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LIBRARIES ACT

Wholly Amended by Act No. 8029, Oct. 4, 2006

Amended by Act No. 8069, Dec. 20, 2006

Act No. 9528, Mar. 25, 2009

Act No. 10558, Apr. 5, 2011

Act No. 11310, Feb. 17, 2012

Act No. 13222, Mar. 27, 2015

Act No. 13960, Feb. 3, 2016

Act No. 15167, Dec. 12, 2017

Act No. 16685, Dec. 3, 2019

Act No. 17402, jun. 9, 2020

CHAPTER I GENERAL PROVISIONS
 Article 1 (Purpose)
The purpose of this Act is to contribute to the cultural development of the nation and society, such as the efficient furnishing and circulation of materials to the whole society, narrowing of the gap in the access to and utilization of information, promotion of lifelong education, etc. by fostering libraries and by revitalizing their services through prescribing matters necessary for social responsibilities and role performance of libraries that guarantee people's right of access to information and people's right to know.
 Article 2 (Definitions)
The terms used in this Act shall be defined as follows: <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009; Feb. 3, 2016>
1. The term "library" refers to a facility which contributes to the utilization of information, investigation, research, study, culture, lifelong education, etc. by furnishing library materials to the public after collecting, organizing, analyzing, and preserving them;
2. The term "library materials" refers to all materials (including online materials) in which information is accumulated for the purpose of transmitting knowledge and information resources, such as printed materials, manuscript materials, audio-visual materials, microfiche materials, electronic materials, special materials for the disabled, etc., and which a library collects, organizes and preserves;
3. The term "library service" refers to any kind of material or immaterial service provided or rendered by a library by utilizing library materials and facilities, such as lending, perusal, and reference service, access to all kinds of facilities and information equipment, usage guidance and education to strengthen the ability to obtain materials and to understand information, support in the reading activities of the general public, etc.;
3-2. The term “regional representative library” refers to a library designated or established by the Special Metropolitan City, a Metropolitan City, the Special Self-Governing City, a Do, or the Special Self-Governing Province so as to contribute to the balanced development of libraries in the relevant region by supporting libraries in such region and in cooperating therewith;
4. The term "public library" refers to a library founded and operated by the State or a local government, or by a superintendent of education pursuant to Article 32 of the Local Education Autonomy Act (hereinafter referred to as a "governmental public library") for the utilization of information, reading activities, cultural activities and lifelong education of the public, or a library established and operated by a corporation (referring to a corporation established under the Civil Act or other Acts; hereinafter the same shall apply), an organization, or an individual (hereinafter referred to as "nongovernmental public library"). The following facilities shall be included in the scope of public libraries:
(a) Small library which aims at providing the general public with knowledge, information and reading culture services within their living zone and which falls short of the standards for facilities and library materials of a governmental public library provided for in Article 5;
(b) Library for the disabled which aims at providing library services to the disabled;
(c) Hospital library which aims at providing library services to the persons hospitalized in medical institutions or their guardians, etc.;
(d) Barrack library which aims at providing library services to the officers and soldiers in the barracks of military units of all the echelons in the Army, Navy, Air Force, etc.;
(e) Prison library which aims at providing library services to persons committed to jails;
(f) Children's library which aims at providing library services to children;
5. The term "university library" refers to a library which aims at providing library services to professors, students and staff at a university or college established under Article 2 of the Higher Education Act and at an higher education institution established under other Acts;
6. The term "school library" refers to a library which aims at providing library services to teachers, students and staff at all high schools or schools at lower levels pursuant to Article 2 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act;
7. The term "special library" refers to a library which aims at providing special library services in a specific field to the staff of the institution or organization that has established the library, or to the public;
7-2. The term “librarian” refers to a person who meets qualification requirements referred to in Article 6 (2) and works at a facility referred to in Article 3;
8. The term "presentation" refers that the person who has published or made library materials shall present a specified number of copies to the agencies prescribed in statutes;
9. The term "online materials" refers to materials publicly transmitted (referring to public transmission under subparagraph 7 of Article 2 of the Copyright Act; hereinafter the same shall apply) through an information communications network (referring to an information communications network under Article 2 (1) 1 of the Act on Promotion of Information and Communications Network Utilization and Information Protection, Etc.; hereinafter the same shall apply);
10. The term "online materials provider" refers to a person who publicly transmits online materials through an information communications network;
11. The term "technical protective measure" means a technical measure taken by a holder of right or a person who has obtained the said holder's consent for the purpose of effectively preventing or controlling an infringement on rights protected under the Copyright Act, such as a copyright.
 Article 3 (Scope of Application)
This Act shall also apply to a facility recognized by the Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, as prescribed by Presidential Decree, among information offices, information centers, data bureaus, data centers, cultural centers or facilities with a similar name and function. <Amended on Mar, 25, 2009>
 Article 4 (Duties of State and Each Local Government)
The State and local governments shall support the development of libraries and formulate action plans necessary therefor so that the public may have access to and utilize knowledge and information freely and without discrimination.
 Article 5 (Libraries Facilities and Materials)
(1) Libraries shall be equipped with facilities suitable for preserving and processing library materials and the convenience of users as well as library materials. <Amended on Mar, 25, 2009>
(2) Libraries may exchange, transfer, discard, and withdraw library materials to efficiently preserve and manage them: Provided, That libraries may exchange and transfer on-line materials only where they are permanently closed. <Newly Inserted on Feb. 3, 2016>
(3) Standards for library facilities and materials provided for in paragraph (1) and standards for, and scope of, exchange, transfer, and withdrawal of library materials pursuant to paragraph (2) shall be prescribed by Presidential Decree. <Amended on Mar, 25, 2009; Feb. 3, 2016>
[Title Amended on Mar. 25, 2009]
 Article 6 (Librarians)
(1) Libraries shall employ librarians necessary for its operation and teacher-librarians and vocational teachers under Article 21 (2) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act as prescribed by Presidential Decree and may employ computer personnel and other professional staff necessary for its operation. <Amended on Mar, 25, 2009; Feb. 17, 2012>
(2) Matters necessary for the classification, qualification requirements, and training of librarians pursuant to paragraph (1) shall be prescribed by Presidential Decree. <Amended on Mar, 25, 2009; Feb. 17, 2012>
(3) The Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism shall issue a certificate to a person meeting the qualification requirements of librarians pursuant to paragraph (2). <Newly Inserted on Dec. 3, 2019>
(4) The State and each local government shall endeavor to enhance the ability of library staff to perform professional duties and provide them with opportunities to receive education accordingly. <Amended on Dec. 3, 2019>
[Title Amended on Feb. 17, 2012]
 Article 6-2 (Revocation of Qualification)
(1) Where a person who is issued a certificate pursuant to Article 6 (3) falls under any of the following subparagraphs, the Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism shall cancel the qualification:
1. Where he/she has acquired qualifications by fraud or other improper means;
2. Where he/she lends his/her certificate issued pursuant to Article 6 (3) to a third person.
[This Article Newly Inserted on Dec. 3, 2019]
 Article 6-3 (Hearings)
Where the Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism revokes qualification pursuant to Article 6 (2), he/she shall hold a hearing.
[This Article Newly Inserted on Dec. 3, 2019]
 Article 7 (Utilization of Libraries, Provision of Library Services, and Other Relevant Matters)
(1) Libraries shall cooperate with each other in order to enhance business efficiency regarding the distribution, administration, utilization, etc. of library materials, and to mutually utilize knowledge and information. <Amended on Mar, 25, 2009>
(2) Libraries shall cooperate with various kinds of cultural facilities, such as museums, art galleries, cultural centers, cultural houses, etc., educational facilities, administrative agencies, relevant organizations and local communities to provide residents with diverse services.
(3) University libraries, school libraries, special libraries, etc. may allow the public to utilize their facilities and library materials to the extent that does not interfere with the performance of their purposes of establishment. <Amended on Mar, 25, 2009>
 Article 8 (Protection of Personal Information of Users)
In order to protect personal information of library users, libraries shall take measures on each of the following matters:
1. Matters regarding the enactment of provisions on the collection, administration, disclosure, etc. of user information;
2. Matters regarding education of library staff;
3. Other matters recognized by the director of a library as necessary for the protection of personal information of users.
 Article 9 (Donation of Money)
(1) In order to support the establishment and operation of a library and its facilities and materials, any person may donate money or other property to the library. <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009>
(2) Notwithstanding the provisions of the Act on Collection and Use of Donations, a library established by the State or a local government may accept a donation made under paragraph (1). <Newly Inserted on Apr. 5, 2011>
 Article 10 Deleted. <Mar. 25, 2009>
 Article 11 (Relationship with Other Acts)
Except as expressly otherwise provided by other Acts, this Act shall apply to libraries.
CHAPTER II SYSTEM FOR FORMULATION AND PROMOTION OF LIBRARY POLICIES
 Article 12 (Establishment of Library Information Policy Committee)
(1) In order to formulate, deliberate on and coordinate important matters regarding library policies, a Library Information Policy Committee (hereinafter referred to as "Library Committee") shall be established under the direct jurisdiction of the President.
(2) The Library Committee shall formulate, deliberate on and coordinate each of the following matters: <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009>
1. Matters regarding formulation of a comprehensive plan pursuant to Article 14;
2. Matters regarding library systems;
3. Matters regarding operating systems of national and local libraries;
4. Matters regarding operational assessment of libraries;
5. Matters regarding narrowing the gap in the access and use of libraries and library materials;
6. Matters regarding training of library professionals;
7. Other matters prescribed by Presidential Decree for library policies.
(3) In order to support clerical matters of the Library Committee, a secretariat shall be established within the Committee and a planning body shall be set up within the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism in order to perform the functions provided for in paragraph (2). <Amended on Mar, 25, 2009>
(4) Matters necessary for the establishment, operation, etc., of the secretariat and the planning body shall be prescribed by Presidential Decree.
(5) The chairperson may request the dispatch of public officials of relevant administrative agencies or officers and employees of relevant organizations where it is needed for the performance of business of the secretariat and the planning body. In such cases, the head of the organization who has been requested shall comply therewith in the absence of special circumstances.
 Article 13 (Organization of Library Committee)
(1) The Library Committee shall consist of up to thirty members, including one chairperson and one vice-chairperson.
(2) The chairperson shall be appointed by the President, from among those who have considerable expertise and experience relating to libraries, and the Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism shall serve as vice-chairperson. <Amended on Apr. 5, 2011>
(3) The following persons shall serve as members: <Newly Inserted on Apr. 5, 2011; Feb. 17, 2012>
1. The heads of relevant central administrative agencies prescribed by Presidential Decree and the heads of other agencies equivalent thereto;
2. Persons appointed by the chairperson from among those with considerable expertise and experience in library or considerable expertise and experience in the promotion of knowledge and information of the people: Provided, That inaugural members shall be appointed by the vice-chairperson.
(4) The chairperson shall call and preside over meetings of the Committee. <Amended on Apr. 5, 2011>
(5) If deemed necessary, the chairperson may have the vice-chairperson act on his/her behalf. <Amended on Apr. 5, 2011>
(6) The term of office for the chairperson, and members provided for in paragraph (3) 2 shall be two years, which may be renewed only once. <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009; Apr. 5, 2011; Feb. 3, 2016>
(7) When a member is unable to perform his/her work due to an extenuating circumstance or a vacancy occurs, a new member shall be appointed without delay. In such cases, the term of office for a member filling the vacancy shall be the term of office for his/her predecessor. <Amended on Apr. 5, 2011>
(8) Matters necessary for the operation, etc. of the Library Committee shall be prescribed by Presidential Decree. <Amended on Apr. 5, 2011>
 Article 14 (Formulation of Comprehensive Library Development Plans)
(1) The chairperson of the Library Committee shall formulate a comprehensive plan for the development of libraries every five years (hereinafter referred to as "comprehensive plan").
(2) The comprehensive plan shall include the following: <Amended on Feb. 17, 2012>
1. Matters regarding guidelines for library policies;
2. Matters regarding the objective and method of promoting library policies:
(a) Matters regarding strengthening of the role of libraries;
(b) Matters regarding the improvement of environment of libraries;
(c) Matters regarding the promotion of library services to the knowledge and information poor pursuant to Article 43;
(d) Matters regarding the facilitation of a cooperation system between libraries;
(e) Other matters regarding important library policies;
3. Matters regarding tasks to be promoted with emphasis and the cooperation of relevant Ministries, Offices, etc.
 Article 15 (Formulation of Annual Execution Plan)
(1) The head of a central administrative agency, the Special Metropolitan City Mayor, a Metropolitan City Mayor, the Mayor of a Special Self-Governing City, a Do Governor and the Governor of a Special Self-Governing Province (hereinafter referred to as "Mayor/Do Governor") shall formulate and promote an annual execution plan (hereinafter referred to as "execution plan") based on such comprehensive plan by not later than the end of every December. <Amended on Mar, 25, 2009; Feb. 17, 2012>
(2) A Mayor/Do Governor may consult with the superintendent of education in the relevant area when establishing and implementing an execution plan. <Newly Inserted on Mar, 25, 2009>
(3) Each year, the head of a central administrative agency and a Mayor/Do Governor shall submit an execution plan for relevant year and the results of implementation for the previous year to the chairperson of the Library Committee, as prescribed by Presidential Decree. <Newly Inserted on Jun. 9, 2020>
(4) The chairperson of the Library Committee shall comprehensively evaluate the results of implementation received pursuant to paragraph (3). <Newly Inserted on Jun. 9, 2020>
(5) Other matters necessary for the formulation and implementation of an execution plan and evaluation of the results of implementation shall be prescribed by Presidential Decree. <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009; Jun. 9, 2020>
 Article 16 (Raising Funds)
(1) The State and each local government shall secure funds necessary for the promotion of a comprehensive plan and an execution plan.
(2) All or part of the funds necessary for the development of libraries may be contributed or subsidized by the Culture and Arts Promotion Fund pursuant to Article 16 of the Culture and Arts Promotion Act. <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009>
 Article 17 (Establishment of Library-Related Association, etc.)
(1) The Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism may grant permission to establish a juristic person, such as an association or organization related to libraries (hereinafter referred to as "association, etc.") where it is necessary for the mutual exchange of library materials between libraries; study on business cooperation, operation, and administration; mutual cooperation with related international organizations; promotion of library services and development of libraries; upgrading of the quality of staff; and promotion of mutual benefits. <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009; Feb. 3, 2016>
(2) The State may subsidize expenses incurred in operating the association, etc., established under paragraph (1). <Amended on Mar, 25, 2009>
(3) Except as prescribed by this Act, the provisions on non-profit corporations of the Civil Act shall apply mutatis mutandis to the association, etc.
CHAPTER III NATIONAL LIBRARY OF KOREA
 Article 18 (Establishment)
(1) The Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism shall set up the National Library of Korea under his/her jurisdiction as a library representing the State. <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009>
(2) Where it is necessary for the efficient business handling and balanced development of district libraries, the National Library of Korea may establish branch libraries for each district and field.
(3) Other matters necessary for the organization, operation, etc., of the National Library of Korea shall be prescribed by Presidential Decree.
 Article 19 (Duties)
(1) The National Library of Korea shall perform each of the following duties: <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009; Feb. 3, 2016>
1. Execution of related measures according to the comprehensive plan;
2. Collection, provision, preservation and administration of domestic and foreign library materials;
3. Preparation and standardization of national bibliographies;
4. Construction of the national bibliographic information system through computerization;
5. Guidance, assistance, and cooperation to local libraries, such as the education and training of library staff;
6. Exchange and cooperation with foreign libraries;
7. Surveys and researches for developing libraries;
8. Support for and cooperation in reading promotion activities under the Reading Culture Promotion Act;
9. Other services necessary for executing functions as a representing library of the State.
(2) Matters necessary for the performance of duties under paragraph (1) shall be prescribed by Presidential Decree. <Newly Inserted on Mar, 25, 2009>
(3) The National Library of Korea shall have a preservation and research center (hereinafter referred to as "research center") in order to perform its duties under paragraph (1) 7. <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009; Feb. 3, 2016>
(4) The establishment, operation, and duties of the research center shall be prescribed by Presidential Decree. <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009; Feb. 3, 2016>
(5) The National Library of Korea shall cooperate with the National Assembly Library in order to efficiently perform its duties. <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009>
 Article 20 (Legal Deposit of Library Materials)
(1) When anyone has published or produced a library material (excluding online materials: Provided, That, among online materials, those to which international standard book or serial numbers are assigned under Article 21 shall be included; hereafter the same shall apply in this Article), he/she shall make a legal deposit of such library materials to the National Library of Korea within 30 days from the date such library material is published or produced. The same shall apply when he/she publishes or produces a revised and enlarged edition. <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009; Feb. 3, 2016>
(2) Where the State, a local government, or any other public institution prescribed by Presidential Decree makes a legal deposit of library materials to the National Library of Korea pursuant to paragraph (1), it shall ensure such legal deposit in digital file format as prescribed by Presidential Decree. <Newly Inserted on Feb. 3, 2016>
(3) Where it is necessary to perform duties provided for in Article 45 (2) 3, the National Library of Korea may request a person published or produced a library material to also make a legal deposit of such library material in digital format. In such cases, the person in receipt of such request shall make a legal deposit with the National Library within 30 days from the date of receipt of the request unless he/she has a compelling reason not to do so. <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009; Feb. 3, 2016; Dec. 12, 2017>
(4) The National Library of Korea shall issue a certificate of legal deposit without delay to a person who makes a legal deposit of library materials pursuant to paragraphs (1) through (3); where all or some of deposited library materials are for sale, it shall make due compensation for such library materials. <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009; Feb. 17, 2012; Feb. 3, 2016>
(5) Matters necessary for the selection, kinds, forms, and copies of library materials subject to legal deposit, and collection procedures, compensation, etc., for such library materials shall be prescribed by Presidential Decree. <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009>
[Title Amended on Mar. 25, 2009]
 Article 20-2 (Collection of Online Materials)
(1) The National Library of Korea shall select online materials highly worth preserving, from among those serviced in the Republic of Korea, and collect and preserve them.
(2) When the collection of online materials is restricted by a technical protective measure, etc., the National Library of Korea may request the relevant online materials provider to render cooperation. The online material provider in receipt of such request shall comply therewith unless he/she has a compelling reason not to do so.
(3) A person who becomes aware of the fact that his/her personal information is included in such collected online materials may request the chief executive of the National Library of Korea to correct, delete, etc. such information as prescribed by Presidential Decree.
(4) A person whose rights or interests are infringed due to disposition or omission by the chief executive of the National Library of Korea, with respect to a request made under paragraph (3), may apply for an administrative appeal as provided for in the Administrative Appeals Act or institute an administrative litigation as provided for in the Administrative Litigation Act.
(5) Where all or some of on-line library materials collected under paragraph (1) is for sale, the National Library of Korea shall make due compensation for such on-line library materials.
(6) Matters necessary for the selection, kinds, and forms of on-line library materials subject to legal deposit, and collection procedures, compensation, etc., for such on-line library materials shall be prescribed by Presidential Decree.
[This Article Newly Inserted on Mar. 25, 2009]
 Article 21 (International Standard Book or Serial Numbers)
(1) Any public agency, individual, or organization that intends to publish or produce a book or periodical (including books and periodicals published or produced online) shall be assigned an international standard book or serial number (hereinafter referred to as "ISBN/ISSN") from the National Library of Korea with respect to such book or periodical. <Amended on Feb. 3, 2016>
(2) In order to efficiently perform such duties as are provided for in paragraph (1), the National Library of Korea shall mutually cooperate with the relevant institutions, organizations, etc. specializing in publication, etc.
(3) Matters necessary for assigning an ISBN/ISSN shall be prescribed by Presidential Decree.
CHAPTER IV REGIONAL REPRESENTATIVE LIBRARIES
 Article 22 (Establishment, etc.)
(1) The Special Metropolitan City, each Metropolitan City, the Special Self-Governing City, each Do, and the Special Self-Governing Province (hereinafter referred to as "City/Do") shall operate a regional representative library in the relevant district, either by designating or establishing it, in order to formulate and execute library policies for such district and to systematically support the relevant services. <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009; Feb. 17, 2012>
(2) Matters necessary for the formulation and operation of regional representative libraries pursuant to paragraph (1) shall be prescribed by Presidential Decree. <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009>
[Title Amended on Mar. 25, 2009]
 Article 23 (Duties)
A regional representative library shall perform each of the following duties: <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009>
1. Comprehensive collection, technical processing, preservation, and provision of library materials for the relevant City/Do;
2. Support to various libraries and implement of cooperative projects in the relevant district;
3. Survey and research on library duties;
4. Support to collect district library materials in the relevant district and to preserve library materials transferred from other libraries;
5. Support for the activities of library material collection and cooperative projects of libraries conducted by the National Library of Korea;
6. Other duties necessary as a regional representative library.
 Article 24 (Establishment, etc. of Local Library Information Service Committee)
(1) Each City/Do shall set up a local library information service committee (hereinafter referred to as "local library committee") in order to deliberate on important matters regarding the balanced development of libraries in the district under its jurisdiction and the narrowing of gap in knowledge and information.
(2) The local library committee shall deliberate on the following matters:
1. Matters regarding the balanced development of local libraries;
2. Matters regarding the local libraries' narrowing of gap in knowledge and information;
3. Other matters recognized by the local library committee as necessary for local library policies.
(3) The local library committee shall consist of up to 15 members, including one chairperson and one vice-chairperson.
(4) The vice mayor/vice governor (referring to a vice mayor/vice governor nominated by the relevant Mayor/Do Governor where there are at least two vice mayors/vice governors in the relevant City/Do) shall be the chairperson, the head of a regional representative library shall be the vice-chairperson, and members shall be appointed by the chairperson from among those with considerable expert knowledge and experience in libraries. <Amended on Feb. 3, 2016>
(5) The chairperson shall convene and preside over the committee’s meetings.
(6) The chairperson may require have the vice-chairperson to act on his/her behalf if necessary.
(7) Matters necessary for the operation of a local library committee shall be stipulated by municipal ordinance of the relevant local government.
 Article 25 (Subsidization of Operating Costs)
The State may partially subsidize project costs incurred in conducting projects for a City/Do which has set up a regional representative library for the effective operation of a cooperative system between libraries.
 Article 26 (Submission of Library Materials)
(1) Where a local government has published or produced a material, it shall submit such library material to the library representing the district under its jurisdiction within 30 days after the date such material is published or produced. This shall also apply when a local government publishes or produces a revised and enlarged edition. <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009>
(2) Matters necessary for the kinds and copies of library materials subject to submission, procedures for the submission thereof, and other relevant matters shall be prescribed by Presidential Decree. This shall also apply when he/she publishes or produces a revised and enlarged edition. <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009>
[Title Amended on Mar. 25, 2009]
CHAPTER IV-2 PUBLIC LIBRARY
 Article 27 (Establishment)
(1) The State or local governments shall establish and foster governmental public libraries as prescribed by Presidential Decree. <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009>
(2) Anyone may establish and operate a nongovernmental public library. <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009>
(3) A governmental public library established under paragraph (1) shall use the name, "library". <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009>
[Title Amended on Mar. 25, 2009]
 Article 28 (Duties)
A public library shall perform each of the following duties so that it may function as a center of information, culture and education: <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009>
1. Collection, technical processing, and preservation of library materials, and provision thereof for the use of the public;
2. Provision of information needed by the public and provision of information needed for local administration;
3. Formulation and execution of plans for everyday reading practice;
4. Sponsorship or encouragement of lectures, exhibitions, reading clubs, cultural activities and activities regarding lifelong education;
5. Close cooperation with other libraries and interlibrary loan of library materials;
6. Establishment and fosterage of branches, etc. in accordance with the characteristics of a relevant district;
7. Other duties necessary for performing functions as a public library.
 Article 29 (Operation and Support of Governmental Public Libraries)
(1) The State or each local government may partially subsidize the expenses incurred in establishing and operating libraries and in collecting library materials, etc., and otherwise give support necessary for the balanced development and efficient operation of governmental public libraries. <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009>
(2) The operating expenses of a governmental public library established and operated by a local government shall be borne by the local government concerned from its general account. <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009>
(3) With respect to a governmental public library established and operated by the superintendent of education pursuant to Article 32 of the Local Education Autonomy Act, the local government concerned shall bear part of the operating expenses thereof within its general account budget. <Amended on Dec. 20, 2006; Mar. 25, 2009>
 Article 30 (Director of Governmental Public Library and Library Steering Committees)
(1) The director of a governmental public library shall be appointed from among librarians.
(2) Each governmental public library shall set up a library steering committee in order to promote efficient operation of the library concerned and to closely cooperate with various kinds of cultural facilities.
(3) Matters necessary for the composition and operation of library steering committees set up under paragraph (2) shall be stipulated by municipal ordinance of the local government concerned. <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009>
 Article 31 (Registration and Permanent Closure of Nongovernmental Public Libraries)
(1) Anyone seeking to establish a nongovernmental public library may apply for registration with the Mayor of a Special Self-Governing City, the Governor of a Special Self-Governing Province, or the head of a Si/Gun/autonomous Gu (hereinafter referred to as the "head of a Si/Gun/Gu") as prescribed by Presidential Decree after meeting the standards for facilities, library materials, librarians, etc. as prescribed in Articles 5 and 6. In such cases, the head of a Si/Gun/Gu shall issue a certificate of registration. <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009; Feb. 17, 2012>
(2) Where a person registered under paragraph (1) intends to modify any registered matter, the person shall apply for a modification of registration. <Newly Inserted on Mar. 25, 2009>
(3) Where the founder of a nongovernmental public library who has obtained registration pursuant to paragraph (1) intends to permanently close the library concerned, he/she shall return the certificate of registration to the head of the competent Si/Gun/Gu. <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009>
 Article 31-2 (Revocation of Registration)
(1) The head of a Si/Gun/Gu may, if a nongovernmental public library registered under Article 31 (1) falls under any of the following cases, revoke its registration, request it to make correction within a specified time limit, or order to suspend operations for a period not exceeding six months:
1. Where the nongovernmental public library has obtained registration by fraud or other improper means;
2. Where the nongovernmental public library fails to apply for a modification of registration required under Article 31 (2);
3. Where it is deemed that the nongovernmental public library cannot perform its duties under Article 28 due to its failure to maintain the standards, etc. for facilities and library materials referred to in Articles 5 and 6;
4. Where the nongovernmental public library engages in management and operation, in violation of its establishment purpose under this Act.
(2) When the registration of a nongovernmental public library is revoked under paragraph (1), the representative of the said library shall return its certificate of registration to the head of the Si/Gun/Gu within one month.
[This Article Newly Inserted on Mar. 25, 2009]
 Article 31-3 (Hearings)
The head of a Si/Gun/Gu shall hold a hearing if he/she intends to revoke registration or issue an order to suspend operations pursuant to Article 31-2. <Amended on Feb. 17, 2012>
[This Article Newly Inserted on Mar. 25, 2009]
 Article 32 (Support to Nongovernmental Public Libraries)
(1) The State may provide support necessary for the balanced development of nongovernmental public libraries registered pursuant to Article 31 (1). <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009; Apr. 5, 2011; Feb. 3, 2016>
(2) A local government may subsidize operating costs for a nongovernmental public library registered under Article 31 (1) or provide it with support for other necessary matters if it is necessary for the efficient operation of such nongovernmental public library. <Newly Inserted on Feb. 3, 2016>
(3) If it is deemed necessary for the establishment and operation of a nongovernmental public library, the State and the head of the local government may allow it to use or lease state-owned or public-owned property without compensation, notwithstanding the relevant provisions of the State Property Act, the Public Property and Commodity Management Act, or other Acts. <Newly Inserted on Apr. 5, 2011; Feb. 3, 2016>
 Article 33 (Use Fees)
A public library may collect a fee, etc. from the users thereof as prescribed by Presidential Decree. <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009>
[Title Amended on Mar. 25, 2009]
CHAPTER V UNIVERSITY LIBRARY
 Article 34 (Establishment)
(1) Universities and colleges established pursuant to Article 2 of the Higher Education Act, and educational institutions having college courses or higher established pursuant to the provisions of other Acts, shall set up university libraries. <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009; Mar. 27, 2015>
(2) Matters concerning the duties, operation, etc., of university libraries referred to in paragraph (1) shall be separately prescribed by an Act. <Newly Inserted on Mar. 27, 2015>
 Article 35 Deleted. <Mar. 27, 2015>
 Article 36 Deleted. <Mar. 27, 2015>
CHAPTER VI SCHOOL LIBRARY
 Article 37 (Establishment)
Each school pursuant to Article 2 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act shall set up a school library. <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009>
 Article 38 (Duties)
A school library shall perform the following duties in order to support the teaching and studying activities of teachers, students, etc.: <Amended on Mar, 25, 2009>
1. Collection, technical processing, and preservation of library materials necessary for school education, and provision of access to such materials;
2. Management of educational materials held by a school in an integrated manner and provision of services for using such materials;
3. Development and production of audio-visual materials, and provision of services for using such materials;
4. Construction of the information sharing system utilizing information management systems and communication networks and provision of services for using such system;
5. Education of information utilization through library instruction, reading education, cooperative teaching, etc.;
6. Other duties necessary to perform functions as a school library.
 Article 39 (Instruction and Supervision)
Each school library shall be subject to instruction and supervision by the authorities supervising the relevant school as prescribed by the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, the Private School Act and other Acts.
CHAPTER VII SPECIAL LIBRARY
 Article 40 (Registration and Permanent Closure of Libraries)
(1) The State, any local government, juristic person, organization, or individual may set up a special library.
(2) Anyone seeking to set up a special library (hereinafter referred to as "nongovernmental special library") may apply for registration to the head of a Si/Gun/Gu as prescribed by Presidential Decree after meeting the standards for facilities, library materials, and librarians referred to in Articles 5 and 6. In such cases, the head of a Si/Gun/Gu shall issue a certificate of registration. <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009; Feb. 17, 2012>
(3) If a person who has completed registration pursuant to paragraph (2) intends to modify registered matters, he/she shall make registration of modification. <Newly Inserted on Feb. 17, 2012>
(4) Where the founder of a nongovernmental special library registered pursuant to paragraph (2) intends to permanently close the library concerned, he/she shall return the certificate of registration to the head of the Si/Gun/Gu. <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009>
 Article 41 (Duties)
A special library shall perform each of the following duties: <Amended on Mar, 25, 2009>
1. Collection, technical processing, and preservation of library materials necessary for specialized scholastic and research activities, and provision of access to such materials;
2. Expeditious and efficient assistance to scholastic and research activities;
3. Various cooperative activities, including the exchange of library materials with other libraries;
4. Other duties necessary for performing functions as a special library.
 Article 42 (Application Mutatis Mutandis)
Articles 31-2, 31-3, and 32 shall apply mutatis mutandis to nongovernmental special libraries registered pursuant to Article 40 (2). <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009; Feb. 17, 2012>
CHAPTER VIII NARROWING OF GAP IN KNOWLEDGE AND INFORMATION
 Article 43 (Responsibilities of Libraries)
(1) Libraries shall take all necessary measures so that all the people are provided with impartial library services irrespective of their physical, regional, economic and social status.
(2) Libraries shall take the following measures in order to narrow the knowledge and information gap suffered by persons with disabilities and the knowledge and information poor prescribed by Presidential Decree (hereinafter referred to as the "knowledge and information poor"):
1. Expansion and provision of library materials and construction of a joint utilization system;
2. Expansion and provision of education and culture programs;
3. Expansion of convenience facilities of libraries, provision of convenience in using libraries and employing professional personnel;
4. Cooperation with other libraries and related organizations;
5. Other matters necessary for narrowing the knowledge and information gap.
[This Article Wholly Amended on Feb. 17, 2012]
 Article 44 (Assistance in Narrowing Knowledge and Information Gap)
(1) The State and local governments shall take the following measures so that the knowledge and information poor may freely use the facilities and services of libraries: <Wholly Amended on Feb. 17, 2012>
1. Matters concerning the expansion and provision of library materials to narrow the knowledge and information gap and the construction of a joint utilization system;
2. Matters concerning the expansion of convenience facilities of libraries to narrow the knowledge and information gap and the fostering of professional personnel;
3. Other matters necessary for narrowing the knowledge and information gap.
(2) The State and local governments may fully or partially subsidize to cover costs necessary for the projects promoted by libraries in order to narrow the knowledge and information gap suffered by the knowledge and information poor. <Amended on Feb. 17, 2012>
(3) The State or local governments may, where the knowledge and information poor use library materials, fully or partially subsidize compensations to be paid to the holders of author's economic right holders under Article 31 (5) of the Copyright Act within budgetary limits. <Newly Inserted on Mar. 25, 2009>
[Title Amended on Feb. 17, 2012]
 Article 45 (Establishment and Operation of National Library for the Disabled)
(1) In order to assist library services especially for persons with disabilities from among the knowledge and information poor, there shall be established a National Library for the Disabled under the jurisdiction of the Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism. <Amended on Dec. 3, 2019>
(2) The National Library for the Disabled shall perform the following duties:
1. Formulation and overall management of national policies for library services for persons with disabilities;
2. Formulation of standards and guidelines for library services for persons with disabilities;
3. Collection, production, support for production and provision of library materials for persons with disabilities;
4. Matters concerning formulation, assessment, verification, distribution, etc., of the standards of library materials for persons with disabilities;
5. Construction of a system for sharing library materials for persons with disabilities and joint utilization thereof;
6. Research, development, and distribution of library services and special facilities for persons with disabilities;
7. Matters concerning education and culture programs for use of knowledge and information by persons with disabilities;
8. Education of professional personnel in charge of library services for persons with disabilities;
9. Cooperation with libraries and related organizations in the Republic of Korea and abroad;
10. Other duties concerning library services necessary for persons with disabilities.
(3) Other matters necessary for the organization and operation of the National Library for the Disabled shall be prescribed by Presidential Decree. <Amended on Dec. 3, 2019>
[This Article Wholly Amended on Feb. 17, 2012]
[Title Amended on Dec. 3, 2019]
CHAPTER IX SUPPLEMENTARY PROVISIONS
 Article 46 (Delegation and Entrustment of Authority)
The authority of the Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism vested under this Act may be partially delegated to the Mayors/Do Governors or the heads of affiliated institutions, or entrusted to an association or relevant organization, as prescribed by Presidential Decree. In such cases, the Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism may subsidize operating expenses, including business expenses, incurred in performing entrusted duties for the association, organization, etc. <Amended on Mar. 25, 2009; Feb. 17, 2012>
 Article 46-2 (Regulatory Review)
The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism shall review the appropriateness of repeal, deregulation, maintenance, etc., of the following matters every two years (referring to the period ending on the day immediately before every second anniversary from the base date):
1. Standards for library facilities and materials referred to in Article 5: January 1, 2016;
2. Registration, modification of registration, etc., of nongovernmental public libraries pursuant to Article 31: January 1, 2015;
3. Registration, modification of registration, etc., of nongovernmental special libraries referred to in Article 40 (2) through (4): January 1, 2015.
[This Article Newly Inserted on Feb. 3, 2016]
 Article 46-3 (Reporting to National Assembly)
The chairperson of the Library Committee shall finalize a comprehensive plan, an execution plan for the relevant year, and the results of implementation for the previous year, and report them to the competent standing committee without delay.
[This Article Newly Inserted on Jun. 9, 2020]
 Article 47 (Administrative Fines)
(1) A person who violates Article 20 (1) shall be punished by an administrative fine not exceeding the amount equivalent to ten times the marked price of the relevant library material (where such library material is not for sale, the prime cost of the published library material in question).
(2) Administrative fines provided for in paragraph (1) shall be imposed and collected by the Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism.
[This Article Wholly Amended on Mar. 25, 2009]
 Article 48 Deleted. <Mar. 25, 2009>
ADDENDA <Act No. 8029, Oct. 4, 2006>
Article 1 (Enforcement Date)
This Act shall enter into force six months after the date of its promulgation.
Article 2 (Transitional Measures concerning Registration, etc. of Libraries)
Any library and reading center registered or reported pursuant to the former Libraries and Reading Promotion Act as at the time this Act enters into force shall be deemed registered or reported pursuant to this Act.
Article 3 (Transitional Measures concerning Library Association, etc.)
Any association, etc. established pursuant to Article 14 of the former Libraries and Reading Promotion Act as at the time this Act enters into force shall be deemed an organization established pursuant to this Act: Provided, That guidance and supervision over the "Federation of Saemaul Mini-Libraries" shall be executed by the Minister of Government Administration and Home Affairs in consultation with the Minister of Culture and Tourism.
Article 4 (Transitional Measures concerning Administrative Disposition, etc.)
Registrations executed by administrative agencies, such as the Minister of Culture and Tourism, acts or various kinds of reports by other administrative agencies, or acts towards other administrative agencies pursuant to the former provisions as at the time this Act enters into force shall be deemed acts by administrative agencies or acts towards administrative agencies pursuant to this Act.
Article 5 Omitted.
Article 6 (Relationship with Other Statutes)
Where the Libraries and Reading Promotion Act has been cited by other statutes as at the time this Act enters into force, the Library Act shall be deemed cited.
ADDENDA <Act No. 8069, Dec. 20, 2006>
Article 1 (Enforcement Date)
This Act shall enter into force on January 1, 2007. (Proviso Omitted.)
Articles 2 through 9 Omitted.
ADDENDA <Act No. 9528, Mar. 25, 2009>
(1) (Enforcement Date) This Act shall enter into force six months after the date of its promulgation.
(2) (Transitional Measures concerning Small Libraries) A library registered or reported as at the time this Act enters into force shall be deemed a small library under the amended provisions of subparagraph 4 (a) of Article 2.
ADDENDUM <Act No. 10558, Apr. 5, 2011>
This Act shall enter into force three months after the date of its promulgation.
ADDENDA <Act No. 11310, Feb. 17, 2012>
Article 1 (Enforcement Date)
This Act shall enter into force six months after the date of its promulgation.
Article 2 Omitted.
ADDENDA <Act No. 13222, Mar. 27, 2015>
Article 1 (Enforcement Date)
This Act shall enter into force on the date of its promulgation.
Article 2 Omitted.
ADDENDUM <Act No. 13960, Feb. 3, 2016>
This Act shall enter into force six months after the date of its promulgation: Provided, That the amended provisions of Articles 32 and 46-2 shall enter into force on the date of its promulgation.
ADDENDUM <Act No. 15167, Dec. 12, 2017>
This Act shall enter into force three months after the date of its promulgation.
ADDENDUM <Act No. 16685, Dec. 3, 2019>
This Act shall enter into force six months after the date of its promulgation.
ADDENDA <Act No. 17402, Jun. 9, 2020>
Article 1 (Enforcement Date)
This Act shall enter into force six months after the date of its promulgation.
Article 2 (Applicability to Reporting to National Assembly)
The amended provisions of Article 46-3 shall begin to apply from the first comprehensive plan and execution plan formulated after this Act enters into force.