San Antonio's literary landscape is set to temporarily shift with Kathy Donellan stepping in as Interim Library Director. The City Manager, Erik Walsh, in tandem with the Public Library Board of Trustees, announced her appointment yesterday, indicating a transition period for the San Antonio Public Library starting March 2. Always prepared, the Public Library Board of Trustees made the decision during a special meeting held at Central Library.
Following Ramiro S. Salazar's impending retirement, after 19 years at the helm, Kathy Donellan, boasting more than a quarter-century in municipal government, will assume leadership during the search for a permanent successor. It was stated by Walsh in a special meeting that, "Kathy Donellan has the experience and fortitude to step seamlessly into the Interim Director position at the San Antonio Public Library." With her extensive background, including a 15-year executive team stint for the Library, she is expected to fill in the big shoes left by Salazar with both intent and precision.
A career rooted in public service, Donellan's notable track record spans over 27 years. Beginning as a Fiscal Administrator, she climbed the ladder to become Interim Assistant Director in 2009, and not long after, the Assistant Director role was hers in 2011. She also expanded her expertise working for the City of Austin for 9 years, presiding over roles in the Controller’s Office, City Manager’s Office, and the Budget Office.
"The Board is prepared and energized for this next chapter of leadership for the Library," Board Chair Juspreet Kaur was noted saying in an announcement. According to the San Antonio Government website, the Board of Trustees approach this leadership transition with readiness and anticipation, despite filling Salazar's role being no small feat.
As part of the library leadership succession plan, the Board of Trustees also appointed members to an Executive Search Committee, charged with orchestrating the hunt for Salazar’s successor. The committee, inclusive of Library Trustees, the Assistant City Manager, and a community representative, gears up to launch a nationwide search, with options for both internal and external candidates. Salazar's retirement followed a legacy networked by growth and innovation within the Library, influencing the opening of new locations and introduction of a plethora of programs and resources. The search for the new Library Director is expected to run for approximately nine months, aiming to find a leader who can extend such a legacy.
