with libraries, publishers, and with other professional groups and institutions where appropriate
   5. raise awareness of matters relating to government publications, hold forums for discussion and exchange of ideas on topics of interest and keep the library profession informed of its activities.

Membership

The group will comprise individuals with expertise in the area of government publications with the ability to co-opt members as required who may not be members of the parent organisation, for example government publisher representatives and other interested people. The group is national in focus. the group will elect a convenor and secretary from amongst its membership.

Terms of office

Members are nominated on the basis of expertise to represent a broad range of library issues. Members are appointed to the group on an ongoing basis and membership is reviewed by the group when required. The Board of Directors is advised about new appointments or resignations through the groups regular reports to the Board.

Communication

The group will meet as least twice per year in a face-to-face meeting. The minutes of the meetings are circulated to the members, the executive director of ALIA and other interested individuals.

One of the members of the group at Monash University Library maintains an e-list, oz-govpubs-l for anyone interested in government publications in Australian libraries. Details about subscribing to Oz-Govpubs-l.

The group shall report as required on matters referred by the Board of Directors. The group may refer matters of interest or concern to the Board of Directors for consideration.

September 2005