Trond Myklebust, the acting national librarian of Norway, recently came under fire for gifting an expensive stone head as a farewell present to his best man, Aslak Sira Myhre. The gift has sparked strong reactions following coverage by the newspaper Bergens Tidende, raising questions about Myklebust’s judgment and the appropriateness of such a gesture given his position. Myklebust himself has acknowledged that he made a mistake and expressed regret over the decision.

Culture Minister Lubna Jaffery emphasized the inappropriateness of the gift, labeling it a "misjudgment" that could undermine public trust in cultural institutions. The controversy revolves around the expectations of impartiality for public officials, especially in sensitive roles like that of a national librarian. The incident has led to broader discussions regarding ethics in public service and the perception of favoritism that can arise from personal gifts in professional contexts.

This situation not only highlights the scrutiny that public figures are under but also raises essential questions about the boundaries of personal relationships and professional responsibilities. The national library's integrity may be at stake, and actions taken in the wake of this incident will likely influence its reputation and future dealings, as the ministry reviews protocols surrounding gift-giving among its officials.