Library Director Recommended to National Museum and Library Board
Published on March 17, 2023
The White House made announcement Thursday, March 16.
SAN ANTONIO (March 17, 2023) - Yesterday, President Biden announced he will appoint San Antonio Public Library (SAPL) Director Ramiro S. Salazar to the National Museum and Library Services Board.
The National Museum and Library Services Board is an advisory body consisting of 20 presidential appointees who have proven expertise in, and/or commitment to, library or museum services. The Board advises the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), which advances, supports, and empowers America’s museums, libraries, and related organizations through grantmaking, research, and policy development.
“The leadership Ramiro has demonstrated in his tenure with the City of San Antonio is worthy of the highest praise and recognition,” said City Manager Erik Walsh. “He has been a stalwart in meeting the changing needs of our community libraries and ensuring our libraries serve our residents by promoting creative spaces for learning. We are proud of his appointment to this esteemed position on a National Board, where he can draw from his expertise and knowledge to affect policy at a national level.”
Salazar is a former President of the Public Library Association, currently serves on the Public Library Section of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions and is a frequent presenter and panelist at professional convenings.
“I'm deeply humbled by the President’s announcement,” Salazar said. “It is a great honor to receive this recognition from President Biden, and I eagerly anticipate serving on the National Museum and Library Services Board.”
Salazar has served as SAPL director since April 2005. In this role, he is responsible for the delivery of library services to more than 2 million residents. SAPL serves residents in both San Antonio and Bexar County due to an Interlocal Agreement with Bexar County to extend library services beyond the city limits.
He provides management oversight for the library system, consisting of the downtown Central Library, 29 library locations, and leads a team of over 550 employees. Before joining the San Antonio Public Library, Salazar served as Interim Assistant City Manager for the City of Dallas, Texas. Prior to that, he served as the Director of the Dallas Public Library. He also served as Director of the El Paso Public Library in Texas. He has dedicated his public service to increasing the availability of library resources and services to all segments of the community.