Staff Reports | Digital Free Press
Phoenix City Manager Jeff Barton has announced Erin MacFarlane as the next library services director, effective Monday, July 29.
Ms. MacFarlane brings 26 years of experience in education and libraries the team, Phoenix City Hall officials report.
Ms. MacFarlane started her library career at the Phoenix Public Library in 2006; whereas, she spent the last 14 years in various positions at the Maricopa County Library District, most recently serving as deputy director.
During her time at Maricopa County, Ms. MacFarlane played a crucial role in establishing key community partnerships, including an award-winning program with the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office to expand library material access in county jails.
Ms. MacFarlane also works with the American Library Association and the Arizona Library Association on public policy initiatives that promote intellectual freedom and access to electronic resources for an open information society.
Ms. MacFarlane holds an undergraduate degree in education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and a master’s degree in library and information science from the University of Arizona.
Ms. MacFarlane replaces Rita Hamilton, who retired from the city in April after serving as the City Librarian for 13 years. Mitch Menchaca, the city’s arts and culture director has been serving as interim city librarian.