Exciting news out of Santa Clara (Calif.) as City Manager Deanna Santana announces that she has chosen seasoned librarian and American Library Association president Patricia “Patty” Wong as the City’s new Librarian. Wong brings so much experience, passion and heart for Library Science and what library services mean to a community. We know she is a good fit and are thrilled to have managed the recruitment on behalf of the City.
Here is what the City had to say, in a media release:
Following an extensive national search, the City of Santa Clara is excited to announce the appointment of Patricia “Patty” Wong as its next City Librarian. Ms. Wong will assume her role and responsibilities in October 2021.
Ms. Wong is currently the City Librarian for the Santa Monica’s Public Library, where she oversees the main library and four neighborhood branches. In her 37-year career, she has held positions throughout California—at Yolo County Library, Stockton-San Joaquin County Public Library, Oakland Public Library, and Berkeley Public Library. Ms. Wong, a part-time faculty member at the San Jose State University iSchool, serves as a consultant for libraries on issues related to change management, youth development and cultural diversity. Recently, Ms. Wong was inaugurated as the first Asian American librarian to serve as the President of the American Library Association — the foremost national organization providing resources to inspire library and information professionals to transform their communities through essential programs and services.
“I am thrilled to appoint and welcome Patty as the new City Librarian for the City of Santa Clara,” said City Manager Deanna Santana. “Her breadth of knowledge in libraries, together with her passion for community, are well-matched for the City as we address current critical needs related to COVID and continue to plan for future library services. Patty joins an outstanding Library Team and a community that loves, loves, loves its libraries!”
A passionate advocate for equity, diversity and inclusion, Ms. Wong has received numerous awards for her work, including the 2013 California Library Association Member of the Year, the 2012 ALA Equality Award for her mentorship of MLIS students at San Jose State University, the 2009 Woman of the Year from California State Senator Lois Wolk for her efforts to improve library access and the 2006 Joint Conference of Librarians of Color Advocacy Award.
“It was my honor to participate in the recruitment process for City Librarian,” said Steve Ricossa, Chair of the Santa Clara Library Board of Trustees. “The candidate pool was outstanding. To attract the President of the American Library Association to our city is a reflection of Santa Clara City Library’s reputation for providing award-winning programs and once again, proves that the City of Santa Clara attracts the best in the profession.”
In her new role, Ms. Wong will oversee the Central Park Library, the Mission Branch Library and the Northside Branch Library, including 42.50 full-time employees and an annual budget of approximately $11.1 million.
The City is grateful and extends a huge thank you to Cynthia Bojorquez for serving as the Acting City Librarian since September 2020, while concurrently fulfilling her duties as an Assistant City Manager and leading critical COVID-19 relief programs and services for our residents. Ms. Bojorquez’s dedication has significantly and positively impacted the Santa Clara community, as she partnered with the County of Santa Clara to provide free COVID-19 testing at City libraries and with local non-profits to feed families in need.
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