National Library on high alert over cyber attacks

WALES’ digital treasures, viewed 1.5 billion times, face a threat similar to a “catastrophic” cyber attack that left part of the British Library's website offline for two years.

- CHRIS HAINES

The National Library of Wales, Aberystwyth

The stark warning came from Rhodri Llwyd Morgan - the National Library of Wales’ chief executive - during a Senedd committee hearing.

Cyber security is taking a “great deal” of the national library's focus, Dr Llwyd Morgan told the culture committee, adding significant additional investment is a priority.

The chief librarian said: “You'll remember that the British Library suffered a catastrophic attack... two years ago.

“Their website still isn’t back up and running. The British Library doesn’t have the ability to provide an electronic legal deposit service for its users in London.”

Dr Llwyd Morgan pointed out the service is now available in Aberystwyth and Cardiff as he welcomed extra Welsh Government funding to strengthen digital infrastructure.