News Summary
The Atlanta-Fulton Public Library Foundation is undergoing significant changes with a new board of directors. Jeff Steely takes the helm as chair, alongside vice-chair Michelle Taylor Willis. Several new board members join, bringing diverse expertise to enhance library services. The Foundation also honors former volunteers, ensuring their ongoing involvement. These changes aim to strengthen the library’s role in the Atlanta community and promote literacy and resource access for all.
Exciting Changes at the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library Foundation!
In the thriving city of Atlanta, there’s some buzz brewing at the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library Foundation! Recently, the Foundation announced a fresh lineup for its board of directors, and it’s certainly making waves in the community.
New Faces in Leadership
The Foundation has appointed Jeff Steely as the new chair of the board. Steely isn’t just any chair; he’s the Dean of Libraries at Georgia State University and carries the important role of president for the Association of Southeastern Research Libraries. That’s quite a resume!
Meanwhile, the newly minted vice-chair of the board is Michelle Taylor Willis. You might recognize her name from the popular “According to Michelle” TV show and radio segment. Michelle is not only a media executive but also an award-winning influencer, making her a real catch for the Foundation!
Welcoming New Board Members
But it doesn’t stop there! The board is also welcoming several new members: Jackie Edwards, Jessica Gellerstedt, Beverly Rice, Blythe Keeler Robinson, and Matt Westmoreland. These individuals bring a diverse range of experience and expertise to the table, which will undoubtedly enrich the board’s perspectives and initiatives.
Recognizing Past Contributions
As part of this transition, the Foundation is taking a moment to celebrate the contributions of its long-term volunteers whose tenures have come to an end. Though they are stepping back from active board roles, they will continue to play a vital part in the Foundation’s journey through the emeritus board. This allows them to remain closely connected while stepping into a mentorship role. It’s a sweet farewell.
A Strong Foundation for the Future
The Atlanta-Fulton Public Library Foundation is a remarkable nonprofit organization that acts as an advocate and champion for the Fulton County Library System, which includes 34 branches. Their commitment to enhancing library services and access to resources is essential, especially in a vibrant urban environment like Atlanta.
The Legacy Continues
This strategic shift in leadership comes on the heels of a successful tenure by past chairs J. DeLano Ford and Tim Pakenham. They laid a solid foundation, and now the new board aims to build upon this legacy while ushering in a series of initiatives that will undoubtedly promote literacy and provide resources for the community.
Looking Ahead
Looking ahead, the board for 2025 is primed to showcase even more new talent with five fresh faces. Each will represent a broad range of experiences and backgrounds, reflecting the diverse needs of the Atlanta community and setting a clear path for future growth.
As the Foundation gears up for this exciting chapter, they seem well-prepared to continue their critical mission of supporting the public library system and enhancing the community’s access to knowledge and resources.
With such engaging and passionate leaders at the helm, the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library Foundation is set to create waves of positive change. Stay tuned to see how these changes will shape the future of libraries in Atlanta!
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Additional Resources
- Saporta Report
- Wikipedia: Library Foundation
- East Cobb News
- Google Search: Atlanta Fulton Public Library Foundation
- Marietta.com
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Library
- South Metro Observer
- Google News: Children’s Book Festival
- Tennessee Tribune
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
