Larne woman opens new chapter in history of the Linen Hall Library

Julie Andrews joined the iconic institution after five years as general manager of the popular arts and culture venue Spectrum Centre, based in Belfast’s Shankill area.

Graduating from Queen’s University with an LLB (Hons) law degree in 1993, Ms Andrews has worked in a number of industries including property and mobile communications.

Her extra-curricular activities include serving as president of Belfast Soroptimists and sitting on the Food Safety Promotion Board, as well as being a qualified reflexologist.

She said: “I am thrilled to be taking on the directorship of this most wonderful institution – especially during its landmark 225th year.

“These are difficult times for all organisations, especially charitable institutions such as the Linen Hall. Priority will, of course, be the production and implementation of a strong fundraising strategy for the library as well as making changes necessary to see the library in a secure position for the next 225 years.

“I am also honoured to be the first female to lead such a distinguished organisation which has always embraced an impartial and equitable philosophy and was one of few institutions that offered membership to women when it first opened in 1788.”