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Witherick leaves Libraries Connected for ASCEL
Tabitha Witherick has been revealed as the new c.e.o. for ASCEL, the national network for senior leaders in children’s, public, and schools library services.
Witherick is an experienced charity executive and chartered librarian and will join ASCEL at the end of March 2024. Formerly regional development manager at Libraries Connected, and head of library service and customer experience at Libraries Unlimited, she has a background in leadership and delivering development projects and programmes.
ASCEL said that “this strategic appointment marks a pivotal moment as it embarks on its second year as an Arts Council England Investment Principles Support Organisation, promising an exciting new phase for the member-created body” and that it emphasises its "commitment to championing and advancing library services for children and young people".
The charity added: “Bringing visionary leadership and a wealth of experience in library services, Tabitha is ideally placed to work with the Trustees and executive team in driving forward ASCEL’s ambitious plans to evolve and enhance member services, peer support opportunities, training, and resources.”
She said: “I have huge respect for ASCEL’s achievements to date and I feel honoured to have this opportunity to work with the team, members and trustees to elevate the voices of young people and to take the charity into the exciting next phase of development.”
Annabel Gittins, chair of ASCEL said: “The ASCEL Board are looking forward to seeing her lead the organisation into its second year as an Investment Principles Support Organisation and developing the programme of work with the excellent executive team. A key part of this will be reviewing the Member’s offer and developing the Children’s Promise Alliance, thus ensuring that ASCEL is in an ideal position to grasp future opportunities.”
Isobel Hunter, c.e.o. of Libraries Connected commented: “Tabitha has made a huge impact at Libraries Connected — her strategic expertise and experience have been invaluable in the set-up phase of our regional development project. While we’re sad to see her go, we’re delighted that ASCEL will now benefit from her passion, drive and deep knowledge of the libraries sector.”
Adam Tulloch, former c.e.o. at ASCEL, stepped down in October 2023.
