The Norwegian Library Association, which promotes libraries as democratic institutions, has announced that it is pausing the guardianship role of Crown Princess Mette-Marit. This decision comes in light of recent information that has raised critical questions regarding the association's values of transparency, trust, and safety, particularly for children and young people in library spaces. The organization emphasizes the importance of libraries as safe environments for democratic participation and engagement.

The association's statement underscores its commitment to fostering open and secure spaces for all library users, which are especially crucial for the younger demographic. As an advocate for the library sector, the Norwegian Library Association seeks to protect these foundational democratic values, and the pause in the guardianship role reflects a need to reassess their relationship with the Crown Princess amidst ongoing concerns.

This development may have broader implications for the role of public figures in supporting community institutions. By putting the guardianship on hold, the association is signaling a movement towards accountability and a reconsideration of how such roles align with the organization’s commitment to democracy and openness. This step may instigate further discussion about the responsibilities of public figures in association with institutions that fundamentally serve the community.