Abstract

This study aims to establish the roles and operational systems of regional representative libraries in light of the 2021 Library Act revision in South Korea. The research methodology involved a comprehensive review of relevant legislation and local ordinances, coupled with surveys and interviews conducted with officials from 17 metropolitan and provincial governments and regional representative libraries nationwide. The findings indicate that the formulation and implementation of regional library policies were perceived as the most critical role of regional representative libraries, while their support and cooperation with local libraries were recognized as their most significant operational achievement. Regarding the relationship between provincial/metropolitan governments and regional representative libraries, the prevailing opinion suggested the necessity of maintaining library policy departments within main government offices, even after the establishment of regional representative libraries. However, concerns were raised about potential inefficiencies due to task duplication and limitations in policy-making that may not adequately reflect field requirements. The significance of this study lies in its systematic classification of representative libraries based on their operational status and its in-depth analysis of the practical situations and conditions faced by both government offices and representative libraries. Through this approach, the research explores strategies for regional representative libraries to contribute effectively to balanced development and the reduction of information disparities between regions.