The National Librarian of Norway, Aslak Sira Myhre, received a stone sculpture valued at almost half a million kroner as a farewell gift during a Christmas party, raising eyebrows about the appropriateness of such an expensive gift.
The Christmas party tradition in Norway often leads to unusual events, and this year was no exception at the National Library. Aslak Sira Myhre, the National Librarian, was given a farewell gift – a stone sculpture depicting the head of King Magnus Lagabøte – that cost the library a staggering 400,000 kroner. The gift, originally intended to be a tribute for his 11 years of service, has sparked discussions about excessive spending in public institutions, particularly on such a seemingly frivolous item.
The sculpture is a replica destined for an exhibition at the National Library in 2024, with the original piece displayed in the Stavanger Cathedral. While Myhre expressed his delight, calling it "the best farewell gift one could imagine," the cost has not gone unnoticed by critics and taxpayers. The incident has brought the focus onto what is deemed appropriate spending in public sectors and how celebratory occasions have the potential for financial missteps.
As humor and criticism fill the air around this incident, it serves as a reminder of the fine line public institutions must walk regarding budgetary constraints and celebratory expenses. The case may leave a lingering impact on how institutions approach gift-giving, especially in contexts where accountability and public trust are crucial.
